Lead Welder & Shop Lead: Structural Steel Fabrication

Thompson Metal Fab, Inc. (TMF); Vancouver (WA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Job summary

Thompson Metal Fab, Inc. (TMF) is seeking an experienced Weld Leadman to support the Welding Foreman and guide day-to-day fabrication activities in our structural steel shop. This hands-on, journeyman-level role coordinates workflow, trains welders, maintains quality, and ensures safe, efficient operations.

The ideal candidate is a skilled fabricator who leads by example and upholds the highest standards of craftsmanship and professionalism in a demanding shop environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of heavy fabrication experience.
• Fab-1 classification (or higher)
• Forklift, scissor lift, boom lift, rigging and overhead crane operation
• Proficient in FCAW, GMAW, SMAW and SAW welding processes
• Strong communication and leadership to guide welders

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced welding tasks as needed, including FCM and RT-quality welds.
• Identify complex weldments, equipment needs, and risks; coordinate with Welding Foreman and production teams.
• Train, mentor, and support welding personnel in proper techniques and procedures.
• Maintain organized work areas and ensure efficient sequencing of tasks.
• Monitor work quality and elevate issues to QC, Mechanics, or Welding Foreman.
• Ensure compliance with welding procedures, quality standards, and safety policies.
• Coordinate with welding management, quality, and production departments.
• Maintain documentation including welder IDs, consumable logs, and JCDs.
• Conduct daily shift-to-shift turnover communication.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Job description

Thompson Metal Fab, Inc. (TMF) is seeking an experienced Weld Leadman to support the Welding Foreman and guide day-to-day fabrication activities in our structural steel shop. This hands-on, journeyman-level role coordinates workflow, trains welders, maintains quality, and ensures safe, efficient operations.

The ideal candidate is a skilled fabricator who leads by example and upholds the highest standards of craftsmanship and professionalism in a demanding shop environment.