SAW (Submerged Arc Welding) Operator – Skilled Trades

About the role

We are seeking an experienced SAW (Submerged Arc Welding) Operator to join our manufacturing team in eThekwini Central. You will be responsible for delivering high‑quality welds on steel components while adhering to engineering drawings, welding procedures, and safety standards.

Key responsibilities

• Set up, operate and monitor Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) machines.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints and welding symbols.
• Prepare workpieces by cleaning, aligning and securing them before welding.
• Perform SAW welding on structural steel, pressure vessels, beams, pipes and fabricated components.
• Control welding parameters such as voltage, amperage, travel speed and wire feed.
• Conduct visual inspections of welds and carry out grinding, gouging and finishing as required.
• Replace consumables (wire, flux, contact tips) and perform routine equipment maintenance.
• Report equipment faults, quality issues and safety hazards promptly.

Required profile

• Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent.
• Valid welding qualification or certification.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience operating SAW equipment in a manufacturing or fabrication environment.
• Experience welding carbon steel and heavy steel structures.
• Ability to read engineering drawings and welding symbols.

Required skills

• Submerged Arc Welding (SAW) operation.
• Welding of carbon steel and heavy steel structures.
• Interpretation of engineering drawings and welding symbols.
• Use of measuring tools such as tape measures, verniers and gauges.
• Grinding, gouging and finishing of welded components.
• Routine maintenance of welding equipment.