Structural Welder

RK Industries•Santa Teresa, NM

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Welders are the foundation of our fabrication excellence, ensuring every metal joint, structure, and assembly meets the highest quality standards. From structural steel to advanced modular builds, your welding skills directly contribute to the durability, safety, and performance of our projects. Whether you're just starting out or taking on more complex assignments, RK offers a pathway to sharpen your abilities and grow your career. As a Welder, you'll work with industry-leading equipment, be part of a strong team, and have opportunities to expand your knowledge in one of the most critical trades on the shop floor. This role is more than fabrication, it’s about precision, accountability, and pride in building structures that last. “ Whether you're honing your skills or stepping into a more advanced role, you’ll find opportunities to learn, lead, and thrive. With competitive pay, a $1,000 sign-on bonus, up to $7,500 in relocation assistance, and access to cutting-edge training and tools, RK is where your career can truly take shape.” RK Industries is a second-generation family-owned company led by brothers Rick and Jon Kinning. With seven specialized business units working together, we deliver construction, fabrication, manufacturing, and building services with a focus on safety, quality, and craftsmanship. People join RK for the craftsmanship, complexity, and the ability to make a real impact. Our in-house capabilities mean employees see their ideas become real solutions, creating meaningful collaboration and clear visibility into how work gets built. Growth happens through challenging projects, mentorship from experienced builders, and opportunities that stretch your skill set. With RK University, accredited apprenticeships, competitive benefits, and deep community investment, RK offers the stability of a family-owned company with the opportunity and momentum of an industry leader. Position Summary Performs the full range of welding tasks required in the fabrication of structural and miscellaneous metal components. Welders are responsible for interpreting blueprints, operating trade-specific machinery, and executing quality welds in accordance with project specifications and safety standards. This position is classified into Welder 1, Welder 2, or Welder 3 based on certifications, experience, and demonstrated capabilities. Currently offering a $1,000 sign-on bonus and up to $7,500 in relocation assistance.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent; technical education or certification is a plus.
3-5 years of experience in welding and metal processing (FCAW, MIG).
Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to successfully operate proven fixtures.
Perform duties that are generally structured and recurring in nature.
Follow established objectives, guidelines, and standard operating procedures.
Demonstrate strong mechanical aptitude and proficiency in operating established fixtures and tools.
Demonstrate excellent problem-solving skills and can work independently when required
Maintain high attention to detail and precision.
Contribute effectively to a team under the general supervision of an experienced professional or manager.
Read and interpret process sheets, cut lists, tolerances, and basic technical drawings/blueprints.
Perform intermediate-level mathematical calculations as needed for the role
5-10 years of experience in welding, metal processing, and structural fitting.
Fit beams, columns and misc. metals
Demonstrate sound judgment and take initiative in troubleshooting and recommend effective solutions.
Provide mentorship and guidance to junior fitters.
Proficient in reading technical documents and blueprints.
Perform intermediate-level mathematical calculations including trigonometry and geometry.
Demonstrate an understanding of continuous improvement initiatives and actively participate in Lean and Continuous Improvement process enhancements.
10+ years of experience in welding, metal processing, and structural fitting.
Certified in SMAW, FCAW, GMAW (all positions).
Experience in COBOT programming.
Experience in AutoCAD.
Design and build semi-automated fixtures.
Design and setup fitting and welding assembly lines.
Fit complex curving of rails, stairs and canopies.
Design immediate fixtures.
Skilled in welding in confined spaces using mirrors.
Fully program welding robots and operate AutoCAD.
Advanced mechanical aptitude to coordinate own tasks with a specific range of responsibilities under established procedures.
Operate independently with minimal supervision.
Read advanced technical documents and blueprints.
Perform advanced-level mathematical calculations including trigonometry and geometry.
Manage individual responsibilities within defined parameters, ensuring alignment with established processes.
Collaborate with the shop foreman to ensure production targets are achieved efficiently and on schedule.
Communicate job status to shop superintendent.
Read blueprints with ISO, European standards and raw contract drawings.
Skilled in hand drafting and sketches.
Lead small teams and contribute to advanced complexity continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean and Continuous Improvement projects

Responsibilities

Must be able to pass 3G/ FCAW, 1G/ GMAW- MC and 3G/ GMAW-SC
Produce high-quality products in accordance with established standards and procedures.
Read and interpret labels, job orders, and drawings to determine appropriate equipment and sequence of operations.
Inspect products for compliance and document results; maintain equipment as required.
Work collaboratively with team members to meet production schedules and performance goals.
Operate lift trucks and overhead cranes safely and efficiently.
Accurately use measuring tools, including tape measures.
Adhere to all safety protocols and shop regulations.
Support continuous improvement efforts through Lean and Six Sigma practices.
Perform other duties as assigned.