Welder Apprentice

Ascent Aerospace – Inspiring the next generation of flight!

Ascent Aerospace is a world-renowned, single-source provider of production and automated assembly systems for the aerospace and defense industry. We provide high-precision advanced automated equipment as well as a full suite of both mold and assembly tooling required for the aerospace manufacturing market, including the largest Invar molds ever made— making us the largest tooling group in the industry. We work with our customers to develop their project and see it through, from process engineering to build and installation, to ensure it is an efficient and cost-effective solution. As a true, single-source integrator, we have proven tools to surpass our customer expectations. We have greater control of timing and schedules, which allows for 100% accountability, and avoids costly mark-ups, ultimately saving our customers money. The result: a group of businesses, each an industry leader within their own discipline, now acting as one truly integrated supply base.


SUMMARY OF POSITION
The Apprentice Welder works under the supervision of experienced journeyman welders to learn and apply the fundamentals of cutting, fitting, grinding, and welding metal materials according to blueprints and specifications. Through hands-on experience and classroom learning, apprentices progressively build proficiency in multiple welding processes, workplace safety, and fabrication techniques to become a certified Journeyman Welder upon program completion.


PROGRAM OVERVIEW
This is a U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)–registered apprenticeship program designed to develop skilled welders through a structured combination of on-the-job training (OJT) and related technical instruction (RTI) provided through an accredited community college partner. The program lasts approximately three years (6,000 hours OJT and 432 hours RTI) and provides progressive wage increases as skills and competencies are mastered.

Reasonable accommodations may be requested at any point for any of the below sections to enable applicants and employees the opportunity for inclusive, fair, and equal employment. For further details, please see SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS below!


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
This document in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying the position.
• Assist journeyman welders in performing cutting, fitting, grinding, and welding operations on a variety of metal materials.
• Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) to determine proper welding methods and setups.
• Prepare and align metal parts by cleaning, grinding, and clamping prior to welding.
• Learn and apply MIG, TIG, and other welding processes for steel, aluminum, and Invar 36 components.
• Set up and operate welding and cutting equipment safely and effectively under supervision.
• Maintain tools, equipment, and workspace in clean and safe condition.
• Inspect welds for quality and accuracy, identifying and correcting defects.
• Demonstrate commitment to safety procedures, personal protective equipment (PPE), and 5S housekeeping standards.
• Participate in structured on-the-job training and classroom instruction as required by the DOL apprenticeship standards.
• Progressively assume greater independence and responsibility as skills and competencies develop.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors or mentors.


REQUIRED SKILLS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE
Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful job performance will be considered. Typical qualifications would be:
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Must be eligible to participate in a DOL-registered apprenticeship program, including completion of enrollment requirements with the designated community college or training provider.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in welding or fabrication trades.
• Excellent hand-eye coordination and attention to detail.
• Commitment to following safety rules, procedures, and PPE requirements.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Physically able to lift, bend, and stand for extended periods.


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• Previous experience with hand tools, grinders, or shop equipment.
• Basic familiarity with welding symbols, blueprints, and measuring tools (tape measure, calipers, micrometers).
• Completion of an introductory welding or manufacturing course is a plus.


PROGRAM BENEFITS
• Paid on-the-job training while earning college credits toward a DOL-recognized credential.
• Structured wage progression based on demonstrated skills and academic performance.
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