Millwright

Purpose & Summary Statement

Aurora Cooperative is seeking a highly skilled Millwright/Welder to support the maintenance, repair, fabrication, and installation of equipment and structural components across grain, agronomy, and feed facilities. This position combines traditional millwright responsibilities with advanced welding and fabrication duties to ensure equipment reliability, facility safety, and operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate possesses strong mechanical aptitude, extensive welding and metal fabrication experience, and the ability to troubleshoot and repair industrial equipment with minimal supervision. This individual must work safely, efficiently, and collaboratively to complete projects in a fast-paced agricultural environment.

Essential Job Functions

Millwright Responsibilities

• Perform maintenance, repair, installation, and modification of grain handling, agronomy, and feed mill equipment.

• Disassemble and reassemble machinery for repair, relocation, or upgrades.

• Install and repair:

• Belt conveyors

• Chain conveyors

• Bucket elevators

• Augers and drag systems

• Electric motors and gearboxes

• Bearings, pulleys, and drive systems

• Spouting and material handling equipment

• Read and interpret mechanical drawings, blueprints, and equipment manuals.

• Perform preventive maintenance inspections and identify equipment deficiencies.

• Troubleshoot mechanical failures and determine root causes.

• Operate skid loaders, telehandlers, aerial lifts, forklifts, cranes, chain falls, and rigging equipment when required.

Welding & Fabrication Responsibilities

• Perform MIG, Stick, and Flux Core welding on mild steel, stainless steel, and structural components.

• Fabricate and install:

• Platforms

• Handrails

• Stairs

• Ladders

• Catwalks

• Structural supports

• Machine guarding

• Safety devices

• Cut, fit, fabricate, and assemble steel components using:

• Plasma cutting systems

• Oxy-fuel torches

• Band saws

• Grinders

• Drill presses

• Modify equipment and fabricate custom solutions to improve safety and operational efficiency.

• Repair worn, damaged, or failed equipment components through welding and fabrication techniques.

• Work with engineering, project management, and operations personnel on capital improvement projects.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all Aurora Cooperative safety policies, OSHA regulations, confined space requirements, and lockout/tagout procedures.
• Carefully select and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) for all assigned tasks.
• Conduct hot work safely and obtain required permits.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas.
• Promote a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical degree or welding certification preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in industrial maintenance, millwright work, welding, fabrication, or related field preferred.
• Agricultural facility, feed mill, grain handling, or industrial manufacturing experience preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

• Welding and fabrication proficiency.
• Working knowledge of industrial mechanical systems.
• Understanding of bearings, conveyor systems, power transmission equipment, hydraulics, and pneumatics.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to regularly lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift heavier loads with assistance.
• Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, and work in confined spaces.
• Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and work in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to work seasonal overtime, weekends, and emergency call-outs as needed.

Other Requirements

• Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Class A CDL with Tanker, Hazmat, and Doubles endorsements within six months of hire.
• Ability to travel between Aurora Cooperative facilities as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive Pay
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• HSA & Flexible Spending Plans
• Company-Paid Life Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Vacation, Sick Leave & Holidays
• Career Development & Training Opportunities

Aurora Cooperative is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a safe and productive work environment.