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Metal Fab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experienced Fitter

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$34.48 - $39.44/hr

Thompson Metal Fab is a union shop that offers outstanding benefits for employees and their dependents. Our Local 16 contract includes, but is not limited to: Paid Holidays, PTO, Union Pension Plan ...

Experienced Welder

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$34.48 - $39.44/hr

Thompson Metal Fab is a union shop that offers outstanding benefits for employees and their dependents. Our Local 16 contract includes, but is not limited to: Paid Holidays, PTO, Union Pension Plan ...

Welder/Metal Fab

Cedar City, UT · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Welder / Metal Fabricator Position Summary The Welder / Metal Fabricator works primarily in the weld shop to manufacture metal components used in custom signage, décor, fixtures, and other project ...

Welder/Metal Fab

Cedar City, UT · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Welder / Metal Fabricator Position Summary The Welder / Metal Fabricator works primarily in the weld shop to manufacture metal components used in custom signage, decor, fixtures, and other project ...

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Metal Fab information

See salary details

$12

$21

$32

How much do metal fab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for metal fab in the United States is $21.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a metal fabricator do?

A Metal Fabricator is responsible for cutting, shaping, and assembling metal parts to create products or structures. They use a variety of tools and machines, such as welders, cutters, and presses, to follow blueprints or specifications. Metal fabricators work in industries like construction, manufacturing, and automotive, and must have strong technical skills and attention to detail. Their work is essential for producing anything from structural beams to custom machinery components.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a metal fabricator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metal Fabricator, you need strong blueprint reading skills, proficiency in welding and metalworking techniques, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with tools such as CNC machines, plasma cutters, and welding equipment is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this field. These skills ensure precise fabrication, workplace safety, and efficient production in metalworking environments.

What are some common challenges faced by metal fabricators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Metal Fabricators often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex blueprints, maintaining precision during fabrication, and working with a variety of metals and machinery. Staying organized and communicating clearly with team members—including welders, engineers, and quality inspectors—can help address these issues. Regular training on new fabrication technologies and safety practices also ensures efficiency and reduces the risk of errors or workplace accidents. Building experience and developing problem-solving skills are key to overcoming these challenges and advancing in the field.

What is the difference between Metal Fab vs Metal Fabricator?

AspectMetal FabMetal Fabricator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, technical trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, technical training
Work EnvironmentFactories, workshops, construction sitesFactories, workshops, construction sites
Industry UsageBroad term for metalworking processesSpecific job role within metalworking industry
Common Search IntentGeneral metalworking processesSpecific job responsibilities of a metal fabricator

Metal Fab is a broad term referring to the process of fabricating metal components, while a Metal Fabricator is a skilled worker who performs these tasks. Essentially, Metal Fab describes the industry or process, whereas a Metal Fabricator is a job title within that industry. Both roles often require similar skills and work environments, but the term Metal Fabricator specifically refers to the individual performing the work.

Is metal fabrication a good career?

Metal fabrication is a skilled trade that offers steady employment opportunities, especially for those with experience in welding, cutting, and assembly. It often involves working in manufacturing or construction environments and may require certifications such as AWS welding credentials. The job can provide a stable income and opportunities for advancement in the manufacturing industry.
More about Metal Fab jobs

What cities are hiring for Metal Fab jobs?

Cities with the most Metal Fab job openings:

What states have the most Metal Fab jobs?

States with the most job openings for Metal Fab jobs include:

Infographic showing various Metal Fab job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,214 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Industrial Journeyman Painter / Blaster 1 (Swing Shift)

Thompson Metal Fab, Inc.

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$35.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Application Instructions
Come join our highly skilled team at Thompson Metal Fab.
The Pacific Northwest's premier steel fabricator, Thompson Metal Fab, Inc., is in immediate need of an experienced Industrial Journeyman Painter/Blaster. Serving the Civil, Hydro, Oil & Gas, and custom fabrication industries. We are an AISC, API, ASME, and WABO certified facility. With over 85 years in the industry, we have a reputation for producing some of the highest quality fabricated products on the West Coast.
Thompson Metal Fab offers outstanding benefits for employees and their dependents. Benefits include Paid Holidays, PTO, 401K Match, Dental, Vision, and excellent Health Care.
This position is available for swing shift: 3:00PM-1:30AM Mon-Thur.
**All employees must pass a pre-employment drug screen and pre-employment physical.**
Position Description
  • Performs work as requested in a correct and timely manner.
  • Understands and performs good painting practices and displays a proficient ability of painting and sandblasting.
  • Develops the ability of job set up with minimal supervision.
  • Notifies job supervisor of damages, breakdowns, accidents, and safety issues.
  • Maintains all equipment issued, including but not limited to: hardhat, safety glasses, respirator, and coveralls.
  • Repairs and performs preventative maintenance on equipment.
  • Regular and acceptable attendance and punctuality.
  • Foster a positive and opportunistic environment for project work team members
  • Establishes and maintains a positive working relationship with clients, agencies, and co-workers to promote a quality service image.
  • Ensures required paperwork is complete thoroughly and accurately.
  • Plan, lead and organize a job to meet company objective.
  • Responsible for reporting all injuries to him/herself or others immediately without delay, following an accident.
  • Maintains good communication with customers and crew.
  • Thoroughly understand how all equipment works.
  • Performs other duties as may be assigned.

Position Requirements
  • Minimum 5 years industrial blasting / painting experience required.
  • Ability to speak read and understand English is required.
  • Good customers service skills.
  • Ability to read, and understand, fabrication drawings for paint requirements and holdbacks
  • Ability to monitor all environmental requirements as well as the ability to perform all inspection requirements.
  • Good knowledge and understanding of Thompson Metal Fab safety policies and procedures.
  • Physical fitness sufficient to satisfactorily perform daily job duties and heavy lifting assignments.
  • High degree of attention and care required, to prevent injury to self and others when operating equipment.
  • Knowledge and experience in labor and painter responsibilities.
  • Knowledge and experience in industrial painting and sandblasting techniques.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license by the state.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods - 8 hours minimum
  • Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 25 lbs.) unassisted
  • Ability to perform job duties that require standing, kneeling, crouching, twisting upper body, working in cramped positions in small openings, and climbing hand over hand
  • Ability to work at elevated heights
  • Ability to work in extreme environments - exposure to heat and cold, similar to being outdoors
  • Ability to work in an environment requiring exposure to fumes, odors, and noise

Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age.
Disability Accommodations. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact us at 360-696-0811 or careers@tmfab.com.
Drug Policy. As a federal Contractor, and by Collective Bargaining Agreement, Thompson Metal Fab prohibits use, being under the influence of, or possession of marijuana and other controlled substances.
Safety. Thompson Metal Fab is committed to ensuring a safe workplace for every employee. All successful applicants will be required to follow our Ear, Eye, Safety Toe Shoes, and Hardhat protection requirements in shop areas.
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