Welder Apprentice

XLT Ovens•Wichita, KS

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Welder Apprentice plays a critical support role by preparing everything the welder needs to complete jobs safely, efficiently, and with the highest quality. This position ensures materials, parts, tools, fixtures, and work areas are ready before welding begins, allowing welders to remain productive throughout the day. This is an entry-level position designed for individuals who want to build a career in manufacturing and ultimately become a welder. The successful candidate will learn welding fundamentals through hands-on training while demonstrating a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Requirements

Mechanical aptitude.
Ability to read a tape measure accurately.
Basic math skills.
Ability to use common hand and power tools.
Willingness to learn welding.
Dependable attendance.
Positive attitude and strong work ethic.
Stand and walk for up to 10 hours per shift.
Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, squat, and reach.
Lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
Push and pull carts of material.
Use grinders, hand tools, and power tools safely.
Wear required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and welding PPE as required.
Basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide)
Read, speak, and write English clearly
Convey information effectively and judge distances, shapes, and fits

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or GED preferred.
Manufacturing experience preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Abide by the company’s Quality Management System
Prioritize customer satisfaction and maintain compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements
Protect the company’s assets, reputation, goodwill, and marketplace stature at all costs
Stage all materials, components, and hardware for upcoming welding jobs.
Read production schedules and prepare work before the welder needs it.
Gather, organize, and verify parts against work orders and engineering drawings.
Clean, grind, deburr, and prepare materials prior to welding.
Load and unload fixtures, jigs, and welding tables.
Keep welders supplied with materials throughout the shift to minimize downtime.
Transport completed weldments to the next operation.
Maintain an organized welding area using 5S and Lean principles.
Assist with material movement using carts, pallet jacks, or forklifts (when certified).
Maintain welding consumables including wire, shielding gas, tips, nozzles, and grinding discs.
Perform basic equipment cleaning and daily maintenance.
Remove slag, spatter, and excess material from completed weldments.
Verify parts are clean and ready for inspection.
Report shortages, damaged material, or production concerns immediately.
Assist welders with fixture setup and positioning of large assemblies.
Learn blueprint reading, measuring techniques, welding symbols, and fabrication processes.
Cross-train in MIG welding and fabrication as skills develop.
Follow all safety, quality, and company procedures.
Perform other duties as assigned.