A successful Class A Fitter Welder should be able to take a fabrication drawing from paper to properly fitted assembly with minimal direction. Candidates should demonstrate strong judgment, precision layout skills, excellent fit-up techniques, and the ability to recognize problems before they become costly rework.
Class A Fitter Responsibilities
• Interpret drawings, weld symbols, and fabrication specifications
• Select and verify correct materials before fabrication
• Perform accurate layout and dimensional calculations
• Cut, bevel, grind, and prepare material for fabrication
• Fit and align components to required dimensions and tolerances
• Set up fixtures, clamps, and lifting equipment as required
• Calculate circumference and degree locations for round components
• Perform accurate tack welding and prepare assemblies for final welding
• Check dimensions, squareness, alignment, and fit-up throughout the fabrication process
• Identify and correct fit-up issues before final welding
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas
• Inspect completed work for dimensional accuracy and workmanship
• Work efficiently while maintaining American Wheatley's quality standards
Minimum Qualifications
• 5+ years of professional fitter/welder experience
• Proven ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings and blueprints
• Strong understanding of welding symbols and weld specifications
• Ability to accurately measure, layout, cut, and fit structural and fabricated components
• Experienced with pipe, plate, structural steel, and miscellaneous fabrication
• Ability to calculate and lay out angles and degrees on round components
• Strong knowledge of dimensions, tolerances, and fit-up requirements
• Ability to use tape measures, squares, levels, calipers, grinders, torches, and other fabrication tools
• Ability to properly tack and fixture assemblies while controlling distortion
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Must be able to follow all company safety procedures
Preferred Experience
• Structural and industrial fabrication
• Pipe and vessel-related fabrication
• Experience working from detailed fabrication drawings
• Experience with multiple welding processes
• Formal welding/fabrication training or certifications
• Rigging and material-handling experience
Physical Requirements
The following physical activities are essential to successfully perform this job:
- Standing/Walking: Up to 6 hours per shift
- Lifting/Carrying: Regular lifting of materials up to 50 lbs
- Bending/Stooping/Kneeling: Frequent throughout shift
- Reaching/Manual Dexterity: Frequent use of hands and arms for tool operation and assembly work
- Vision/Hearing/Communication: Clear vision and hearing required for safety and effective communication
- Pushing/Pulling/Climbing: Periodic pushing or pulling of equipment or materials; occasional ladder use.
- Exposure to heat, sparks, smoke, and fumes from welding operations
- Moderate to loud noise levels from machinery and tools
- Must be willing and able to work outside in a manufacturing / warehouse environment with varying temperatures
- Must wear personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Reasonable Accommodation The employer will provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, to enable them to perform essential job functions, unless doing so would create an undue hardship. Work Environment: This position is based in a welding and fabrication facility with exposure to typical industrial shop conditions.