Welder Helper/Laborer

Job Summary
The Welder Helper / Laborer / Welder Trainee assists experienced welders and technicians in the repair, maintenance, and fabrication of milk tanker trailers. This position provides hands-on training in sanitary TIG welding, structural MIG welding, metal fabrication, trailer repair, and general shop operations. The ideal candidate is dependable, safety-conscious, mechanically inclined, and eager to develop welding/mechanical skills and advance within the company.

Responsibilities

• Assist welders with repair and fabrication of milk tanker trailers.
• Learn and perform sanitary TIG welding on stainless steel components used in food-grade transportation equipment.
• Learn and perform structural MIG welding on trailer frames, supports, and related components.
• Prepare materials for welding by cleaning, grinding, cutting, fitting, and positioning parts.
• Operate hand tools, power tools, grinders, drills, saws, and other shop equipment safely.
• Remove damaged components and assist with installation of replacement parts.
• Clean and polish welds to meet sanitary and cosmetic standards.
• Assist with trailer inspections and identify repair needs.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Load, unload, and move materials throughout the shop using proper lifting techniques.
• Follow all food-grade sanitary requirements, welding procedures, and safety regulations.
• Work alongside experienced welders to develop welding and fabrication skills.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications Required

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, climb, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.
• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.

Preferred

• Previous welding, fabrication, construction, or mechanical experience.
• Basic knowledge of MIG and TIG welding processes.
• Experience using hand and power tools.
• Experience working on trailers, trucks, or heavy equipment.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail.
• Commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to read a tape measure accurately.
• Ability to learn blueprint and repair drawing interpretation.
• Good problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work safely in a fast-paced shop environment.
• Positive attitude and willingness to accept coaching and training.

Working Conditions

• Industrial repair shop environment.
• Exposure to welding fumes, sparks, heat, noise, and moving equipment.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including welding helmet, gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed boots.
• Frequent lifting, pushing, pulling, bending, and climbing.

Advancement Opportunity

This position is designed as a training role with advancement opportunities to:

• Welder
• Trailer Repair Technician
• Lead Welder

Successful candidates will receive hands-on training in sanitary stainless-steel TIG welding, structural MIG welding, trailer repair, and fabrication techniques used in the dairy transportation industry.

Pay: From $18.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person