Welding Machine Operator Jobs Near Me

Job Title: GMAW (MIG) Pipe Welder & Machine Operator

Location: Lockbourne, OH Area

Schedule: Monday – Friday, 6:00 AM – 2:30 PM (Overtime as needed up to 4:30 PM | 30-Min Unpaid Lunch)

Pay Rate: Competitive & Experienced-Based (Determined after successful completion of the weld test) but in the range of $24-26/hr.

Position Type: Full-Time, Production Welding

About the Role

Are you an experienced MIG Welder with a background in machine operation looking for a stable, fast-paced career in industrial fabrication? We are seeking a precision-focused GMAW (MIG) Pipe Welder to join our production team serving the fire sprinkler fabrication industry.

In this role, you will weld carbon steel outlets onto steel pipe using both state-of-the-art automated welding equipment and hands-on manual techniques. While the majority of production welding is machine-driven, your hands-on welding background will be essential to evaluating weld quality, identifying discontinuities, and executing flawless repairs.

If you are a safety-minded welder who takes pride in quality craftsmanship and efficient output, we want to talk to you!

What You Will Do (Key Responsibilities)

• Production Pipe Welding: Weld carbon steel outlets onto steel pipe for fire sprinkler system applications using manual GMAW (MIG) techniques.
• Automated Machine Operation: Set up, monitor, and operate automated and semi-automated pipe welding machinery.
• Specialty Fabrication: Complete specialty welds including spool pieces, flanges, and custom fabricated pipe assemblies.
• Quality & Defect Inspection: Inspect completed work for weld defects, dimensions, alignment, end preparations, and seam splits. Perform precision weld repairs as needed.
• Blueprint & Work Order Compliance: Read and interpret production paperwork, cut lists, and work instructions to verify setup specifications.
• Dimensional Accuracy: Utilize tape measures and basic measuring tools to check and verify product lengths and layout dimensions.
• Station Upkeep & Safety: Maintain a clean, organized, and 5S-compliant welding station. Promptly report equipment repair needs or safety concerns.

What You Bring to the Table (Qualifications)

Minimum Requirements:

• Welding Experience: Minimum of 1 year of hands-on MIG (GMAW) welding experience.
• Machine Operation: Minimum of 1 year operating production or fabrication machinery.
• Measurement Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to accurately read and use a tape measure.
• Tech Skills: Basic computer skills for navigating work orders and tracking production.
• Safety & Teamwork: Strong safety orientation in a fast-paced shop, good communication skills, and a positive, team-oriented attitude.

Preferred Qualifications (A Plus!):

• Previous experience welding carbon steel pipe or working in pipe fabrication.
• Specific experience in the fire protection / fire sprinkler industry.
• Familiarity with outlet welding, spool fabrication, and flange joining.
• Proven ability to visually spot weld defects and execute clean repairs.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods on concrete production floors.
• Frequently lift, shift, and maneuver materials weighing up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to bend, kneel, reach, and work safely around automated equipment, moving materials, and overhead cranes.

Interview & Employment Testing Requirements

Interview Weld Test: Candidates will complete a hands-on weld test during the interview process, consisting of welding a 1-inch outlet onto a 2-inch steel pipe using the GMAW process (evaluated via visual inspection).

• Required Gear for Interview: You MUST bring your own Welding Hood/Helmet, Welding Jacket, Gloves, Steel/Composite Toe Boots, and Jeans to complete the interview and weld test.

First-Week Qualification Requirement:

• Hired candidates must successfully pass an official Manual GMAW 2G Pipe Welding Qualification Test during their first week of employment.

Why Join Our Team?

• Stable Schedule: Reliable 1st-shift hours with consistent overtime opportunities.
• Skill Advancement: Expand your expertise in automated machinery, pipe fabrication, and structural layouts.
• Career Growth: Long-term career progression within a leading fire sprinkler fabrication operation.
• Culture: A supportive, safety-first environment that recognizes and rewards quality and productivity.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

PrideStaff can offer you a wide-range of rewarding career options. Whether you prefer the freedom and variety of temporary work or the challenge of a full-time position, PrideStaff can help you find the job that best matches your skills and interests.

With offices throughout the country, PrideStaff gives you the inside track to great jobs with more than 3,000 employers.

As a PrideStaff Field Associate, you'll enjoy our generous pay and benefits package, and just as importantly, you will be treated fairly, with dignity, courtesy, and respect. Work with a Staffing Firm that works for you!

Positions are filling up quickly so apply today!