Automated Tig Welder

Company Description

Based in Congleton, Cheshire, Senior Bird Bellows was established in 1975 as a family run operation serving the petro-chemical and gas industries. Since then, we have evolved to become one of the industry leaders in the design, development and manufacture of pressure duct systems, flexible joints and insulation for highly regulated industries. We have established customers in aerospace (both civil and military), as well as in the nuclear, oil and gas, chemical and pharmaceutical sectors.

Job Description

Key duties and responsibilities:

1. Operate automated TIG welding machines
2. Programme and setup welding parameters
3. Select tools, check condition and set up in accordance with job card and/or work instructions, reporting any defective, broken or excessively worn tooling to the Team Leader.
4. Ensure that all tooling is correctly and safely stored and located after use.
5. Read and interpret engineering drawings and associated shop packet paperwork (ie Job Card, Kitting Lists and Work Instructions) in order to determine how products are to be correctly manufactured.
6. Ensure that all production related work activities and records comply with relevant quality standards and NADCAP requirements. This will include but may not be limited to a visual test and theoretical tests in line with associated standards.
7. Follow welding procedures and schedules to weld product in accordance with the information contained therein so that they are consistently produced and that quality is maintained.
8. Maintain a suitable qualified welder status by producing weld tests that pass the approvals required both internally and as specified by customer standards.
9. Follow all guidance on the controls of the welding process such as but not limited to NADCAP guidelines for identification of materials and filler wire control

Associated responsibilities:

1. Promote workspace organisation in accordance with Lean 5S principles and generally help to maintain a high standard of housekeeping throughout the factory.
2. Maintain a high standard of health and safety based upon safe working practices.
3. Ensure that all work activities and records comply with Company Policies, Procedures and Codes of Practice.
4. Adhere to company quality assurance procedures and reporting of any non-conformities.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have solid experience working within an engineering environment, with essential hands-on skills in automated TIG welding on thin materials, typically between 0.4mm and 3mm thick.

Whilst not mandatory, an NVQ Level 3 in Welding Engineering (apprenticeship route) is desirable, along with aerospace-standard welding approvals. The candidate must possess the ability to inspect work to both company and customer standards, read engineering drawings, follow job cards, and interpret welding procedures and schedules accurately.

Experience working with Titanium, Stainless Steel, and Nickel Alloys is preferred. The role demands someone who is enthusiastic, with a can-do attitude, able to work under pressure and meet deadlines, with good eyesight (correctable) and excellent hand-eye coordination. The ability to learn a range of processes within the business is essential, and willingness to work additional hours when required is also desirable.

Additional Information

We offer a supportive and rewarding work environment that values your wellbeing and work-life balance. Enjoy the benefits of a 4-day working week, giving you more time for what matters most. We also provide an excellent pension scheme, life assurance, and access to a confidential Employee Assistance Programme. Our team regularly takes part in social and wellbeing events, helping you stay connected, supported, and engaged both in and outside of work.

Contract Information: Monday - Thursday (36hrs) £16.83 p/h increasing to £17.42 in January 2026 plus Nightshift Allowance

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