POSITION OVERVIEW:

We are seeking a skilled Sanitary Welder to join our beverage processing team. This role is responsible for performing high-quality welding and fabrication of stainless steel piping systems, vessels, and equipment to strict hygienic standards required for beverage production. The Sanitary Welder ensures all welds meet industry regulations, internal specifications, and are suitable for food-grade and aseptic processes.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma, GED, or technical school certificate.
• Minimum 35 years of sanitary welding experience, preferably in beverage, dairy, food, or pharmaceutical processing industries.
• Proficient in TIG welding (1G6G positions) on thin-wall stainless steel tubing (e.g., 14 OD, 1618 gauge).
• Familiarity with ASME BPE (Bioprocessing Equipment) standards or 3-A Sanitary Standards is highly preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, schematics, weld maps, and fabrication drawings.
• Experienced with orbital welding equipment (automatic welding machines) is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail, cleanliness, and quality workmanship.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment under time-sensitive conditions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Comfortable working in confined spaces, at heights, and in varying temperature environments (cold rooms, hot areas).
• Standing, bending, kneeling, and climbing ladders for extended periods.

• Perform TIG (GTAW) welding on stainless steel tubing, piping, and sheet metal with food-grade, sanitary finishes (typically 304 and 316 SS).
• Fabricate, assemble, and install sanitary piping systems, tanks, and equipment according to P&ID diagrams, blueprints, and isometric drawings.
• Ensure all welds meet sanitary standards (e.g., no cracks, pits, inclusions, or crevices that could harbor bacteria).
• Conduct grinding, polishing, and passivation of welds to meet beverage industry hygiene requirements (e.g., RA 32 in or better).
• Inspect welds visually and with borescopes or dye penetrant testing as required.
• Follow 5S and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) in all work areas.
• Participate in plant shutdowns, new equipment installations, and modifications to existing beverage processing lines.
• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and maintenance teams to ensure system integrity and compliance.
• Maintain accurate welding logs, inspection reports, and documentation per QA/QC programs.
• Adhere strictly to safety protocols and lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures.