Welder Apprentice 2nd

Position Summary 

The Welder Apprentice performs welding and fabrication tasks under the guidance of certified Journeyperson within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. This role supports the fabrication of custom prototypes, jigs, fixtures, production components and metal structures in accordance with technical drawings, specifications and established welding procedures. The Welder Apprentice follows approved welding parameters and processes, including GMAW, FCAW and GTAW, while contributing to production targets and continuous improvement initiatives within assigned work cells. 

Roles and Responsibilities 

• Read, interpret and apply blueprints, shop drawings, welding symbols and welding procedure specifications (WPS) under the guidance of a Journeyperson or Supervisor. 

• Set up and operate manual or semi‑automatic welding equipment to join metal components using GTAW, GMAW, FCAW and SMAW processes in accordance with approved procedures and instructions. 

• Perform flame‑cutting and thermal cutting operations using manual or semi‑automatic equipment as required. 

• Assist with and operate metal fabrication and forming equipment, including brakes, shears and straightening and bending machines. 

• Perform fit‑up, tack welding and basic repairs or rework by adding weld material, as directed and under supervision. 

• Assist with inspections, repairs, modifications and retrofits to ensure components meet quality and dimensional requirements. 

• Conduct basic visual inspections of welds and components and identify defects or issues for review by a Journeyperson or Supervisor. 

• Maintain detailed and accurate maintenance reports and documentation in accordance with company procedures. 

Roles and Responsibilities Continued 

• Maintain a working knowledge of changes in welding technologies, codes, compliance requirements and repair techniques. 

• Monitor welding parts and materials usage and report any shortages, discrepancies or material issues to supervision. 

• Support quality control checks and inspection readiness by ensuring work meets drawings, specifications and applicable standards. 

• Ensure assigned tasks and project work are completed accurately in alignment with required standards. 

• Perform assigned welding tasks under the direction of a certified Journeyperson or designated Supervisor in accordance with apprenticeship requirements. 

• Participate and adhere to shop hygiene, housekeeping and 5S Program.  

• Perform all duties in accordance with Silent-Aire safety program standards and Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act, Regulations and Code. 

• Other duties may be assigned as deemed necessary. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• Basic understanding of welding processes, materials and shop practices relevant to a manufacturing environment. 

• Ability to read, interpret and follow basic blueprints, shop drawings, welding symbols and work instructions under supervision.  

• Foundational knowledge of welding equipment, tools and fabrication machinery, with the ability to learn proper setup and operation.  

• Ability to work in a safety sensitive environment and adhering to safety protocols. 

• Demonstrated commitment to completing technical training and progressing toward Journeyperson certification. 

• Mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving skills to support fabrication, fit‑up and basic troubleshooting tasks.  

• Awareness of weld quality standards and the ability to recognize obvious weld defects and report concerns to a Journeyperson or Supervisor.  

• Ability to follow established procedures, work instructions and quality requirements consistently.  

• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure production environment while effectively managing multiple competing priorities. 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to build strong working relationships. 

• Ability to interact with others in a sensitive, tactful, diplomatic and professional manner at all times. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Continued 

• Highly adaptable, with strong interpersonal skills that support effective collaboration in a diverse work environment. 

• Strong organizational skills with a proven ability to prioritize tasks, resolve issues and consistently meet deadlines. 

• Proven ability to thrive and contribute effectively in a team‑based environment. 

• Committed to continuous improvement and dedicated to learning new methods and practices. 

• Works effectively on individual tasks, maintaining productivity and accountability with minimal supervision. 

• Maintains strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy and quality of work. 

Education and Work Experience 

• High School Diploma or equivalent. 

• Must be registered as an Apprentice Welder with Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) and actively enrolled in an approved trade school program. 

• A minimum of 500 hours of welding experience is required. 

• Ability to obtain and maintain applicable Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) certifications, including CSA W47.1 and/or W47.2. 

• Exposure to reading and interpreting basic blueprints, shop drawings and welding symbols through education or hands‑on experience. 

• Experience or coursework involving GMAW, FCAW, GTAW, or SMAW processes is considered an asset. 

• Familiarity with fabrication processes such as cutting, fitting, tacking, grinding and material preparation is an asset. 

• Understanding of basic quality control concepts and adherence to manufacturing or production standards is an asset. 

• Previous work experience in an industrial, commercial or manufacturing environment is preferred. 

• Working knowledge of welding tools, materials and equipment used in manufacturing environments is an asset. 

• Experience with routine welding maintenance operations is an asset. 

Working Conditions 

• Required to work in a manufacturing environment that may involve exposure to noise, moving machinery, varying temperatures and other production‑related hazards. 

• Required to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent exposure to hazardous materials and excessive noise levels in the workplace. 

• Must have the physical ability to lift and carry materials weighing up to 35 lbs. 

• Must have the ability to stand for extended periods throughout each shift. 

• Manual dexterity is required to effectively operate tools and equipment. 

• Overtime may be available occasionally with work volume. 

• Occasional travel to off-site locations may be required.