Tank Welder - Subject Matter Expert (Abilene)

Essential Functions

Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and dependable Subject Matter Expert (SME) – Tank Welding to serve as the primary technical expert for tank welding processes, standards, training, and continuous improvement. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with leadership responsibilities, including mentoring welders, troubleshooting complex welding issues, and collaborating with Engineering, Quality, and Training teams. This position may also fill in for Leads or Supervisors during planned absences.

Technical Expertise & Support

• Serve as the primary expert on tank welding processes, material preparation, and best practices.
• Guide welders in interpreting blueprints, drawings, and work orders accurately.
• Train welders on correct setup, operation, and maintenance of welding equipment.
• Recommend appropriate welding methods, filler materials, and procedures based on tank requirements.
• Inspect and ensure all welds meet structural, quality, and JTS standards.
• Troubleshoot complex tank issues and identify root causes to reduce rework.
• Onboard and train new welders on proper techniques, tool usage, and safety procedures.
• Partner with the training team to help create or contribute to work instructions, SOPs, and visual aids.
• Serve as a mentor and knowledge resource for the team, promoting skill development and cross-training.
• Monitor and uphold high standards for tank quality and accuracy.
• Ensure consistent application of safety practices and PPE usage.
• Support adherence to company and industry standards for tank assembly.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and production planning teams to ensure smooth workflows and timely delivery.
• Identify and support opportunities for lean manufacturing and 5S initiatives.
• Work to improve the overall quality and efficiency of the tank areas using metrics and other data points.
• Occasionally work in other areas of the plant to gain a broader understanding of the business.
• Other duties as assigned.

Process & Quality Ownership

• Troubleshoot complex welding issues and implement corrective actions.
• Recommend improvements to welding processes, fixtures, and tooling.
• Ensure completion and accuracy of weld inspections, quality checklists, and required documentation.
• Work with Engineering and Quality teams to support ISO-oriented quality systems and process accuracy.

Training & Mentorship

• Onboard and train new welders in welding techniques, material preparation, and safety practices.
• Assist the Training Team in developing SOPs, visual aids, and instructional materials.
• Serve as a mentor and subject-matter resource for welders seeking skill advancement.

Safety, Compliance & Workplace Standards

• Champion PPE use, welding safety practices, and hazard awareness.
• Maintain a clean, organized workspace aligned with 5S principles.
• Support safety programs and ensure full compliance with all safety regulations.

Cross-Functional Support & Continuous Improvement

• Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Planning, and Quality to achieve schedule goals.
• Identify areas of waste and workflow inefficiency to support lean manufacturing improvements.
• Assist other departments as needed to support broader production efforts.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Attributes

Core Values:

• Have Humanity: Look out for fellow welders and team members by promoting safety, respect, and teamwork—ensuring everyone goes home safely.
• Be Transparent: Communicate openly about weld quality, material prep, defects, and process challenges so the team can stay aligned and improve together.
• Drive Innovation: Continuously seek better welding techniques, improved joint prep methods, enhanced fixturing, and process efficiencies that elevate product quality.
• Be Resilient: Maintain focus, adaptability, and steady performance while working through demanding weld sequences, tight deadlines, and production changes.
• Always Reliable: Deliver consistent, high-quality welds and reliable support as the subject-matter expert—your team trusts your judgment and dependability.
• Grit: Bring determination and strong work ethic into every weld, every inspection, and every challenge faced in a heavy manufacturing environment.

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• 3+ years of tank or structural welding experience in manufacturing.
• Proficient with MIG (.045 wire), stick (7024 rod), and general welding equipment.
• Skilled in reading blueprints, weld symbols, and technical specifications.
• Ability to train and mentor welders in a production environment.
• Strong accuracy, hand–eye coordination, and welding inspection capabilities.
• Knowledge of PPE requirements, welding safety practices, and compliance expectations.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and push/pull up to 100 lbs.; frequent kneeling, standing, and stooping.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.
• Fast-paced, hands-on heavy manufacturing environment
• Frequent use of welding equipment, grinders, hoists, and power tools
• Standing, climbing, lifting, and moving throughout the day <]]>