Weld Workforce Development Leader

Weld Workforce Development Leader American Rheinmetall is a leader in the design, development, and production of advanced tracked and wheeled vehicles, vehicle systems, and critical components that support U.S. military modernization. Our expertise spans electronic and mechanical systems, fabricated structures, armored products, rubber solutions, and track systems, delivering reliable innovation to both defense and commercial markets. As part of the global Rheinmetall family, we combine proven heritage with forward-looking technology to provide solutions that defend and feed the world.

Job Summary:

The Weld Workforce Development Leader is responsible for owning, developing, and continuously improving the weld training program across all American Rheinmetall facilities. This role ensures the delivery of a structured, effective, and scalable weld training program that produces highly skilled, production-ready welders. This position goes beyond training and is accountable for improving welder performance, engagement, and retention. The role partners cross-functionally with Production, Quality, Engineering, and Human Resources to align training with operational needs and business objectives.

Essential Functions:

Leadership & Program OwnershipOwn and continuously improve the Welder Development Program (WDP) to meet production, quality, and business requirementsEstablish standardized training methods, skill progression criteria, and certification requirements across all locationsDrive measurable improvements in welder retention, engagement, and long-term developmentEnsure alignment between training outcomes and production expectationsPartner with Production to ensure welders are prepared for real-world job demandsCollaborate with Quality to align training with weld standards and defect reduction goalsWork with HR to support onboarding, development, and retention strategiesSupport internal and external audits, including responding to customer training-related requirementsAssist supervisors, as needed, with certification processes such as overhead crane and forklift training Team Development and Performance ManagementDeliver and oversee classroom and hands-on welding training across all skill levelsTrain, test, and evaluate welders to ensure readiness for certification and production workProvide coaching, feedback, and individualized development plansIdentify struggling welders early and implement targeted development plansDevelop training materials, lesson plans, mock-ups, and instructional aidsConduct make-up sessions and supplemental training as neededTrack and report key program metrics, including:

Welder progression and certification statusTime to competencyRetention ratesTraining effectiveness and production readinessMaintain accurate training and certification records in Plex, Socrative, and related systemsProvide monthly reporting and participate in bi-weekly training meetingsIdentify performance gaps and implement corrective actions Operations, Compliance & SafetyMaintain training equipment, tools, and supply inventory, including ordering as requiredEnsure training environments are clean, organized, and professionalStore training aids and materials in approved locationsEnsure all training activities comply with company policies, procedures, and safety standardsMaintain required certifications (e.g., CWI) and program compliance requirementsPromote and enforce safe work practices in both classroom and shop environmentsEnsure all trainees follow established policies, procedures, and safety expectationsConduct required evaluations, including annual welder eye exams

Education & Experience:

High school diploma or G.E.D. requiredMinimum of 5 years of welding experience in a production and/or training environmentExperience in training, coaching, or developing employees preferred CertificationsActive Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) requiredLapsed certifications must be reinstated within 90 days of hireCertified Welding Educator (CWE) preferred; required within 12-18 months of hireMust maintain all required certifications in accordance with company and industry standards

Background Prerequisites:

Must undergo and meet company standards for background check, employment verification, reference checks, physical, and controlled substance testing.

Preferred Qualifications:

Certified Welding Educator (CWE) or demonstrated experience developing structured training programsExperience building, improving, or scaling a workforce development or training program in a manufacturing environmentStrong understanding of production welding challenges, including variability, throughput, and real-world application of weld standardsProven ability to coach, mentor, and develop employees across varying skill levels, including entry-level and experienced weldersExperience identifying performance gaps and implementing targeted development plans to improve skill and retentionExperience improving employee retention or training effectiveness metrics within a manufacturing environmentFamiliarity with regulated manufacturing environments (AS9100, ISO14001, or similar)Experience using ERP or training tracking systems (Plex, Socrative, or similar) to manage workforce development and certification trackingDemonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with Production, Quality, and HR to drive alignment and resultsStrong communication skills with the ability to engage both shop floor employees and leadershipExperience supporting customer or third-party audits related to welding or training programs

Performance Expectations:

Success in this role will be demonstrated through:

Improved welder retention and engagement across all locationsReduced time to competency and increased effectiveness of the Welder Development Program (WDP)Consistent training standards and delivery across all facilitiesImproved weld quality and reduction in training-related defectsStrong alignment between training outcomes and production needsPositive feedback from welders, supervisors, and cross-functional partners Working Conditions and Physical DemandsWith or without reasonable accommodation, the employee must be able to perform all essential job functions.

Work EnvironmentCombination of classroom, office, and manufacturing/shop floor environmentsExposure to shop conditions including noise, heat, fumes, and welding operationsClose proximity to moving equipment and other personnelRequired use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in designated areas Travel & Schedule RequirementsOccasional travel to other American Rheinmetall facilitiesAbility to work across multiple shifts (days and nights) to support training and evaluation needs as needed. Physical RequirementsFrequent standing and walkingOccasional SittingOccasional bending, stooping, and reachi https://www.click2apply.net/djnB26TOXmZJ4cp5HEJ2x How to Apply Apply Now