General Fabrication Welder Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In this era of rapid industrial growth, the demand for proficient fabrication welders is higher than ever.

As the industry evolves, the need for skilled craftsmen who can create, refine, and ensure the quality of our physical structures continues to grow.

But what exactly is expected from a general fabrication welder?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the world of general fabrication welding,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we are introducing a customizable general fabrication welder job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

General Fabrication Welder Duties and Responsibilities

General Fabrication Welders are skilled tradespeople who use heat to join metal parts together, often in the manufacturing or construction industries.

They need to be proficient in using a variety of welding equipment and procedures, and they should also be familiar with safety regulations.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Read and interpret blueprints, sketches or product specifications to determine sequence and methods of fabricating, assembling and welding metal components
• Select and set up welding equipment, ensuring the correct gas, heat, and speed settings for the specific task
• Weld metal parts together using both gas welding or brazing and any combination of arc welding processes
• Perform related tasks such as thermal cutting and grinding
• Inspect structures or materials to be welded to ensure that safety standards are met
• Repair broken or damaged metal components by welding them together
• Maintain welding machinery, equipment, and hand tools to ensure they are in proper working order
• Follow all safety guidelines and procedures, such as wearing protective equipment and ensuring the workspace is ventilated
• Advise and assist with the purchase and maintenance of welding equipment and supplies
• Continually enhance welding skills and knowledge through professional development

 

General Fabrication Welder Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a skilled General Fabrication Welder to cut and join metals and other materials at our facilities.

You will operate appropriate equipment to put together mechanical structures or parts with a great deal of precision.

A successful General Fabrication Welder must have a steady hand and great attention to detail.

Knowledge of different kinds of metal and their properties is essential.

 

Responsibilities

• Analyze blueprints, plans, and drawings to understand the project requirements.
• Select appropriate welding methods or techniques based on the specific project needs.
• Operate angle grinders to prepare the parts that must be welded.
• Align components using calipers, rulers etc. and clamp pieces.
• Weld components using manual or semi-automatic welding equipment in various positions (vertical, horizontal or overhead).
• Repair machinery and other components by welding pieces and filling gaps.
• Test and inspect welded surfaces and structure to discover flaws.
• Maintain equipment in a condition that does not compromise safety.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a welder.
• Experience using a variety of welding equipment and procedures (TIG, MMA etc.).
• Experience in using electrical or manual tools (saws, squares, calipers etc.).
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents and drawings.
• Knowledge of relative safety standards and willingness to use protective clothing (face-shield, gloves etc.).
• Deftness and attention to detail.
• Professional Certification (e.g. an AWS welding certificate).

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: General Fabrication Welder
• Work Environment: Industrial setting, workshop. Safety gear is required and provided.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Welding Supervisor or Workshop Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and any relevant certification to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a General Fabrication Welder Do?

General Fabrication Welders typically work for manufacturing companies, construction firms, or automobile industries.

They can also offer their services independently on a contractual basis.

They work closely with other welders, technicians, and engineers to weld metal parts together, using various welding techniques such as MIG, TIG, or stick welding, depending on the specific project requirement.

Their primary job is to follow blueprints or design sketches to bring together metal parts accurately.

They must ensure that the final product meets the required specifications and quality standards.

General Fabrication Welders are also responsible for inspecting structures or materials to identify any potential problems or defects in the welding process.

They use tools such as calipers, straightedges, or gauges to examine the accuracy of the finished work.

They may also be tasked with maintaining and repairing equipment and machinery, ensuring that they operate safely and efficiently.

This may involve the use of cutting tools to dismantle large objects or the use of grinding tools to smooth out rough surfaces.

Moreover, General Fabrication Welders are required to adhere to safety protocols, ensuring that personal protective equipment is used at all times and that the work area is free from potential hazards.

They often work on a diverse range of projects, from creating structural components for buildings or bridges to crafting intricate parts for machinery or vehicles.

Therefore, they must adapt quickly and efficiently to different work environments and project demands.

 

General Fabrication Welder Qualifications and Skills

A proficient General Fabrication Welder should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Technical skills in welding, including proficiency with various welding tools and techniques, as well as a thorough knowledge of welding safety practices.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to handle heavy welding equipment and work in different positions and environments for extended periods.
• Mathematical skills for accurate measurements and calculations, essential for precise fabrication and assembly of metal structures.
• Blueprint and schematic reading skills to understand complex design instructions and specifications.
• Problem-solving skills to identify, troubleshoot and rectify issues that may arise during the fabrication process.
• Attention to detail to ensure the highest levels of quality and adherence to design specifications.
• Interpersonal and communication skills for effective collaboration with team members, managers, and other professionals involved in the project.
• Time management skills to complete projects within stipulated deadlines.

