Steel Welding Supervisor

About the Role

What You'll Do

• Lead and coordinate daily operations of the steel welding department
• Plan, prioritize, and manage production schedules to meet project deadlines
• Monitor staffing levels and adjust workforce to maintain productivity
• Supervise, hire, train, evaluate, and support welding team members
• Maintain employee records, evaluations, and disciplinary documentation
• Ensure production goals for cost, quality, and output are consistently met
• Coordinate with 2nd shift and weekend supervisors to ensure continuity
• Inspect fit-ups, tank shells, and completed welds for quality and compliance
• Manage material flow to support continuous production
• Request and manage supplies, tools, and equipment
• Partner with Production Manager on outsourcing needs when required
• Recommend improvements to processes, equipment, and product quality
• Oversee maintenance and proper operation of welding equipment
• Perform and support hands-on welding, layout, and plasma cutting as needed
• Ensure welds meet airtight, watertight, and fuel-tight standards
• Read and interpret blueprints, weld schedules, and technical drawings
• Collaborate with QA/QC and inspection teams to ensure compliance
• Enforce safety protocols and proper use of PPE and equipment
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and identify defective materials

Must-Have Skills and Experience

• Minimum 5 years of welding experience in a shipyard, marine, or heavy industrial environment
• Minimum 2 years of supervisory or leadership experience
• AWS or ABS welding certification required
• Strong knowledge of welding processes (MIG, TIG, flux-core, etc.)
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, weld symbols, and technical specifications
• Experience managing production schedules and workforce planning
• Hands-on experience with welding equipment, tools, and fabrication processes
• Strong understanding of safety standards and industrial best practices
• Experience inspecting weld quality and ensuring compliance with specifications
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (basic reporting and tracking)

Nice-to-Have Skills

• Experience in shipbuilding or marine vessel repair
• Familiarity with automated welding equipment
• Experience working with QA/QC teams and inspection authorities
• Knowledge of air-arc gouging and advanced fabrication techniques
• Prior experience managing budgets or departmental performance metrics

Who You Are

• A hands-on leader who leads from the floor and supports the team directly
• Organized and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and safety
• A proactive problem-solver who can adjust quickly to production demands
• Accountable and reliable, with a strong sense of ownership over team performance

Additional Details

• Schedule: First Shift
• Salary Range: Starting at $35/hour (based on experience)
• Travel: None specified
• Certifications: AWS or ABS Welding Certification required