Welder / Fabrication Machine Operator Job

Armstrong group; Libertyville (IL); On-site; USD 33,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Armstrong World Industries in Libertyville, IL seeks a Welder/Fabrication Machine Operator to support manufacturing. You will weld, fabricate, and operate fabrication equipment, read blueprints, perform setups, inspect parts, and document quality results.

Progression is three levels, with cross-training, safety emphasis, and Lean Manufacturing involvement. You will collaborate with leadership and manufacturing teams to optimize processes and deliver quality parts on schedule.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to read tape measures and blueprints.
• Mechanical aptitude and manufacturing experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform MIG welding on steel and aluminum components.
• Read and interpret blueprints and work orders.
• Operate fabrication machinery and perform setups based on skill level.
• Inspect parts to ensure quality.
• Perform material handling and documentation.

Skills

Read blueprints

Physical dexterity

Manual handling (up to 75 lbs)

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

MIG welding equipment

CNC fabrication equipment

Job description

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Company: Armstrong World Industries

Primary location: Libertyville IL
Relocation offered: n/a
Employment status:Full-Time
Travel: less than 5 %

The estimated base salary range for this role is $24-$26 per hour.
Individual pay is based upon location, skills and expertise, experience and other relevant factors

What does it mean to work at MRK Industries, Inc., a subsidiary of Armstrong World Industries?

It means being immersed in a supportive culture that recognizes you as a key player in Armstrong's future. We are a large company with a local feel, where you will get to know and collaborate with leadership and your colleagues across the company.

By joining us, you'll have the opportunity to make the most of your potential. Alongside a competitive remuneration package, you will receive:

A benefits package including: medical, dental, prescription drug, life insurance, 401k match, long-term disability coverage, vacation and sick time, and many more.
Personal development to grow your career with us based on your strengths and interests.
A working culture that balances individual achievement with teamwork and collaboration. We draw on each other's strengths and allow for different work styles to build engagement and satisfaction to deliver results.

Department: Manufacturing

Reports To: Procurement & Logistics Supervisor

Position Summary

The Welder/Fabrication Machine Operator performs welding, metal fabrication, and machine operation to support manufacturing operations. Employees are responsible for safely producing quality parts while operating fabrication equipment, performing setups based on skill level, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. This position is structured with a three-tier progression that recognizes increasing knowledge, technical ability, and responsibility.

• Perform MIG welding and general metal fabrication.
• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and fabrication drawings.
• Operate fabrication machinery used in sheet metal manufacturing.
• Inspect parts using measuring tools to ensure quality standards are met.
• Perform material handling using forklifts, cranes, or other approved equipment.
• Complete required production and quality documentation.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance and housekeeping.
• Follow all safety, environmental, and quality procedures.
• Support Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement activities.
• Cross-train and assist in other manufacturing areas as required.

Machine Operator Progression

Level I – Machine Operator

Employees at Level I demonstrate the ability to safely operate one fabrication machine after completing required training.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate one assigned fabrication machine.
• Load and unload material.
• Perform quality inspections using measuring equipment.
• Follow standard work instructions.
• Notify supervision of equipment or quality concerns.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.

Typical Equipment

• Press Brake
• Roll Former
• Saw
• Other fabrication equipment as assigned

Level II – Multi-Machine Operator

Employees at Level II are capable of independently operating multiple fabrication machines and maintaining production flow with minimal supervision.

Additional Responsibilities

• Independently operate two or more fabrication machines.
• Perform routine tooling changes.
• Troubleshoot minor equipment issues.
• Assist with training Level I operators.
• Verify first-piece quality inspections.
• Coordinate work priorities to support production schedules.

Level III – Setup Technician / Lead Machine Operator

Employees at Level III demonstrate advanced fabrication knowledge and are capable of machine setup, program verification, and mentoring other operators.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform complete machine setups.
• Change tooling and adjust machine parameters.
• Verify machine programs and production readiness.
• Perform first article inspections.
• Train and mentor Level I and II operators.
• Troubleshoot equipment and fabrication issues.
• Recommend process improvements to increase safety, quality, and productivity.
• Support engineering during new product launches and prototype builds.

Welding Responsibilities

Regardless of machine level, employees may be assigned welding duties based on production requirements.

Welding Duties

• Perform MIG welding on steel and aluminum components.
• Prepare materials for welding.
• Grind, finish, and inspect completed welds.
• Produce welds meeting company quality standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Manufacturing or fabrication experience preferred.
• Ability to read tape measures and blueprints.
• Mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to lift up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to stand, bend, and work in a manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• MIG welding experience.
• Experience operating CNC fabrication equipment.
• Experience performing machine setups.
• Overhead crane experience.
• Lean Manufacturing or 5S experience.

Level I

Successfully operate one fabrication machine independently while meeting safety, quality, and production expectations.

Level II

Demonstrate proficiency on two or more fabrication machines, perform tooling changes, and assist with training other operators.

Level III

Demonstrate