Once all the steel parts have been cut and the members cut to length, the welders and fabricators go to work.
“ We read the blueprints and shop drawings, lay out the parts, fit them and weld them up,” Keating explained.
The company needs certified welders who understand proper procedures and can read plans, he added.
He said that Fig Tree Steel could hire at least 16 fitters and fabricators immediately. The problem is that the company can’ t find enough employees with the skills it needs.
“ The company would like to add a second and third shift as we grow,” Keating said.“ It can be difficult to find people with the right training.”
Employees without training can start in the part room, Keating said. There, they can learn skills while earning a paycheck. They can be taught how to grind off the slag, a glassy deposit that forms a weld, and the ragged edges on pieces of steel. Those employees are then able to work their way up to welding and fitting.
In addition to certified welders, the company needs semi-truck drivers, qualified forklift operators, painters, assistant purchasing agents and estimators.
No matter what their job is at Fig Tree Steel, successful employees are organized and able to manage priorities, Thomas said.
“ You also need communication skills,” he added.“ You need to be able to cooperate with other people and work as a team.”
Fig Tree offers competitive pay with opportunities for raises based on experience and work ethic. The company also offers benefits for its employees including paid vacation time and health insurance.
For information on current career opportunities, visit www. figtreesteel. com.
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