Fabrication Technician – Skid Assembly

The Mid-Level Fabrication Technician – Skid Assembly is responsible for assembling modular process skids with moderate supervision. This includes mounting mechanical equipment, fitting sanitary piping, and ensuring alignment with technical drawings and sanitary design standards. The technician applies intermediate knowledge of fabrication techniques and tools to support production of high-purity process systems used in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. The role includes collaboration with welders, engineers, and QA teams to ensure that skids meet mechanical, sanitary, and quality specifications.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Mechanical Assembly of Modular Process Skids

2. Sanitary Piping Layout and Fit-Up

3. Tool Operation and Fabrication Best Practices

4. Compliance with Sanitary Design Standards (ASME BPE, 3-A, GMP)

5. Support of Quality, Safety, and Continuous Improvement Initiatives

Key Responsibilities:

1. Skid and Mechanical Equipment Assembly

• Assemble and integrate structural frames, supports, and mechanical components for process skids.

• Install pumps, valves, filters, flowmeters, tanks, and instrumentation according to layout drawings and P&IDs.

• Ensure accurate fit and alignment of equipment for functional and aesthetic standards.

2. Sanitary Piping and Component Fit-Up

• Cut, prepare, and fit stainless steel tubing for welding or clamp connections.

• Assist orbital and TIG welders with accurate fit-up and tack welding prep.

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and care when handling sanitary components.

3. Tool and Equipment Proficiency

• Use tools including grinders, saws, tube benders, torque wrenches, levels, and alignment devices.

• Interpret fabrication drawings, piping schematics, and build instructions with moderate supervision.

• Ensure correct torque specifications and installation sequences during assembly.

4. Shop Organization and Workflow Support

• Collaborate with planners, warehouse staff, and QA personnel to coordinate material readiness.

• Keep accurate records of part usage, build progress, and daily activities.

• Maintain clean, organized, and safe workspaces in accordance with 5S and lean principles.

5. Quality and Compliance Support

• Perform basic dimensional and visual inspections of assembled components.

• Follow sanitary fabrication guidelines to prevent contamination and maintain surface finish integrity.

• Support quality audits, NCRs, and root cause investigations as required.

Qualifications:

• Technical diploma, trade school certification, or equivalent experience in mechanical or industrial fabrication.

• 2–5 years of hands-on experience in skid assembly, sanitary piping, or mechanical fabrication.

• Familiarity with sanitary fabrication codes and standards (ASME BPE, 3-A, AWS D18.1).

• Basic ability to read mechanical drawings and P&IDs.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, or high-purity environments.

• Familiarity with orbital welding setup and purge procedures.

• Understanding of torque specs, clean build techniques, and piping layout best practices.

• Ability to operate or assist with precision measurement tools.

Core Competencies:

• Intermediate mechanical assembly and fabrication skills

• Attention to detail and adherence to sanitary standards

• Teamwork and communication

• Organization and time management

• Continuous learning and adaptability