Welder (First Class) Full Time NEW

Position: Welder (First Class)

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $76,500 to $80,000 plus superannuation per annum

Location: Truganina VIC 3029

Our client Oz Powder Coating and Sand Blasting is a specialist metal finishing and fabrication business operating in Truganina, Victoria. The company provides comprehensive powder coating, sandblasting, and metal fabrication services to clients across the construction, automotive, manufacturing, and industrial sectors. Their operations require skilled welders who can perform high-quality welding work on a variety of metal components and structures.

The Welder (First Class) is responsible for performing high-quality welding operations on metal components, structures, and assemblies using various welding techniques. This position plays a critical role in our fabrication operations, ensuring all welded products meet Australian Standards, client specifications, and quality requirements. The position requires advanced welding skills, the ability to work independently, and a commitment to workplace safety and quality excellence.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Welding Operations

• Perform MIG, TIG, and arc welding on various metals including mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
• Execute welding operations in all positions (flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead) as required
• Weld components for powder coating preparation, ensuring proper surface finish and structural integrity
• Fabricate and weld metal structures, frames, gates, railings, and custom components to client specifications
• Perform repair welding on damaged or worn metal components and structures
• Maintain welding equipment and ensure proper gas mixture and electrode selection for each welding task

Fabrication and Metal Work

• Read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and welding symbols to execute fabrication work
• Measure, cut, and shape metal components using appropriate tools and equipment
• Set up and align components for welding operations, ensuring accurate positioning and fit-up
• Use grinding, cutting, and finishing tools to prepare metal surfaces for welding and powder coating
• Operate metal fabrication machinery including guillotines, press brakes, and rolling machines as required

Quality Control and Standards Compliance

• Inspect welded joints and structures to ensure compliance with Australian Standards (AS/NZS 1554) and client specifications
• Conduct visual inspections and non-destructive testing of welds to identify defects or imperfections
• Rectify welding defects including porosity, undercut, and incomplete fusion through appropriate repair procedures
• Maintain accurate records of welding procedures, materials used, and quality inspections
• Ensure all work meets specifications for subsequent powder coating and finishing processes

Workplace Safety and Compliance

• Follow all workplace health and safety procedures, policies, and regulations
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) including welding helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, ensuring proper storage of materials and equipment
• Identify and report workplace hazards, near misses, and safety incidents to supervisors
• Handle and store flammable gases, electrodes, and welding consumables safely
• Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and training programs as required.

Team Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborate with workshop supervisors, fabricators, and powder coating staff to coordinate workflow
• Provide technical advice and guidance to junior welders and apprentices
• Communicate with clients and management regarding project requirements, timelines, and technical issues
• Assist in planning and scheduling welding work to meet production deadlines
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and suggest process enhancement

Essential Qualifications and Experience

Formal Qualifications

• Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (MEM30319) or equivalent qualification
• Completion of a recognized welding apprenticeship or equivalent training program
• Current welding certification for MIG, TIG, and/or arc welding processes

Work Experience

• Minimum two (2) years of practical welding experience in a fabrication or manufacturing environment
• Demonstrated experience in MIG, TIG, and arc welding techniques across various materials
• Experience working with structural steel, stainless steel, and aluminium fabrication
• Proven ability to read and interpret technical drawings and welding specifications

Additional Requirements

• Current driver’s license (desirable but not essential)
• White Card (General Construction Induction) or willingness to obtain
• Forklift licence (desirable but not essential)
• Working at Heights certification (desirable for certain projects)
• Willingness to undergo police check and medical assessment if required

Required Skills and Competencies

Technical Skills

• Advanced proficiency in multiple welding processes (MIG, TIG, arc welding)
• Strong understanding of metallurgy, heat treatment, and material properties
• Ability to weld in all positions with high quality and minimal defects
• Competent in using measuring tools, cutting equipment, and fabrication machinery
• Knowledge of Australian Standards for welding (AS/NZS 1554) and structural steel (AS 4100)
• Understanding of workplace health and safety requirements in welding operations

Personal Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Good problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot welding issues
• Physical fitness and ability to work in various positions and environments
• Reliable, punctual, and strong work ethic
• Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team

Working Conditions

• Full-time position: 38 hours per week, Monday to Friday
• Overtime may be required to meet project deadlines
• Workshop-based environment with exposure to heat, fumes, noise, and metal dust
• Manual handling and physical work involving lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods
• Use of personal protective equipment is mandatory at all times
• Occasional travel to client sites for installation or repair work may be required