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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Fence Welder

💰 $45,000 - $75,000

Skilled TradesConstructionWeldingFabrication

🎯 Role Definition

This role requires a skilled and dedicated Fence Welder to join our dynamic team. In this critical role, you will be the artisan and technician responsible for fabricating, installing, and repairing high-quality metal fences and gates. You will work with a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and ornamental iron, transforming raw materials into secure and aesthetically pleasing structures. The ideal candidate is a hands-on professional with a strong work ethic, a keen eye for detail, and a commitment to safety and craftsmanship. This position offers the opportunity to work both in a workshop setting and on-site, directly contributing to the successful completion of residential, commercial, and industrial projects.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Welder's Helper / Apprentice
  • General Construction Laborer
  • Vocational or Trade School Graduate (Welding Program)

Advancement To:

  • Lead Welder / Senior Fabricator
  • Shop Foreman or Supervisor
  • Project Manager
  • Business Owner / Contractor

Lateral Moves:

  • Structural Welder
  • Custom Metal Fabricator / Metal Artist
  • Pipefitter

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Fabricate and weld metal components for various fence systems, including chain link, ornamental iron, aluminum, and custom-designed gates.
  • Perform high-quality on-site welding for fence installation, modifications, and complex repairs, ensuring structural integrity and a clean finish.
  • Read and accurately interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings to determine project specifications and material requirements.
  • Set up, operate, and maintain a range of welding equipment, with a primary focus on MIG (GMAW) and Stick (SMAW) welding processes.
  • Precisely measure, cut, bend, and shape metal components using tools such as plasma cutters, chop saws, band saws, and grinders.
  • Install fence posts, panels, rails, and gate systems according to layout plans, ensuring they are plumb, level, and secure.
  • Grind, sand, and finish welded surfaces to achieve a smooth, professional, and aesthetically pleasing appearance ready for coating or painting.
  • Conduct thorough quality control checks on all welds and finished fabrications to ensure they meet stringent company and industry standards.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve fabrication and installation challenges effectively as they arise in the shop or on the job site.
  • Prepare metal surfaces for welding by cleaning, degreasing, and removing rust or scale to ensure a strong, clean weld.
  • Operate material handling equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and overhead cranes to move heavy materials safely.
  • Work efficiently and independently to meet project deadlines while also collaborating effectively within a team environment.
  • Calculate material dimensions and quantities needed for fabrication projects to minimize waste and ensure accuracy.
  • Perform layout and fitting of metal parts prior to welding, ensuring correct alignment and gap tolerance.
  • Adhere strictly to all OSHA and company safety protocols, including the consistent use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Secondary Functions

  • Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on welding equipment, power tools, and company vehicles to ensure operational readiness.
  • Contribute to a culture of safety by actively participating in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and identifying potential job site hazards.
  • Assist in training and mentoring apprentice welders or general laborers, sharing knowledge and best practices.
  • Maintain accurate daily logs of work performed, materials used, and hours logged for precise project tracking and client billing.
  • Communicate professionally with project managers, foremen, and occasionally clients to provide project updates and clarify requirements.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, both in the fabrication shop and at external job sites.
  • Assist with the loading and unloading of materials, tools, and equipment onto company vehicles for transport to and from job sites.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Welding Proficiency: Demonstrated expertise in MIG (GMAW) welding on steel and aluminum; proficiency in Stick (SMAW) is highly valued.
  • Blueprint Interpretation: The ability to read, understand, and execute work based on technical drawings, blueprints, and project plans.
  • Fabrication Tools: Skilled in the safe operation of grinders, plasma cutters, metal saws, drills, and various other power and hand tools.
  • Metal Knowledge: Strong understanding of the properties of different metals (mild steel, aluminum, wrought iron) and how they react to welding and finishing.
  • Precision Measurement: Competency with tape measures, squares, levels, and calipers to ensure accurate cuts and assembly.
  • Layout and Fitting: Ability to lay out and fit components accurately before welding.
  • Valid Driver's License: A valid driver's license and a clean driving record are often required for traveling to job sites.
  • Equipment Operation: Experience operating a forklift or other material handling equipment is a significant plus.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to ensure all welds are strong, clean, and all components are perfectly aligned and finished.
  • Strong Work Ethic: Reliable, punctual, and motivated to complete tasks efficiently and to a high standard.
  • Problem-Solving: The ability to think critically and find practical solutions to unexpected issues during fabrication or installation.
  • Physical Stamina: Capable of lifting heavy materials (50-75 lbs), working on your feet for extended periods, and performing in various weather conditions.
  • Safety Consciousness: A deep commitment to maintaining a safe work environment for oneself and the entire team.
  • Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly with team members, supervisors, and other trades on a job site.
  • Time Management: Skilled at prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively to meet project deadlines.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate or Diploma from a vocational school or trade school in Welding Technology.
  • American Welding Society (AWS) certification (e.g., D1.1, D1.2) is highly desirable.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Welding Technology
  • Metal Fabrication

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-5+ years of professional experience in a welding and fabrication role.

Preferred:

  • Demonstrable experience specifically in fence, gate, and/or railing fabrication and installation.
  • Experience with ornamental ironwork and custom fabrication projects.
  • A portfolio of past projects showcasing craftsmanship and quality of work.
  • Field experience working on active construction sites.
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