Viking Group

Overview

The Lead Welder is responsible for leading the daily activities of the welding team while serving as the technical expert for all welding operations. This hands-on position ensures work is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with company quality standards, customer specifications, and production schedules.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the daily activities of the welding team to meet production schedules and customer commitments.
• Assign work based on priorities, employee skill levels, and production requirements.
• Train, mentor, and coach new and existing welders on welding techniques, safety procedures, and company standards.
• Monitor employee performance and provide constructive feedback to the Fabrication Supervisor.
• Perform MIG, TIG, Stick, and other welding processes as required.
• Read and interpret blueprints, fabrication drawings, work orders, and specifications.
• Fabricate pipe assemblies and related products to company and customer specifications.
• Verify weld quality through visual inspection and measurement.
• Apply certification stamps and complete required production documentation.
• Assist with prototype work and complex fabrication projects.
• Help ensure daily production goals and labor productivity standards are achieved.
• Identify production bottlenecks and recommend process improvements.
• Coordinate workflow with fabrication, warehouse, and customer service teams.
• Ensure materials, consumables, and equipment are available for scheduled production.
• Minimize downtime through proactive planning and communication.
• Ensure all work meets company quality standards and applicable industry codes.
• Perform first-piece and in-process quality inspections.
• Assist in investigating weld defects and implementing corrective actions.
• Maintain accurate production and quality records.
• Promote a culture of safety throughout the fabrication shop.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety policies.
• Verify proper use of PPE and safe equipment operation.
• Report safety concerns, equipment issues, and maintenance needs promptly.
• Participate in safety meetings and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform routine inspections of welding equipment and tools.
• Report equipment failures and coordinate repairs.
• Help maintain welding machines, fixtures, and fabrication equipment in proper working condition.
• Ensure work areas remain clean, organized, and compliant with 5S principles.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Welding certification preferred.
• 5+ years of welding and fabrication experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Previous experience leading, mentoring, or training welders preferred.
• Experience with pipe fabrication is highly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of MIG, TIG, and Stick welding processes.
• Ability to read blueprints and fabrication drawings.
• Strong understanding of welding symbols and measurements.
• Knowledge of fabrication shop equipment including band saws, ironworkers, drill presses, and pipe threading equipment.
• Ability to troubleshoot fabrication and welding issues.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple jobs while maintaining quality.
• Basic computer skills for production tracking and documentation.
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification preferred.

Additional Information

• This position is performed in a fabrication and manufacturing environment where exposure to welding fumes, heat, noise, moving machinery, and industrial equipment is common.
• Proper PPE is required at all times.