Senior Welding Fabrication Team Lead

Plank Manufacturing Enterprises

  • Eau Claire, WI
  • 8 days ago

    Highlights

    You coordinate priorities with the Production Supervisor, communicate clearly at shift change, and drive a safe, efficient, and productive floor. Read and interpret blueprints; apply GD&T and use inspection tools (tape measures, squares, protractors, weld gauges, and precision instruments).

    Numbers & Facts

    LocationEau Claire, WI

    Description

    A day in the life

    As the working lead for our second-shift fabrication team, you arrive with a plan. You scan the build queue, review complex prints, prep fixtures, and line up material for smooth handoffs. Throughout the shift, you balance hands-on welding and fitting with coaching, troubleshooting, and quality checks—transforming parts into precise weldments that meet Pro-Cise, Inc. standards and exacting customer specifications. You coordinate priorities with the Production Supervisor, communicate clearly at shift change, and drive a safe, efficient, and productive floor.

    What you'll tackle

    • Independently fit and weld components and sub-assemblies using established techniques and processes.
    • Deliver weldments that meet dimensional, quality, and throughput targets using drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
    • Provide technical direction to second-shift welders/fitters; coach, mentor, and assist with troubleshooting.
    • Coordinate daily job flow and priorities with the Production Supervisor to satisfy schedules and customer needs.
    • Continuously monitor workmanship and quality; address issues proactively and escalate when needed.
    • Read and interpret blueprints; apply GD&T and use inspection tools (tape measures, squares, protractors, weld gauges, and precision instruments).
    • Perform MIG/GMAW welding on ferrous and non‑ferrous materials.
    • Assist with fixture design and fabrication; recommend process improvements that enhance quality and efficiency.
    • Onboard, train, and mentor new team members to ensure adherence to procedures and quality standards.
    • Act as a go-to resource for welding methods, blueprint interpretation, and fabrication best practices.
    • Accurately complete labor reporting, work orders, and proper WIP identification.
    • Follow ISO procedures and safety programs, including required PPE and equipment operation guidelines.
    • Champion a safe work environment and ensure compliance with company safety policies.
    • Operate forklifts, jib cranes, hoists, and other lifting devices safely and efficiently.
    • Communicate shift activities, production status, quality concerns, and project updates during shift transitions.
    • Pass required welding certifications, including those specified by customer contracts.
    • Support supervisors with productivity tracking, manpower planning, and continuous improvement initiatives.
    • Take on additional duties as needed to support team and company goals.

    Leadership scope

    Provide day-to-day leadership and direction for second-shift welding and fitting personnel. This role does not administer disciplinary actions but supports training, performance feedback, quality oversight, and workflow coordination.

    Qualifications

    • Advanced proficiency in MIG/GMAW welding processes.
    • Expert blueprint reading with strong fabrication and GD&T interpretation skills.
    • Demonstrated ability to guide, mentor, and lead peers.
    • Proven skill prioritizing and coordinating multiple jobs in a fast-paced environment.
    • Strong problem-solving and sound decision-making.
    • Skilled with precision measurement and inspection equipment.
    • Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to top-tier quality.
    • Clear, professional verbal and written communication.
    • Collaborative mindset across departments and shifts.
    • Organized with excellent time management.
    • Reliable, punctual, and effective with minimal supervision.
    • Dedication to safety, continuous improvement, and employee development.

    Education & certifications

    • Technical Diploma in Welding preferred; OR
    • High School Diploma/GED plus at least six (6) years of welding/fabrication experience, including leadership or lead-person experience.
    • Experience leading, mentoring, or training welders in manufacturing preferred.
    • Must meet Pro-Cise, Inc. welding qualification requirements and pass applicable certification tests.
    • AWS D1.1 certification required.
    • Forklift and lifting-device operation certification (company provided).

    Technical proficiencies

    • GD&T
    • Precision Measurement & Hand Metrology
    • Blueprint Reading
    • GMAW/MIG Welding
    • Manufacturing Processes
    • Metal Fabrication
    • Quality Assurance
    • TIG Welding
    • Weld Inspection
    • Welding Technology
    • ISO Quality Systems

    Machines & technologies you'll use

    • MIG Welder
    • TIG Welder

    Physical demands

    • Stand for extended periods; reach with hands and arms; handle tools and materials regularly.
    • Frequent walking; occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
    • Lift and move up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
    • Visual acuity requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and focus adjustment.

    Mental demands

    • Lead others while maintaining personal productivity and quality.
    • Maintain strong focus and situational awareness for safety, quality, and efficiency.
    • Interpret written/verbal instructions, engineering drawings, and work orders.
    • Troubleshoot welding, fabrication, quality, and workflow issues.
    • Prioritize multiple assignments and help the team meet deadlines.
    • Make effective decisions in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.

    Work environment

    • Regular exposure to welding fumes, airborne particles, and hot surfaces.
    • Frequent contact with moving mechanical parts and high-temperature materials.
    • Loud noise levels—hearing protection required.
    • Manufacturing floor setting with required PPE, ventilation, and safety protocols.

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