Fabricator Welding Inspector

Guardian Rail; Grand Island (NE); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Guardian Rail in Grand Island, Nebraska is searching for a Fabricator/Welding Inspector. This role encompasses skilled welding and fabrication of railcars, while ensuring that all welds comply with industry standards and safety regulations.

Responsibilities include fabricating components per specifications, performing inspections of welds, and maintaining safety practices. Candidates with a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) credential and expertise in various welding techniques are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• Must have CWI certification.
• Experience in railcar welding and fabrication is preferred.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate and assemble metal components for railcars.
• Perform welding inspections and maintain records.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

Skills

Proficient in MIG, TIG, Stick welding

Strong fabrication skills

Attention to detail

Knowledge of AWS and AAR standards

Education

Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)

Tools

Welding equipment

Fabrication equipment

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: Grand Island Main Shop - Grand Island, NE 68803. Guardian Rail, headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, is proud to operate one of the country's leading freight rail services and transportation companies with a large network of freight and tank car repair facilities, a nationwide network of running repair agents, and a rail services division that operates short line railroads and contract switching and transloading sites. We are currently seeking a Fabricator/Welding Inspector for our Grand Island repair facility.

The Fabricator / Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) is responsible for performing skilled welding and fabrication work on railcars and related components while ensuring all welds meet industry codes, safety standards, and company quality requirements. This dual‑role position combines hands‑on fabrication work with certified welding inspection responsibilities to ensure compliance with AWS and AAR standards.

Fabrication Duties

• Fabricate, fit, and assemble metal components for railcars according to engineering drawings, blueprints, or specifications.
• Use various welding techniques (MIG, TIG, Stick) and cutting tools (oxy‑acetylene, plasma) to perform structural and cosmetic repairs.
• Operate fabrication equipment including grinders, press brake, shears, torches, and drill presses.
• Ensure all work meets safety, dimensional, and quality requirements.

Welding Inspection Duties

• Perform visual and dimensional inspections of welds on railcar components to ensure conformance with AWS D1.1, AAR, and other applicable codes.
• Maintain inspection records and generate required reports on welding quality and conformance.
• Conduct welder performance qualification tests and monitor welders for procedure compliance.
• Interpret and apply welding symbols and standards from blueprints and technical documents.

General Duties

• Collaborate with supervisors, engineers, and quality personnel to address weld quality concerns.
• Adhere to company and industry safety practices at all times.
• Assist with training and mentoring less experienced welders and fabricators.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of work area and tools.