DUTIES

Weld and repair farm machinery and implements, including tractors, irrigation equipment, and heavy-duty tools.
Fabricate metal structures for research facilities (screen houses, greenhouses, irrigation frames, trial plot fencing, etc.).
Measure, cut, and prepare metal materials according to design specifications.
Employ appropriate welding techniques (MIG, TIG, stick welding, arc welding, gas welding, etc.) to deliver strong, precise, and safe welds.
Carry out preventative maintenance on welded structures to ensure long-term durability and reduce costs of replacement.
Maintain safe working conditions and ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards.
Keep accurate daily records of welding and fabrication activities, including materials used and labour hours (to feed into cost-recovery tracking).
Provide input to equipment investment plans by reporting on recurring fabrication/repair needs.
Train and guide junior welders or casual staff on proper welding techniques and safety practices.
Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Head of Farm Management.

Requirements

QUALIFICATION

National Diploma (ND) in Mechanical Engineering or related field; NABTEB Technical Certificate in Welding and Fabrication is an advantage.
Minimum of 2 - 4 years of proven welding and fabrication experience in a structured workshop or farm setting is required.

COMPETENCIES

The ideal candidate must have:

Training or certification in occupational health & safety (e.g., NEBOSH, OSHA, or Nigerian equivalent
Experience in Agricultural Research Institutions or farm mechanization projects.
Skill in MIG, TIG, stick, and gas welding
Familiarity with ERP/work order tracking systems
Experience with CNC cutting or advanced metalworking tools
Strong knowledge of metals, alloys, and welding consumables.
Experience fabricating irrigation systems or research screen houses
Knowledge and strict adherence to workplace safety standards, PPE usage, and safe handling of welding/fabrication equipment.
Supervisory skills in managing junior welders
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and fabrication plans
Ability to work under minimal supervision, with precision and attention to detail
Proficiency in English (oral and written) for reporting and communication

Senior Welder At Iita - International Institute Of Tropical Agriculture

Key skills