A Welding Engineer develops welding techniques and equipment for use in metal fabrication and product manufacturing. Researches welding techniques and engineers welding equipment and processes.
Ethridge, TN Position Overview We are seeking a highly skilled Weld Engineer to provide technical leadership and expertise in welding processes, equipment, automation, and quality systems within a manufacturing environment. This role will support production operations, quality initiatives, new product launches, and continuous improvement efforts by optimizing welding processes, improving product quality, and increasing operational efficiency. The successful candidate will evaluate and enhance existing welding systems, troubleshoot complex manufacturing challenges, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to support production goals and customer requirements. Key Responsibilities Provide technical welding expertise to manufacturing, quality, laboratory, and engineering teams. Support welding laboratory activities, including testing, process validation, documentation, and compliance requirements. Evaluate and improve welding processes, tooling, fixtures, and production equipment. Analyze and optimize manual and robotic welding operations to improve quality, throughput, and reliability. Develop, validate, and maintain weld parameters, process settings, and operating standards. Troubleshoot weld defects, equipment issues, dimensional concerns, and process variability. Lead and participate in root cause investigations and corrective action activities. Support robotic welding cells and automated manufacturing systems. Assist with the selection, installation, commissioning, and validation of new welding equipment and technologies. Develop and maintain welding procedures, work instructions, technical specifications, and process documentation. Conduct weld quality evaluations, process capability studies, and performance assessments. Collaborate with production, maintenance, quality, tooling, suppliers, and project teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives. Support customer requirements, audits, production trials, and new product launch activities. Train production, technical, and quality personnel on welding standards, procedures, and best practices. Drive improvements in cycle time, uptime, scrap reduction, rework reduction, product quality, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Welding Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. Equivalent hands-on welding engineering experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. Strong knowledge of welding processes, weld quality standards, and manufacturing operations. Experience with robotic and automated welding systems. Hands-on experience with one or more of the following: Resistance Spot Welding MIG Welding GMAW Projection Welding Other automated joining technologies Experience troubleshooting welding equipment, process issues, and quality concerns. Ability to interpret engineering drawings, weld symbols, GD&T requirements, and technical specifications. Knowledge of weld testing methodologies, including destructive and non-destructive evaluation techniques. Understanding of metallurgical principles related to welding and material performance. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, project management, and problem-solving skills. Excellent verbal and written communication abilities. Preferred Qualifications Experience within an automotive manufacturing environment. Experience programming, troubleshooting, or supporting industrial welding robots. Familiarity with ABB and/or Yaskawa robotic welding systems. Experience supporting new product launches and manufacturing process development. Knowledge of lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and structured problem-solving methodologies. Experience working with suppliers, equipment integrators, and cross-functional manufacturing teams.
