Fabrication Technician

Overview

Responsible for performing structural and pipe welding, fitting, fabrication, and assembly tasks in support of barge and boat repair and construction. This role requires a strong commitment to safety, quality workmanship, and teamwork. The individual must be able to read blueprints, operate welding and fitting tools, and work in various environmental conditions

Responsibilities

• Perform ship fitting and welding tasks such as grinding, cutting, aligning, and assembling.
• Lay out, fabricate, and brace metal structural parts including plates, bulkheads, hulls, decks, pipes, and frames.
• Weld steel plate/pipe using SMAW, MIG, TIG, and FCAW techniques.
• Prepare surfaces and complete full penetration welds on specialty components and structural areas.
• Use hand tools, power tools, cutting torches, and welding equipment safely and efficiently.
• Consult with supervisor regarding installation or repair problems and timelines.
• Remove high spots and cut bevels using grinders and files.
• Tack weld clips and brackets prior to permanent welding.
• Maintain a safe and clean working environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, welding symbols, and technical drawings.
• Proficiency in welding and fitting techniques and tools.
• Experience with various metals. (carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum).
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Bilingual proficiency preferred.

Competencies

• Teamwork: Works effectively with others and promotes collaboration.
• Adaptability: Adjusts to changing priorities and learns quickly.
• Integrity: Acts with honesty, respect, and accountability.
• Initiative: Takes proactive steps and exceeds expectations.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to Detail: Maintains high standards for safety and quality.

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a shipyard or marine fabrication environment.

Special Requirements

• NA

Physical Activities & Requirements

• Employee will be subject to a physical examination by a Kirby Corporation-appointed physician in the event Kirby Corporation extends a conditional offer of employment.
• Ability to walk 2-3 miles per day.
• Ability to step vertical heigh differential approximately two feet vertical and two feet horizontal.
• Ability to step across, up, down, or over an obstacle to gain access to docks from the barge to the boat or from boat to the dock.
• Ability to extend arms fully, throughout a normal range of motion both in a horizontal and vertical plane.
• Ability to climb 25-30 feet, 90-degree vertical ladder.
• Ability to lift approximately 60-75 pounds and carry approximately 500 feet.
• Ability to pass pulmonary function test with a minimum score of 80% with physician approval.
• Ability to perform all duties while wearing personal protective equipment.

Working Conditions

• Standard workweek is a minimum of 40 hours, with regular overtime expected.
• Duties primarily take place at the dock with occasional daytime boarding of boats/barges. Typically, it does not require overnight stays on boats/barges.
• May be exposed to harsh natural elements, such as intense heat, freezing cold, rain, ice, sleet, and various other environmental conditions.
• Able to work inside confined spaces, heights, and operate equipment safely.
• The work requires long periods of sitting in awkward positions, standing on a variety of surfaces and at differing angles, bending over, crouching and climbing up and over obstructions such as scaffolding, ladders, and internal barge and boat structural members.