Mechanical Structural Welder

About the Role

As a Mechanical Structural Welder at Burkes Mechanical, you will perform fit-up and welding of structural steel and mechanical assemblies used in heavy-industry projects. You will work from fabrication drawings and fit-up instructions to produce welds that meet code and client specifications, support QA/QC inspections, and help prepare assemblies for transport and field installation.

Key Responsibilities

• Read and interpret fabrication drawings, detail sketches, and work orders.

• Fit, tack, and weld structural components, beams, columns, brackets, and assemblies to specified tolerances.

• Perform common welding processes including SMAW, FCAW, and GMAW as required by material and procedure.

• Prepare joints: grind, bevel, clean, and pre-fit to ensure proper weld penetration and finish.

• Support QA/QC by preparing joints for NDT, making weld repairs, and maintaining weld records and traceability.

• Operate shop tools and equipment safely: grinders, hoists, cutting torches, and lifting gear.

• Maintain clean, organized work areas and follow hot work permitting, lockout/tagout, and PPE requirements.

• Collaborate with fitters, layout techs, supervisors, and inspectors to meet production schedules and quality standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• Proven structural welding experience in fabrication or heavy industrial environments.

• Demonstrated proficiency with SMAW and FCAW; GMAW experience preferred.

• Ability to read basic fabrication drawings and follow written weld procedures.

• Comfortable working at heights and using lifting/rigging equipment.

• Strong attention to weld quality, dimensional fit-up, and safety.

Preferred Certifications and Training

• Welding qualifications per employer, ASME Section IX, or equivalent.

• AWS or NCCER welding credentials and trade school or apprenticeship background preferred.

• OSHA 10 or 30, hot work awareness, and confined space awareness as required by project.

• Experience with NDT prep and common inspection acceptance criteria is a plus.

What We Offer

• Hands-on work on structural and mechanical fabrication for major industrial clients.

• Training and mentorship to expand welding qualifications and move into lead or supervisory roles.

• Access to paid safety and technical training, vendor courses, and credential support for top performers.

• Team-focused shop environment that prioritizes workmanship, reliability, and predictable execution.

Safety and Career Development

Safety is a core expectation. Expect daily toolbox talks, enforced PPE standards, hot work permitting, and formal mentoring. We support skill progression through welding qualification testing, vendor training, and documented competency pathways so welders can advance into senior craft or supervisory roles.

Burkes Mechanical is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.