Tacker - FabLogix
Job description
About the role
The Tacker role at Kelso Industries in Duncan, South Carolina represents a critical hands-on position within a large network of over 40 companies that employ more than 4,000 associates nationwide. In this capacity, you will be responsible for ensuring the precision and readiness of pipe fabrication components before they move to the next stage of production. This position is fundamentally about ownership, where your decisions directly influence the quality, safety, and scheduling of fabricated assemblies. You will work full time on the first shift, and successful employment is contingent upon passing mandatory drug screening and background checks. By maintaining a strict focus on fit-up accuracy, you enable the rest of the team to work efficiently and without interruption.
Key facts
What you'll do
- Execute the setup and alignment of pipe components, performing precise tacking operations to establish a stable foundation for welding.
- Operate hand tools and basic fabrication equipment with a high degree of care to maintain safety and quality standards.
- Conduct detailed inspections of fit-up dimensions, identifying and reporting any deviations that could impede the welding process.
- Collaborate closely with team members to uphold rigorous quality standards and ensure the production schedule remains on track.
- Act as a proactive contributor to continuous improvement initiatives designed to enhance shop throughput and operational reliability.
- Prepare work areas and materials systematically, organizing the production environment to support efficient and uninterrupted fabrication steps.
- Communicate clearly and promptly with leads and team members regarding any issues or concerns that may affect timelines, safety, or quality.
- Adhere strictly to all established procedures and protocols to protect people, product, and the environment during every shift.
- Support the overall flow of fabrication activities by anticipating needs and removing potential obstacles before they cause delays.
- Maintain a consistent focus on accuracy and stability in every tack operation to minimize the need for rework and scrap.
- Assist in the preparation and positioning of materials to facilitate a smooth and logical progression of work for welding teams.
- Monitor the condition of tools and equipment, ensuring they remain in safe and functional condition for daily operations.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must successfully pass a drug test and background check as required conditions of employment. You are expected to provide documentation confirming at least two years of prior fabrication or metalwork experience. Demonstrated reliability is essential, including the ability to consistently follow instructions, complete assigned tasks, and maintain safe work habits at all times. You must be physically capable of handling materials, standing for full shifts, and using fabrication tools safely and effectively throughout the workday. The role demands attention to detail and the physical stamina required to meet the demands of a manufacturing environment. Compliance with all safety and procedural requirements is mandatory for all personnel in this position.
Nice to have
Having three months of prior experience in pipe fabrication or structural metal work is preferred for this role.
Practical notes
Work is scheduled for the first shift in Duncan, South Carolina. Employment type is full time.
About the company
Kelso Industries builds scientific research vessels for government marine operations. The company name honors the late Dr John Kelso, a scientist with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. This background is reflected in the design of vessels built to support fisheries research and water quality work. The lead vessel is a "Near Shore Fisheries Research Vessel" used for trawls, box core sampling, bottom sampling, and water quality sampling. It was commissioned in 2009 and built by ABCO Industries Lunenburg Shipyard. The vessel was ordered by the Canadian Coast Guard to replace the retiring CCGS Shark and operates from CGS Base Burlington in the Central and Arctic Region. The ship has a maximum speed near 16 knots and a cruising speed near 14 knots. Fuel capacity is about 2,848 litres, with additional water storage of 500 litres. Accommodation includes seating for ten passengers and a crew of three. This configuration supports day trips and focused research campaigns in coastal and nearshore waters.