Welder Co-Op

Rodney Hunt; Orange (MA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Rodney Hunt Company in Orange, MA is seeking a hands-on Welding Co-op for students early in their technical careers. You will gain real-world experience welding gates, frames, and structural components, while learning blueprint reading, fabrication, and safety practices in a active shop environment.

Under supervision you will perform MIG, TIG, and Stick welds on various materials, prepare parts, inspect welds, read drawings, and support material handling.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Enrolled in a technical school, trade program, or college with a focus on welding or metal fabrication.
• Basic knowledge of MIG and Stick welding; TIG experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with welding safety practices and PPE usage.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a physically active environment.
• Non‑DOT physical exam required to ensure safe performance of essential job functions.
• Strong interest in learning industrial welding and fabrication techniques.

Responsibilities

• Assist with MIG, TIG, and Stick welding on various metals under supervision.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and welding symbols.
• Support fabrication of gate structures and assemblies per technical specs.
• Prepare metal parts for welding by grinding, cutting, and cleaning.
• Participate in weld inspection for quality and dimensional accuracy.
• Use measuring tools to verify part dimensions.
• Perform basic weld repairs under guidance.
• Operate welding equipment safely and maintain a clean work area with 5S and PPE.
• Assist with material handling and movement of large assemblies using cranes or forklifts.

Skills

MIG welding

TIG welding

Stick welding

Blueprint reading

Safety practices

Physical stamina

Non‑DOT physical

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Enrolled in technical school

Job description

Job Overview:

This hands‑on opportunity is ideal for students, early in their career pursuing technical education in welding or metal fabrication. As a Co‑op, you’ll gain real‑world experience welding gates, frames, and structural components used in water control systems. You’ll work alongside experienced professionals and learn to weld a variety of materials including carbon steel, stainless steel, and cast iron, all while developing your skills in blueprint reading, fabrication, and safety practices. This role is designed to support your growth while contributing meaningfully to our production goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with MIG, TIG, and Stick welding on stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, and cast‑iron components under supervision.
• Learn to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and welding symbols.
• Support fabrication of gate structures and assemblies according to technical specifications.
• Prepare metal parts for welding by grinding, cutting, and cleaning.
• Participate in inspection of welds for quality and dimensional accuracy.
• Use measuring tools (tape measure, calipers, squares) to verify part dimensions.
• Perform basic weld repairs under guidance.
• Operate manual or semi‑automatic welding equipment safely.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area following 5S and safety standards.
• Follow company safety procedures and wear appropriate PPE.
• Assist with material handling and movement of large assemblies using cranes or forklifts.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent
• Must be enrolled in a technical school, trade program, or college with a focus on welding, metal fabrication, or similar field.
• Basic knowledge of MIG and Stick welding; TIG experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with welding safety practices and PPE usage.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a physically active environment.
• Successful completion of a Non‑DOT physical exam to ensure the employee can safely perform essential job functions.
• Strong interest in learning industrial welding and fabrication techniques.

Preferred:

• Prior hands‑on experience in a shop or fabrication setting (school projects or internships).
• Exposure to blueprint reading and welding symbols.
• Interest in water control systems or heavy steel fabrication.
• Willingness to learn rigging and crane operation.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

• Regular exposure to welding fumes, sparks, and hot materials.
• Required to stand, bend, and lift for extended periods.
• Rotating schedule, working on a part‑time basis
• Work is performed indoors in a shop environment; it may involve occasional outdoor tasks.
• You must wear PPE including a welding helmet, gloves, steel‑toed boots, and hearing protection.