Robotic Welder

Stark Aerospace; Columbus (MS); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Stark Aerospace in Columbus, Mississippi, is seeking an experienced robotic welding technician to operate and maintain advanced welding equipment as well as support production efforts. Candidates must have a strong understanding of welding processes and 3+ years of related experience, ideally in aerospace or defense environments.

The role requires interpreting technical drawings and supporting new product introductions. Applicants should be capable of working independently while maintaining a safe and compliant work area.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in robotic welding or automated manufacturing.
• Hands-on experience with Fanuc robotic systems.
• Experience with aerospace-grade materials.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain robotic welding cells.
• Assist with programming and optimizing welding programs.
• Read and interpret aerospace technical drawings.

Skills

Robotic welding

Programming Fanuc robotic systems

Interpreting engineering drawings

Mechanical aptitude

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical training in welding or robotics

Tools

Fanuc robotic systems

Fronius welding systems

Miller welding systems

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Operate, setup, troubleshoot, and maintain robotic welding cells used in the production of aerospace and defense hardware.
• Assist with programming, editing, and optimizing Fanuc robotic welding programs to improve weld quality, cycle time, and repeatability.
• Operate and support advanced welding equipment including Fronius and Miller welding systems.
• Read and interpret aerospace technical drawings, weld symbols, specifications, and work instructions to ensure compliance with engineering requirements.
• Perform weld setup verification, fit‑up inspections, and in‑process quality checks to ensure compliance with customer and internal standards.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Production teams to resolve welding and automation‑related issues.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) efforts including fixture validation, process development, and robotic weld path optimization.
• Troubleshoot robotic cell issues including torch alignment, wire feed problems, welding parameters, and robot faults to minimize downtime.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety‑compliant work area while following all aerospace manufacturing and welding procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in robotic welding, automated manufacturing, or aerospace/defense production environments.
• Hands‑on experience with Fanuc robotic systems including basic programming, teach pendant operation, and troubleshooting.
• Experience operating Fronius and/or Miller welding systems is strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of welding processes including MIG/GMAW, fixturing, weld sequencing, and distortion control.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, weld symbols, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience working with aerospace‑grade materials including aluminum, steel, and stainless steels.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with proven troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills.
• Capable of working independently and prioritizing tasks in a fast‑paced, quality‑focused environment.

Education & Certifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical training, trade school, or certification in welding, robotics, automation, or manufacturing technology preferred.
• AWS welding certifications and/or Fanuc robotics certifications are a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand for extended periods (10+ hours per shift).
• Ability to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, and manual dexterity required.
• Visual acuity to inspect weld quality and read technical drawings.
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including welding hood, safety glasses, steel‑toe boots, gloves, and hearing protection as required.