AGW Welder Journeyperson

Matrix Service Company•Anacortes, WA

41d•Onsite

About The Position

The AGW Welder is responsible for the setup, operation, monitoring, and maintenance of Automatic Girth Welding (AGW) equipment used in the construction, repair, and modification of aboveground storage tanks. The role involves welding horizontal shell seams and other designated joints using automated welding systems in accordance with approved Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), project requirements, and applicable industry codes including API 650, API 653, and AWS standards. The AGW Welder works closely with fitters, welding foremen, inspectors, and quality personnel to ensure safe, efficient, and code-compliant tank construction.

Requirements

Minimum 3–5 years of industrial welding experience.
Minimum 1–3 years of AGW or automated welding system experience.
Demonstrated experience in aboveground storage tank construction.
Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and welding symbols.
Knowledge of welding processes including FCAW, GMAW, and SMAW.
Ability to pass project-specific welding qualification tests.
Valid welder qualification tests for applicable welding processes.
Ability to read and understand welding symbols and fabrication drawings.
Extensive API 650 tank construction experience.
API 653 tank repair and alteration experience.
Experience with automated tank shell welding systems.
Prior experience on large field-erected storage tank projects.
Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces.
Ability to travel and work extended shifts, overtime, weekends, and remote project locations as required.
Must have a positive outlook; willing to work as a team and independently.
Must possess hard work ethic and willingness to learn new things.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Nice To Haves

NCCER Welding Certification is preferred.

Responsibilities

Operate automatic welding systems using FCAW or GMAW processes as specified.
Verify weld quality through visual inspection throughout welding operations.
Ensure compliance with approved WPS requirements.
Monitors preheat and interpass temperatures when required.
Perform start-stop repairs and defect corrections.
Assemble and position AGW equipment on tank shell courses.
Maintain welding heads, wire feeders, control panels, and track systems.
Identify and report equipment malfunctions.
Perform preventive maintenance tasks as assigned.
Set up, calibrate, operate, and troubleshoot AGW equipment used for tank shell welding.
Perform automatic welding of shell-to-shell circumferential joints on aboveground storage tanks.
Verify joint preparation, fit-up, alignment, and bevel configuration prior to welding.
Ensure welding parameters including voltage, amperage, travel speed, oscillation, and wire feed speed are properly established and maintained.
Monitor welding operations to ensure weld quality and productivity objectives are achieved.
Read and interpret welding procedures, construction drawings, weld maps, and fabrication specifications.
Perform weld repairs as directed by Quality Control personnel.
Coordinate with fitters and erection crews to maintain production schedules.
Conduct pre-operation equipment inspections and routine maintenance.
Support troubleshooting and perform minor equipment repairs.
Maintain accurate welding documentation and production records.
Support non-destructive examination (NDE) activities including RT, UT, MT, and PT inspections.
Follow all company, client, and regulatory safety requirements.
Participate in Job Hazard Analyses (JHA), toolbox meetings, and safety training activities.
Perform all other job-related duties as requested by supervision.