Production Pipe Welder

McKenney's, Inc.; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

McKenney's, Inc. is seeking a Production Welder to perform high-quality welding and fabrication in a fast-paced shop.

You will execute MIG and TIG welds, work with carbon steel and stainless steel, and interpret detailed drawings to assemble piping spools and structural components for commercial, industrial, and high-tech systems. The role requires at least two years of production welding experience, the ability to read blueprints, and adherence to safety standards.

Qualifications

• Two years of production welding experience, preferably in mechanical systems, industrial piping, or structural fabrication.
• Ability to pass welding qualification tests (ASME Section IX, AWS D1.1).
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, isometrics, and GD&T.
• Solid math skills for measurements and material calculations.
• Proficient in using shop tools and material handling equipment.

Responsibilities

• Perform welding and fabrication using GMAW/MIG, GTAW/TIG.
• Weld various materials including carbon steel and stainless steel.
• Fit, tack, and weld complex assemblies per specifications and dimensions.
• Read blueprints and welding symbols to determine layout and requirements.
• Prepare materials via cutting, grinding, deburring, and positioning.

Skills

Welding proficiency

Certifications (ASME IX, AWS D1.1)

Reading blueprints & isometrics

Mathematics fundamentals

Tool handling (plasma cutters, torches

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Vocational welding/fabrication program

Tools

Overhead cranes

Forklifts (certified)

Job description

The Production Welder is responsible for performing high-quality welding and fabrication tasks in a fast-paced shop environment. This role requires proficiency in multiple welding processes, the ability to accurately interpret technical drawings, and strict adherence to industry codes (such as AWS and ASME) and safety standards. The primary focus is on the efficient fabrication of piping spools, structural supports, and other components used in commercial, industrial, and high-tech mechanical systems.

Key Responsibilities

Welding and Fabrication

• Perform Welding Operations: Execute various welding techniques, including but not limited to Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG) and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG)
• Material Expertise: Weld a variety of materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloys, using appropriate procedures and filler metals
• Component Assembly: Fit, tack, and weld complex assemblies (e.g., pipe spools, equipment skids, structural frames) according to detailed specifications and dimensions
• Blueprint Interpretation: Read and accurately interpret blueprints, schematics, welding symbols, and written specifications to determine the proper layout and welding requirements
• Material Preparation: Prepare materials for welding by cutting, grinding, deburring, and positioning components using manual and automated tools (e.g., plasma cutters, oxy‑acetylene torches, grinders, pipe bevelers)

Quality and Safety

• Quality Control: Inspect finished welds to ensure they meet quality standards, tolerance requirements, and code specifications (e.g., penetration, bead size, structural integrity)
• Safety Compliance: Strictly adhere to all company and OSHA safety policies, including the use of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and proper handling of hazardous materials and hot work
• Troubleshooting: Identify and correct welding defects (e.g., porosity, undercut, lack of fusion) and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions

Operations

• Productivity: Maintain high levels of productivity and efficiency while ensuring the quality of work is not compromised
• Documentation: Complete required production logs, and time sheets accurately
• Collaboration: Work effectively with fitters, fabricators, and the shop management team to prioritize tasks and meet production deadlines

Required Qualifications

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Completion of an accredited welding or fabrication vocational program is highly preferred
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in production welding, preferably in mechanical systems, industrial piping, or structural fabrication

Skills And Certifications

• Welding Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to perform high-quality welds in all positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, overhead)
• Certifications: Current or ability to pass welding qualification tests in relevant procedures (e.g., ASME Section IX for pipe, AWS D1.1 for structural steel). Experience with 6G pipe welding is a significant asset
• Technical Skills: Proficient in reading standard fabrication drawings, isometric drawings, and understanding Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles
• Math Skills: Strong basic mathematical skills necessary for measurement, calculation of material requirements, and layout
• Tool Usage: Expertise in operating standard shop tools, measuring devices (tape measures, calipers, squares), and material handling equipment (overhead cranes, forklifts – certification preferred)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, crouch, and kneel for extended periods
• Ability to lift, push, and pull objects weighing up to 50 pounds frequently
• Manual dexterity required for manipulating welding torches, hand tools, and materials
• Vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus
• Must be able to work in an environment with exposure to noise, heat, sparks, and fumes, utilizing appropriate PPE

Moving Safety Forward, our initiative for continuous improvements in our safety culture, reminds us that we are on a journey toward a zero-incident culture. In all we do, we must work to build a partnership with our employees, customers and business associates that empowers them all with the ability to do their jobs safely.

McKenney's is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

McKenney’s is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to workforce diversity. Qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to age, color, religion, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, or gender identity. McKenney’s is a smoke-free and drug-free workplace.