Master Welder

XL Specialized Trailers; Manchester (IA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

XL Specialized Trailers in Manchester, Iowa is looking for a Master Welder who will execute high-caliber welds across all product lines. The successful candidate will have over 8 years of advanced MIG welding experience and must demonstrate mastery in aluminum welding.

The ideal applicant must hold a high school diploma, preferably with additional technical education or apprenticeship experience in welding. A commitment to quality craftsmanship and safety is paramount.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of progressive hands-on MIG welding experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in aluminum welding in a production manufacturing environment.
• MIG-specific certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare work by studying assembly instructions, blueprints, and parts lists.
• Execute flawless MIG weld assemblies on all metal components.
• Maintain welding equipment through preventive maintenance.

Skills

MIG welding proficiency

Aluminum welding experience

Blueprint reading

Weld quality inspection

Advanced shop math

Commitment to safety and quality

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Post-secondary technical education or apprenticeship in welding technology

Job description

Job Overview

The Master Welder is XL Specialized Trailers' highest-level individual contributor in welding, recognized for unparalleled hands-on mastery in MIG welding and minimal aluminum welding. This role focuses entirely on producing the highest quality welds in the most demanding applications across all product lines. The Master Welder applies 8 or more years of welding expertise to execute complex weld assemblies with precision and consistency, setting the standard for craftsmanship through their own work.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepares work to be accomplished by studying assembly instructions, blueprints, engineering specifications, and parts lists; gathers parts, subassemblies, tooling, and materials needed for each assignment.
• Positions and fixtures parts and subassemblies with master-level precision using templates, jigs, and measurement techniques to ensure perfect alignment prior to welding.
• Executes flawless MIG weld assemblies on all metal components, applying master-level technique across all weld positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead) and joint configurations (butt, fillet, groove, lap, T-joint).
• Performs expert-level welding, including proper fit-up, distortion control, and finishing techniques unique to fabrication.
• Performs expert-level weld correction and finishing, including precision chipping, grinding, and arc-cutting to achieve superior surface finish and dimensional accuracy.
• Operates overhead cranes and all material handling equipment with expert-level proficiency and safe work habits.
• Verifies specifications by measuring completed weldments and conducting thorough self-inspection against dimensional tolerances and visual weld quality standards.
• Independently resolves the most complex assembly and weld quality problems; applies advanced knowledge to determine root cause and corrective actions; notifies supervisor when additional resources are required.
• Keeps all welding equipment operational by completing preventive maintenance requirements and following operating procedures; reports equipment issues to supervisor promptly.
• Documents all production, quality, and time records accurately and completely.
• Maintains a safe and clean working environment by complying with all procedures, rules, and regulations; wears proper personal protective equipment at all times.
• Identifies and anticipates safety and health concerns by surveying environmental, operational, and occupational conditions and reporting hazards to the supervisor.
• Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.

Ancillary Duties

• Perform any other tasks assigned to support and improve the overall operations of XL Specialized Trailers.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None

Supervision Received

Works under general supervision. The employee is responsible for planning and carrying out their own welding assignments, keeping the supervisor informed of progress and any potential problems or future implications.

Licensing and Certification

• MIG-specific certifications preferred, not required.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; post-secondary technical education or apprenticeship in welding technology preferred.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive hands‑on MIG welding experience in a manufacturing environment, with a consistent record of mastery‑level performance.
• Demonstrated mastery of all product lines manufactured by XL Specialized Trailers.
• Proven aluminum welding experience in a production manufacturing environment.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Master-level proficiency with MIG (GMAW) welding on carbon steel, structural steel, and all other metals used in production at XL Specialized Trailers.
• Expert-level aluminum welding proficiency, including proper fit-up, preheat considerations, wire selection (ER4043/ER5356), shielding gas management (100% Argon), and distortion control unique to aluminum.
• Advanced mastery of shop math, including geometry and applied calculations for layout, fitment, and weld shrinkage compensation.
• Expert ability to read and interpret complex engineering blueprints, weld symbols (AWS A2.4), specifications, and technical procedures.
• Exceptional eye for quality and pride in craftsmanship; consistently holds own work to the highest standards of weld integrity and appearance.
• Advanced ability to diagnose complex weld defects (porosity, cracking, undercut, distortion) and implement effective corrective actions on own work.
• Deep commitment to company values, safety culture, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to accurately complete production, quality, and time documentation.

Physical Demands

• Extended periods of standing throughout the shift.
• Frequent crouching, kneeling, bending, and stooping in all weld positions.
• Occasional ascending/descending stairs or ladders.
• Occasional pushing or pulling of components and equipment.
• Ability to routinely lift 50 lbs. and occasionally up to 100 lbs.

Work Environment

Work is primarily performed indoors in a manufacturing environment. The Master Welder is regularly exposed to welding arc, heat, fumes, and metal dust. Proper PPE, including a welding helmet, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed footwear, is required at all times on the shop floor.

XL Specialized Trailers is an Equal Opportunity Employer including disability/veteran