Maintenance Fabricator - 1st Shift

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub.

Have a seat at our table. When you join Smithfield, you become part of something special – a company that's sustainably feeding people around the world, producing good food the right way with respect for our people, animals, communities and planet. With opportunities across locations and functions, a culture grounded in our Core Four values - gratitude, communication, respect and accountability - and a strong commitment to learning, collaboration, and innovation, Smithfield offers challenging and rewarding careers where you can grow, contribute and make a real impact. Apply Now!

Your Opportunity  

Our team members receive industry-leading wages and are eligible for great benefits packages:   

• Competitive Starting Pay - $30.16-$41.87/hr   
• Comprehensive Health Insurance, Retirement Benefits and More  
• Education benefit available to full and part-time Smithfield team members upon meeting eligibility requirements 

In addition, we offer opportunities for career growth, professional development, and tuition assistance.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:  

Responsibilities and tasks are written as follows: 

• Fabricate new machine components, guards, frames, conveyors, platforms, brackets, and structural assemblies using  shop drawings, sketches, or verbal instructions.  
• Repair damaged or worn equipment components through welding, cutting, machining, grinding, and fabrication techniques.  
• Modify existing equipment to improve safety, reliability, and operational performance.  
• Manufacture replacement parts when commercial parts are unavailable or lead times negatively impact operations.  
• Assist in equipment installation, teardown, rebuilds, and major maintenance projects. 
• Demonstrate a strong sense of urgency in responding to equipment failures and production needs.  
• Maintain high-quality workmanship and attention to detail on all fabrication and repair projects.  
• Be available to work extended shifts, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-ins when business needs require equipment restoration.  
• Prioritize safety while balancing production and maintenance requirements.  
• Work collaboratively with production, maintenance, engineering, and management teams.  
• Consistently seek innovative solutions to improve equipment reliability and reduce downtime.  
• Maintain a positive attitude and professional conduct while performing under pressure during plant emergencies.  
• Support continuous improvement efforts and contribute ideas that enhance safety, quality, efficiency, and cost savings. 
• Demonstrate strong teamwork, communication, and customer service toward all plant departments.  
• Drive continuous improvement and cost savings through innovative fabrication solutions. 
• Maintain clean and organized work areas to eliminate trip, slip, and fall hazards. 

• Performs other duties as assigned by the Crew Leader and Supervisor. 

QUALIFICATIONS: 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.   

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and completion of a formal trades training program or an equivalent number of years of educational and maintenance experience.  

• Minimum 3-5 years of industrial fabrication, welding, or machine shop experience.  
• Proficiency in welding processes including TIG, MIG and Stick welding.  
• Experience operating fabrication and machine shop equipment.  
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.  
• Ability to read blueprints, fabrication drawings, and mechanical schematics.  
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.  
• Valid driver's license or ability to operate mobile equipment as required. 
• Ability to work well with others in fast paced, dynamic environment.  

• Good verbal and written English skills required. 
• Industrial manufacturing or food processing plant experience.  
• Knowledge of conveyor systems, packaging equipment, pumps, motors, gearboxes, and pneumatic systems. 
• Experience with stainless steel fabrication and sanitary welding practices. 

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT: 

• Hand tools, Power Tools, Manual lathes, Milling machines, Drill presses, Hydraulic Press, Band saws and chop saws, and Precision measuring instruments including calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, and height gauges 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT: 

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• Noise level is loud in the production area and hearing protection is always required. 

• Must be able to lift up to 60lbs. 

• Ability to walk and use stairs frequently through the shift. 
• Stand, walk, bend, kneel, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces.  
• Operate hand tools, power tools, welding equipment, and machine shop equipment.  
• Work in manufacturing environments that may include heat, cold, noise, dust, and varying production conditions. 

SAFETY EQUIPMENT/TRAINING REQUIREMENT: 

• Bump cap, hair/beardnet, eye protection/goggles, hand protection, hearing protection, properly insulated tools, LOTO equipment, respirator and steel-toe safety shoes 

MANDATORY TRAINING/COMPETENCY TO BE EARNED: 

• Emergency Response (First Aid, CPR and various others), Proper lifting, Lock/Tag/Try Authorized, Aerial Scissor Lift, Forklift, Boom Lift, Elevator, and PPE. 

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EEO Information

Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

Check out this video to learn more about this role!