Company Description
Thornton Engineering is a family-owned company established in 1975, specialising in the design and fabrication of high-quality steel products for major projects across various industries in Australia.
We provide a supportive and collaborative working environment for our highly skilled and passionate team of engineers to deliver exceptional results. We are committed to empowering our employees to reach their full potential through continuous learning and creativity. Join our team and be a part of our exciting journey to produce a diverse range of steel products.
Job Description
Are you a welder or steel fabricator looking to step into the future of production? We’re expanding our Heavy Plate Work Division and seeking a Robotic Operator for our afternoon shift. If you’re hands-on, enjoy working with cutting-edge technology, and have a background in welding or fabrication, this is your chance to shine.
As a Robotic Operator, you’ll work under our experienced Robotic Welding Programmers to operate one of the largest robotic welding machines in the world—a dual-robot gantry system, with each robot equipped with tandem arc welding capabilities. You’ll be producing large-scale components for major infrastructure projects, heavy plate work, and structural steel assemblies, playing a key role in delivering high-quality outcomes for some of Australia’s most demanding projects.
No robotics experience? No problem—we’ll train you on the job. You’ll be part of a high-tech, fast-paced, and supportive environment.
Before beginning your afternoon shift role, you’ll complete an extensive training period on day shift, working side-by-side with our lead robotic operator. This will give you the opportunity to learn the system, equipment, and procedures in depth. Once you’re fully confident, you’ll transition into the sole operator on the afternoon shift, supported by our broader team.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Extensive experience in welding (manual or robotic), or structural steel fabrication.
• Mechanically minded with an aptitude for troubleshooting.
• Basic computer skills to navigate robotic interfaces (training provided).
• High attention to detail with a commitment to quality.
• Strong communicator and team player.
• Physically capable of handling structural components and standing for long periods

• Operate a dual-robot gantry welding system with tandem arc capabilities to fabricate structural steel components.
• Follow programmed instructions from Robotic Welding Programmers to ensure consistent, high-quality welds.
• Perform setup, calibration, and maintenance of robotic welding bays.
• Conformance to weld procedures and AS1554 welding standards.
• Maintain communication with the production team to ensure workflow and resolve issues.
• Uphold workplace safety protocols and maintain a clean, organised environment.