Welder/Fabricator

Welder/Fabricator


Company
Whirlwind Steel Buildings Inc
Location
Houston, TX
Job Type
Full-time
Posted
2 days ago
Via
via Indeed

Job Description
Description:

Company Overview: Whirlwind Steel is a premier metal building manufacturer specializing in the design, fabrication, and delivery of top-quality metal structures. Our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction has positioned us as an industry leader. This has allowed us to become creators and distributors of buildings and products that people use to live, learn, worship, work, and play.

Job Summary: The Welder/Fabricator is responsible for supporting the Maintenance Department through fabrication, repair, installation, and modification of equipment, machinery, and production-related components throughout the facility. This role reports directly to the Plant Manager and works closely with both Maintenance and Production teams to ensure equipment reliability, minimize downtime, and support operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience in a production manufacturing environment and possess advanced welding and fitting skills using MIG, Stick, and Flux Core welding processes.

Key Responsibilities:
• Perform welding and fabrication work on production equipment, structural components, machinery, and facility-related projects.
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and fabrication specifications to complete projects accurately.
• Utilize MIG, Stick, and Flux Core welding processes safely and effectively.
• Repair damaged equipment and fabricate replacement parts as needed to minimize downtime.
• Assist Maintenance Department with preventative maintenance projects, equipment modifications, and emergency repairs.
• Work directly with Production teams to complete fabrication and welding tasks that support operational needs.
• Measure, cut, fit, and assemble metal components using appropriate tools and equipment.
• Maintain a safe and organized work area while following all company safety procedures and policies.
• Inspect completed welds and fabricated components to ensure quality standards are met.
• Operate forklifts, grinders, torches, plasma cutters, and other fabrication tools as needed.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, maintenance personnel, and production leadership regarding project status and repair needs.

Benefits: This is a full-time position with competitive compensation and benefits package, including health insurance, 401(k) plan, and paid time off.
Requirements:

Qualifications:
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience as a Welder/Fabricator or Welder/Fitter in a production or manufacturing facility.
• Proficient in MIG, Stick, and Flux Core welding processes.
• Strong fitting and fabrication experience in an industrial environment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and weld symbols.
• Experience repairing and fabricating production equipment and structural components.
• Working knowledge of fabrication tools, welding equipment, and industrial safety practices.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work in physically demanding environments.
• Forklift experience preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Welder Jobs

Q What is the median hourly wage for welders in the United States as of January 2026 including overtime rates?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median hourly wage for welders at $28.45 as of January 2026 with time-and-a-half overtime required after 40 hours under FLSA rules. Welders in manufacturing earn an additional $4.20 per hour on average for night shifts. Annual median earnings reach $59,176 for full-time roles.
Q How many hours per week can welders legally work in the United States without overtime pay in 2026?
The U.S. Department of Labor sets the standard workweek at 40 hours with overtime at 1.5 times the regular rate required after that threshold in 2026. Welders on federal contracts receive double time for hours over 48 in a workweek. Paid sick leave of up to 56 hours annually applies under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act extensions.
Q What education and experience are required to qualify for welder jobs in the United States in 2026?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states a high school diploma plus 6-12 months of postsecondary welding training or apprenticeship is required for 2026 entry-level positions. Three years of documented experience is mandatory for structural welding roles under AWS D1.1 standards referenced by DOL. Certification in SMAW or GMAW processes must be completed before hire.
Q What documents are required to apply for welder positions through U.S. Department of Labor registered apprenticeships in 2026?
Applicants must submit Form ETA-671, high school transcripts, and proof of U.S. work authorization to DOL-registered programs by March 2026 deadlines. A valid driver's license and negative drug test results from a SAMHSA-certified lab are mandatory. Background checks via FBI fingerprinting are required for nuclear or pipeline welding tracks.
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