Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Journeyman Welder

🎯 Role Definition

As a Journeyman Welder, you are the backbone of our fabrication and repair operations. You will be responsible for joining, surfacing, and fabricating metal components and assemblies using advanced welding processes. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, a deep understanding of metallurgy, and the ability to interpret complex technical drawings. You will work both independently and as part of a collaborative team to deliver high-quality workmanship that meets or exceeds industry codes, safety standards, and client specifications. Your expertise will be critical in ensuring the structural integrity and longevity of our projects, from initial layout to final inspection.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Welder Apprentice
Welding School Graduate
Fabricator

Advancement To:

Lead Welder / Welding Foreman
Certified Welding Inspector (CWI)
Shop Supervisor / Manager

Lateral Moves:

Pipefitter
Boilermaker
Millwright

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Execute high-quality welds using various processes, including Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW/Stick), and Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW).
Read, interpret, and work from complex engineering blueprints, technical drawings, and Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) to determine project requirements.
Perform precise layout, fitting, and tack welding of metal components onto structures according to specifications prior to the final welding process.
Fabricate, assemble, and repair metal parts and equipment for various structural, piping, and mechanical systems.
Operate and maintain a wide range of metalworking tools, including grinders, plasma cutters, oxy-acetylene torches, and metal shears.
Conduct visual and in-process inspections of welds to ensure they meet stringent quality standards, code requirements, and project specifications.
Identify and perform necessary weld repairs, employing techniques such as grinding, gouging, and re-welding to correct defects and imperfections.
Set up, calibrate, and troubleshoot welding machines and related equipment to ensure optimal performance and weld quality.
Select appropriate filler metals, electrodes, and shielding gases based on the properties of the base metals and application requirements.
Calculate dimensions, tolerances, and material requirements using advanced math skills and precision measuring instruments like calipers and micrometers.
Prepare metal surfaces for welding by cleaning, grinding, or cutting to ensure a proper and durable bond.
Perform post-weld cleaning and finishing operations to prepare components for painting, coating, or final assembly.
Adhere strictly to all company safety protocols, OSHA regulations, and job site safety plans, including the consistent use of all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Operate material handling equipment, such as forklifts and overhead cranes, to safely move materials and large assemblies within the facility.
Repair worn or damaged machinery and equipment parts by welding, building up, and resurfacing components to restore them to full functionality.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc repair and fabrication requests as they arise in the shop or field.
Contribute to the organization's continuous improvement and safety program initiatives.
Collaborate with engineering and design teams to provide feedback on weldability and manufacturability.
Participate in daily toolbox talks, project planning meetings, and safety briefings.
Assist in mentoring and training apprentice welders, sharing knowledge of advanced techniques and safety best practices.
Maintain accurate logs and records of work performed, materials used, and time allocated to specific tasks for project tracking.
Manage welding consumable inventory, communicating needs to the supervisor to prevent project delays.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Advanced Welding Processes: Proficiency in TIG (GTAW), MIG (GMAW), Stick (SMAW), and Flux-Core (FCAW).
Blueprint & WPS Interpretation: Ability to read and understand complex technical drawings, symbols, and welding procedure specifications.
Metal Fabrication: Skilled in cutting, bending, fitting, and assembling metal components.
Cutting Techniques: Expertise in using plasma cutters, oxy-acetylene torches, and air carbon arc gouging.
Weld Quality Inspection: Capable of identifying weld discontinuities and ensuring compliance with quality standards.
Material Knowledge: Understanding of the properties and weldability of various metals like carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.
Precision Measurement: Competency in using calipers, micrometers, squares, and other layout tools.
Grinding and Finishing: Skill in using hand and power tools to prepare and finish surfaces.

Soft Skills

Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to ensure precision, quality, and safety in every task.
Problem-Solving: Ability to diagnose issues with equipment or projects and implement effective solutions.
Safety Consciousness: A steadfast commitment to maintaining a safe work environment for oneself and the team.
Physical Stamina & Dexterity: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks in various positions and environments.
Strong Work Ethic: Reliable, punctual, and motivated to complete projects on schedule and to a high standard.
Teamwork & Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and other trades.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

Certificate or Diploma from a recognized Welding Vocational/Technical School.
Completion of a registered Welder Apprenticeship program.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Welding Technology
Metal Fabrication

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-5+ years of documented experience in a professional welding role, demonstrating proficiency in multiple processes and materials.

Preferred:

Current welding certifications, such as AWS D1.1 (Structural Steel), AWS D1.5 (Bridge Welding), or ASME Section IX (Boiler & Pressure Vessel).
Experience in a specific industry relevant to the position (e.g., structural, piping, manufacturing, or repair).