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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Metal Worker

💰 $22 - $40+ per hour

ManufacturingSkilled TradesConstruction

🎯 Role Definition

As a Metal Worker, you are the artisan and engineer at the heart of production and construction. You will be tasked with transforming raw metal materials into precise components, complex structures, and high-quality finished products. This role is foundational to the success of our projects, requiring a hands-on approach to cutting, shaping, joining, and finishing metal according to exacting blueprints and quality standards. You will be a vital member of a dynamic, collaborative team, responsible for bringing intricate designs from paper to physical form with skill and precision.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Apprentice Metal Worker or Welder
  • Trade School or Vocational Program Graduate
  • General Laborer in a Manufacturing/Construction Environment

Advancement To:

  • Lead Metal Worker / Fabrication Foreman
  • Welding Supervisor or Manager
  • Quality Control Inspector / NDT Technician
  • CNC Programmer / Operator

Lateral Moves:

  • Industrial Maintenance Technician
  • CAD Drafter / Designer
  • Project Estimator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Interpret and analyze complex blueprints, engineering drawings, sketches, and schematics to determine project requirements and fabrication sequencing.
  • Accurately measure, mark, and scribe dimensions and reference points on metal stock or workpieces for precise cutting and assembly.
  • Set up, calibrate, and operate a wide range of metal fabrication machinery, including press brakes, shears, plate rollers, band saws, and ironworkers.
  • Perform various welding processes such as MIG (GMAW), TIG (GTAW), and Stick (SMAW) on diverse materials like carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
  • Execute precise cutting of metal materials using tools like plasma cutters, oxy-acetylene torches, and various industrial saws, ensuring clean edges and adherence to dimensions.
  • Grind, sand, deburr, and polish metal components and assemblies to remove sharp edges, smooth welds, and prepare surfaces for finishing.
  • Skillfully assemble and fit metal parts and components into final structures, tack-welding them into position before final welding or fastening.
  • Conduct rigorous in-process and final quality control inspections using precision measuring instruments like calipers, micrometers, and tape measures to ensure all work meets tight tolerances.
  • Operate material handling equipment, such as forklifts, overhead cranes, and jib cranes, to safely move raw materials and finished products.
  • Select appropriate metal gauges, types, and grades based on project specifications, environmental factors, and structural requirements.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve fabrication issues, identifying and correcting defects in materials or workmanship to prevent project delays.
  • Perform routine and preventative maintenance on machinery, tools, and equipment to ensure they remain in safe and optimal working condition.
  • Adhere strictly to all company and OSHA safety protocols, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Repair, modify, or refurbish existing metal structures and equipment by cutting, welding, and fitting new components as needed.
  • Prepare surfaces and apply finishes such as paint, powder coating, or galvanization to protect products from corrosion and meet aesthetic standards.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of work performed, including material usage, time logs, and quality inspection reports.
  • Manage inventory of raw materials and consumables for assigned projects, communicating needs to the supply chain team to avoid shortages.
  • Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and other tradespeople to ensure seamless project execution and resolve design or fabrication challenges.
  • Calibrate welding machines and fabrication equipment to achieve specific, high-quality results tailored to each project's material and design.
  • Develop and execute layout plans directly from blueprints onto the shop floor or workpiece, ensuring all components are positioned correctly for assembly.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in the training and mentorship of apprentice-level metal workers, sharing knowledge on fabrication techniques and safety procedures.
  • Actively participate in daily safety meetings and toolbox talks, contributing to a culture of continuous safety awareness and improvement.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area to prevent accidents, improve workflow, and uphold professional standards.
  • Provide constructive feedback and suggestions for process improvements to enhance quality, increase productivity, and reduce waste.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Blueprint and Schematic Reading: Ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and plans.
  • Welding Proficiency: Expertise in MIG, TIG, and Stick welding on various metals and thicknesses.
  • Metal Fabrication: Skilled operation of press brakes, shears, rollers, and other forming equipment.
  • Precision Measurement: Proficient use of calipers, micrometers, protractors, and tape measures to ensure accuracy.
  • Cutting Techniques: Competency with plasma cutters, oxy-fuel torches, and industrial saws.
  • Grinding and Finishing: Ability to achieve specified surface finishes using grinders, sanders, and polishing tools.
  • Layout and Fitting: Skill in marking, laying out, and fitting components for accurate assembly.
  • Knowledge of Metals: Understanding of the properties and weldability of different metals (steel, aluminum, stainless, etc.).
  • Equipment Maintenance: Basic ability to troubleshoot and maintain fabrication machinery and tools.
  • Safety Protocols: Deep understanding of OSHA standards and safe work practices in an industrial setting.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in all aspects of work, from measurement to finishing.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to identify issues, analyze root causes, and implement effective solutions during fabrication.
  • Strong Work Ethic: Reliable, motivated, and dedicated to producing high-quality work in a timely manner.
  • Teamwork and Communication: Capable of collaborating effectively with team members and communicating technical information clearly.
  • Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long periods, lift heavy materials, and work in various physical positions.
  • Adaptability: Flexible and able to switch between different tasks and projects as production needs change.
  • Time Management: Skilled at prioritizing tasks and managing workload to meet project deadlines.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate or Associate's Degree from a vocational school or community college in Welding Technology, Metal Fabrication, or a related skilled trade.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Welding Technology
  • Metal Fabrication
  • Industrial Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-5+ years of hands-on experience in a professional metal fabrication, manufacturing, or structural steel environment.

Preferred:

  • AWS, CWB, or other relevant welding certifications are highly desirable. Experience in custom architectural metalwork, structural steel erection, or pressure vessel fabrication is a significant asset.
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