Field Pipe Welder

Job Summary
The Field Pipe Welder is a highly skilled tradesperson responsible for executing specialized welding, fitting, and repair tasks directly on commercial, institutional, and industrial construction sites. This role requires exceptional mobility, the ability to work independently under varying conditions, and proficiency in complex pipe and structural welding required for installation, modification, and final tie-ins of mechanical systems. The Field Pipe Welder must strictly adhere to safety regulations, and all relevant industry codes (ASME, AWS).

Key Responsibilities
Site Welding and Installation

1. On-Site Execution: Perform high-integrity welding (SMAW, GTAW, FCAW) on piping systems, structural supports, hangers, and equipment skids in various field environments, including elevated platforms, trenches, and congested areas.
2. Tie-Ins and Repairs: Execute critical tie-ins of new piping systems to existing infrastructure, including performing hot taps and specialized repairs on live systems, ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations.
3. Code Compliance: Ensure all field welding procedures and completed work meet stringent quality assurance standards and applicable codes (e.g., ASME B31.1, B31.3, AWS D1.1).
4. Material Handling and Setup: Set up, and tear down welding equipment (e.g., engine-driven welders, plasma cutters, rigging) safely and efficiently at multiple job sites.
5. Preparation: Cut, fit, bevel, and prepare materials for welding to ensure proper alignment and joint gaps.

Safety and Coordination

1. Site Safety: Maintain an unwavering commitment to construction site safety, including rigorous adherence to site-specific safety plans, fall protection protocols, confined space procedures, and hot work permits.
2. Quality Control: Conduct visual inspection of welds, identify defects, and perform necessary repairs or grinding to ensure acceptance by quality control personnel and inspectors.
3. Communication: Communicate effectively with Site Superintendents, Foremen, other trades, and Project Managers regarding work progress, potential issues, and material needs.

Required Qualifications
Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of three (3) years of proven experience as a certified Field Welder, ideally within the commercial or industrial mechanical construction industry.
• Experience with rigging, hoisting, and safe operation of material handling equipment (e.g., forklifts, aerial lifts).

Skills and Certifications

• Core Welding Proficiency: Expert level proficiency in SMAW (Stick) and GTAW (TIG) on carbon steel and stainless steel pipe in all positions (especially 6G).
• Certifications: Current certification (or ability to pass immediate certification tests) for ASME Section IX pipe welding qualifications. AWS D1.1 structural certification is often required.
• Technical Skills: Exceptional ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams), isometric drawings, and welding procedure specifications (WPS).
• Safety Training: Current OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour Construction Safety certification.
• Mobility: Must possess reliable transportation to travel to various job sites daily.

Physical Requirements
This position requires working in a demanding construction environment, often outdoors, and involves significant physical labor.

• Ability to work at heights (on ladders, scaffolds, and lifts) and in confined spaces.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb, and perform heavy labor for the duration of a shift.
• Ability to lift and move equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to work in various weather conditions (heat, cold, rain).
• Excellent balance, coordination, and depth perception are essential for navigating construction sites.

McKenney's is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

Moving Safety Forward, our initiative for continuous improvements in our safety culture, reminds us that we are on a journey toward a zero-incident culture. In all we do, we must work to build a partnership with our employees, customers and business associates that empowers them all with the ability to do their jobs safely.

McKenney’s is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to workforce diversity. Qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to age, color, religion, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, or gender identity. McKenney’s is a smoke-free and drug-free workplace.