 

General Fabrication Welder Experience Requirements

A General Fabrication Welder typically starts their career by attending a trade school or community college, where they can take up programs in welding technology or related fields.

These programs often include practical training in various welding techniques, safety practices and blueprint reading.

Many welders also gain experience through apprenticeships which are usually sponsored by unions or manufacturing companies.

These programs typically combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training, and may last from 3 to 4 years.

Entry-level General Fabrication Welders may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gathered through internships, part-time roles or during their apprenticeship.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience are generally considered skilled workers, having honed their skills in a variety of welding techniques and gained experience in working with different materials.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have experience in supervisory roles, having overseen the work of less experienced welders, and may be ready for roles such as Welding Supervisor or Welding Inspector.

Some jobs may require certain certifications, like those offered by the American Welding Society (AWS), which also require a certain amount of professional welding experience.

 

General Fabrication Welder Education and Training Requirements

A General Fabrication Welder typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent for entry-level positions.

Many individuals further their skills through vocational training programs, community colleges, or technical schools that offer courses in welding techniques and safety procedures.

These programs can range from six months to two years and often lead to a certificate upon completion.

Some welders may also choose to obtain an associate degree in welding technology, which provides a more in-depth study of different welding methods, blueprint reading, metallurgy, and welding symbols.

After completing their education, welders typically start as apprentices to gain hands-on experience under the supervision of a seasoned professional.

This apprenticeship period can last up to five years.

Most employers require welders to have a Certified Welder (CW) credential, which is provided by the American Welding Society.

This certification requires passing a hands-on welding test and demonstrates a welder’s competence in the field.

Continuing education is important in this profession as new welding techniques and technologies are constantly being developed.

As such, many welders participate in ongoing training throughout their careers to keep their skills current.

Having additional certifications such as Certified Welding Inspector or Certified Welding Educator can increase a welder’s job prospects and salary potential.

 

General Fabrication Welder Salary Expectations

A General Fabrication Welder earns an average salary of $40,600 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary depending on the welder’s level of experience, certifications, location, and the employing company.

 

General Fabrication Welder Job Description FAQs

What skills does a General Fabrication Welder need?

General Fabrication Welders need excellent manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

They should be proficient in various welding techniques such as TIG, MIG, and ARC welding.

Knowledge of metallurgy and the ability to read and interpret blueprints and welding process specifications are also crucial.

They must also follow safety practices and procedures to prevent workplace hazards.

 

Do General Fabrication Welders need any specific qualifications?

Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is required, with some employers preferring candidates with a technical diploma in welding or a related field.

Welders also need to complete a certain amount of training and obtain certification from a recognized welding institution.

This certification usually requires passing a practical welding test and sometimes a written test on welding theory.

 

What should you look for in a General Fabrication Welder’s resume?

Look for evidence of formal training in welding, such as a diploma or certificate from a recognized institution.

Experience with various welding techniques and materials is a plus, as is familiarity with safety procedures.

Certifications are crucial, especially those granted by the American Welding Society.

Any additional skills, such as blueprint reading or equipment maintenance, should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good General Fabrication Welder?

A good General Fabrication Welder is patient, detail-oriented, and has a strong commitment to safety.

They should be able to work independently, but also function well as part of a team.

Problem-solving abilities are essential, as welders often need to adjust their techniques based on the materials they are working with.

Physical stamina is also important, as the job often involves standing for long periods and lifting heavy materials.

 

Is it difficult to hire General Fabrication Welders?

The demand for skilled General Fabrication Welders is high, and there can be competition among employers to hire the most qualified candidates.

The job requires a specific set of skills and qualifications, which can make it challenging to find the right fit.

Providing ongoing training opportunities and competitive compensation can help attract and retain skilled welders.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the welding mask to reveal the true essence of being a general fabrication welder.

And guess what?

It’s not just about melting metals.

It’s about shaping the tangible world, one weld at a time.

With our comprehensive general fabrication welder job description template and real-world examples, you’re geared up to make your next move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your tool to crafting precision-engineered job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every weld is part of a larger structure.

Let’s build that future. Together.

How to Become a General Fabrication Welder (Complete Guide)

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