Welder II

Location: Idaho Falls, ID
Company: Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, Inc.
Employment Type: Full-time, Non-Exempt
Compensation: Competitive, based on experience

Company Overview

Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, Inc., headquartered in Richland, Washington, is a well-established small business with over 30 years of experience delivering comprehensive engineering and fabrication solutions. Our capabilities include engineering, design, fabrication, instrumentation and controls, electrical systems, and specialized technical services.

Columbia Energy supports both federal and commercial clients, with extensive experience delivering fixed-price design, build, and test projects. Our team is known for providing practical, client-focused solutions while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and technical precision.

We have expanded operations to Idaho Falls, Idaho, where we continue to grow our fabrication capabilities and support new project opportunities.

Why Join Columbia Energy

At Columbia Energy, we foster a collaborative and supportive work environment where employees have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects and grow professionally. As a small business with ambitious goals, we value initiative, teamwork, and the drive to make a positive impact.

This role offers the opportunity to work in a fabrication-focused environment at our Idaho Falls facility, supporting projects that require precision, craftsmanship, and strong attention to detail.

Position Summary

The Welder II is responsible for precision fabrication and welding of components, with a focus on stainless steel and other specialty materials. This role requires the ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and welding documentation, while working independently to determine proper weld sequencing and fabrication methods.

The Welder II performs layout, cutting, fitting, preparation, tack welding, and final welding of components using approved welding procedures. This position plays a key role in ensuring fabricated components meet drawing specifications, tolerances, and Columbia Energy’s quality standards.

This position is based at the Idaho Falls, ID facility and may occasionally require travel to field sites depending on project needs.

Welding & Fabrication Responsibilities

• Perform welding operations in accordance with qualified Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS).
• Weld precision parts and assemblies per welding symbols, project travelers, engineering drawings, and work orders.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, fabrication documentation, and welding symbols.
• Determine proper weld sequencing to minimize distortion and maintain dimensional accuracy.
• Select appropriate filler metals and shielding gases based on material requirements and WPS guidance.
• Fabricate weld fixtures when necessary to support complex welding operations.
• Successfully certify in two or more welding processes such as FCAW, GMAW, GTAW, or SMAW, including pre- and post-weld heating operations when required.
• Perform layout, cutting, fitting, preparation, tack welding, and final welding of fabricated components.
• Assemble mechanical equipment, structural components, and piping systems as required.

Quality & Compliance Responsibilities

• Perform self-verification of welded parts and assemblies prior to formal inspection.
• Measure workpieces to verify accuracy and compliance with project requirements.
• Interface with QA/QC personnel and support inspection activities as required.
• Maintain proper documentation, including weld records and fabrication documentation, throughout project completion.
• Remove burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale from workpieces.
• Report unsafe conditions, safety concerns, or equipment issues immediately.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of welding experience with documented welding qualifications
  OR
• Minimum of 1 year of welding experience combined with an Associate of Applied Science in Welding Technology (or equivalent training).
• Ability to successfully pass Columbia Energy welding qualification tests.
• Ability to safely operate fabrication tools, machinery, and shop equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and fabrication documentation.
• Ability to read a tape measure and perform arithmetic calculations required for layout and fabrication.
• Ability to travel to field sites when required by project needs.
• Reliable transportation to and from work.

Additional Requirements

• Must pass an employment verification process, background check, and drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with precision stainless steel fabrication and welding.
• Experience working within ASME Section VIII or NQA-1 quality programs.
• Experience performing welds subject to non-destructive testing such as ultrasonic testing (UT) or radiographic testing (RT).
• Ability to weld pipe, sheet metal, and structural steel.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Key Success Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Positive attitude contributing to a collaborative work environment.
• Ability to maintain a steady and productive work pace.
• Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative.
• Dependable and punctual.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, squat, and move throughout the workday.
• Frequent use of arms and hands to grasp, lift, move, and manipulate tools and materials.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to climb ladders, work from elevated platforms or man lifts, and occasionally work on open structures using appropriate fall protection.
• Ability to safely wear and use required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, respirators, gloves, and safety-toed footwear.
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions including hot, cold, and damp environments.

Work Environment

This position is performed primarily in a fabrication shop and industrial manufacturing environment at our Idaho Falls, Idaho facility. Work may occasionally occur in construction or field environments depending on project requirements.

The work atmosphere is fast-paced and deadline-driven, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and teamwork.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.