Welding Instructor Jobs in Topeka, KS (NOW HIRING)

The Weld Shop Manager is responsible for overseeing all activities within the welding and fabrication shop, ensuring that production schedules are met, quality standards are adhered to, and operations run smoothly. This position requires strong leadership, technical expertise in welding processes, and the ability to manage a team of skilled welders, fabricators, and support staff. The Weld Shop Manager will also be involved in budgeting, equipment maintenance, robot programing and safety initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Safety & Compliance:
  • Promote and enforce adherence to safety policies and procedures in the welding shop.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment for all team members.
  • Ensure all welding processes comply with environmental and industry regulations.
  • Support regular safety meetings, audits, incident investigations and training to prevent accidents and injuries.
• Supervision & Leadership:
  • Lead and manage a team of welders, fabricators, and support staff.
  • Coordinate daily activities, ensuring that production targets and deadlines are met.
  • Train, mentor, and develop team members to improve skills and ensure high-quality output.
  • Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback.
• Production & Operations Management:
  • Oversee the welding and fabrication processes, ensuring work is completed to specifications and within established timeframes.
  • Monitor workflow, resource allocation, and staffing levels to ensure optimal productivity.
  • Troubleshoot any issues that arise during production and implement solutions quickly and effectively.
  • Ensure that all welding equipment and tools are well-maintained and meet safety and quality standards.
  • Ensure that robot programming is efficient and continually look to improve fabrication processes.
• Quality Control:
  • Ensure compliance with welding procedures, industry standards, and customer specifications.
  • Conduct inspections of welds and fabricated parts, identifying defects and ensuring corrections are made. Hold the team accountable to the quality standards of PTMW.
  • Work closely with the Quality Assurance team to maintain and improve the shop’s quality control processes.
  • Work with the quality team to ensure all welding equipment is properly maintained, calibrated, and serviced according to manufacturer guidelines.
• Inventory & Equipment Management:
  • Monitor and maintain inventory levels of welding materials, tools, and equipment.
  • Coordinate the ordering of supplies and ensure timely procurement of materials.
• Cost Control & Budgeting:
  • Assist in the development and adherence to the welding department budget by monitoring costs associated with labor, materials, and equipment to ensure financial goals are met.
  • Work with the manufacturing engineers to identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality or safety.
• Continuous Improvement:
  • Implement continuous improvement initiatives to optimize production processes and enhance efficiency.
  • Stay updated on new welding technologies, tools, and techniques, and recommend improvements to existing practices.
• Actively demonstrate a commitment to the PTMW Core Values of Credibility, Accountability, Leadership and Fairness
• Additional duties as assigned.

• Education & Experience:
  • Associates degree or equivalent technical degree required; a degree or certification in welding, metallurgy, or a related field is a plus.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in a welding/fabrication environment, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role managing other salary team members.
  • Strong knowledge of welding techniques, equipment, and materials.
  • Familiarity with industry standards such as AWS (American Welding Society) or other relevant certifications.
• Skills & Competencies:
  • Proven leadership and team management skills.
  • Strong understanding of welding processes (MIG, TIG, etc.) and materials.
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications.
  • Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to operate welding equipment and machinery safely and efficiently.
  • Proficient in the use of welding software and other manufacturing tools.
• Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand for extended periods.
  • Capable of lifting and moving materials weighing up to 80 pounds.
  • Ability to work in a hot, noisy, and sometimes hazardous environment while following safety protocols.

• Working Conditions:
  The Weld Shop Manager will work in a factory environment where exposure to noise, heat, and fumes from welding operations is common. Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be required.