Storage Tank Welders

Job Description

Job Description

Storage Tank Welders

Position Summary

The Storage Tank Welder is responsible for the fabrication, assembly, repair, and field erection of welded steel storage tanks in accordance with API 650, AWWA D-100, AWS, company quality standards, and project specifications. This position requires proficiency in welding carbon steel plate, structural steel, and tank components while maintaining a strong commitment to safety, quality, and productivity.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Welding & Fabrication

• Perform FCAW, SMAW, and GMAW welding on carbon steel storage tanks and structural components.
• Weld shell plates, roof plates, bottom plates, nozzles, manways, reinforcement pads, ladders, stairways, platforms, and structural attachments.
• Read and interpret fabrication drawings, welding symbols, blueprints, and shop sketches.
• Lay out, fit, tack, and weld components to required tolerances.
• Perform vertical, horizontal, overhead, and flat-position welding.
• Maintain weld quality in accordance with approved Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS).

Tank Construction

• Fabricate API 650 and AWWA D-100 storage tanks.
• Install shell courses, roof structures, and bottom plates.
• Weld roof framing, rafters, columns, and compression rings.
• Install nozzles, manways, roof vents, overflow assemblies, ladders, platforms, and appurtenances.
• Perform field welding during tank erection and repairs as required.

Quality Control

• Produce welds that meet project specifications and applicable code requirements.
• Conduct visual inspections of completed welds.
• Correct weld discontinuities as directed.
• Assist with non-destructive examination (NDE) activities, including radiographic (RT), magnetic particle (MT), ultrasonic (UT), and liquid penetrant (PT) testing.
• Maintain high workmanship standards and minimize rework.

Equipment Operation

• Operate welding machines and associated equipment safely.
• Use oxy-fuel cutting equipment, plasma cutters, grinders, and magnetic drills.
• Safely operate forklifts, scissor lifts, boom lifts, and overhead cranes when authorized.
• Perform routine maintenance and inspection of welding equipment.

Safety

• Follow all OSHA regulations and company safety policies.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Participate in daily job safety meetings and hazard assessments.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas.
• Report unsafe conditions and incidents immediately.
• Follow confined space, hot work, and fall protection procedures.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of welding experience in heavy steel fabrication, storage tanks, pressure vessels, or structural steel.
• Experience with API 650 storage tank fabrication or field erection preferred.
• Ability to read blueprints and welding symbols.
• Ability to pass company welding qualification tests.
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug test.
• Valid driver's license preferred.

Preferred Certifications

• AWS Certified Welder
• API 650 welding experience
• OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety
• Forklift and aerial lift certifications (if applicable)

Required Skills

• Proficiency with FCAW, SMAW, and GMAW welding processes.
• Strong blueprint reading and layout skills.
• Ability to accurately fit and assemble steel components.
• Knowledge of welding distortion control and proper fit-up techniques.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
• Ability to stand, kneel, bend, climb, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
• Ability to climb ladders, scaffolding, and elevated work platforms.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to wear respirators, welding helmets, fall protection equipment, and other required PPE.

Work Environment

• Fabrication shop and outdoor construction sites.
• Exposure to welding fumes, grinding dust, noise, heat, and changing weather conditions.
• Frequent overtime, weekend work, and travel may be required to meet project schedules.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Weld quality and first-pass acceptance rate.
• Productivity and schedule adherence.
• Compliance with welding procedures and quality standards.
• Safety performance and attendance.
• Equipment cares and maintenance.
• Teamwork and communication.
• Minimal rework and repair rates.

Reporting Relationship

Reports To: Shop Foreman, Welding Supervisor, or Field Superintendent

Works Closely With: Fitters, Fabricators, Quality Control Inspectors, Project Managers, and Field Crews

Benefits

w ages ($36 to $45 per hour)

Overtime (Often 50-60 hours/week during peak construction)

7-day perdiem and travel pay

Health, Dental, and Eye Insurance (after 60 days of employment)

401K Plan (after 1 year employment)