What are the responsibilities and job description for the Vessel Fitter (Fab Shop Maintenance) position at Brown & Root?
The Vessel Fitter is responsible for laying out, positioning, and fitting structural steel and pressure vessel components in accordance with engineering drawings and specifications. This role plays a key part in the fabrication of tanks, pressure vessels, and other heavy industrial equipment.
Key Responsibilities:
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Read and interpret engineering drawings, fabrication blueprints, and vessel schematics.
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Lay out and mark reference points for plates, shells, heads, nozzles, manways, and other attachments.
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Fit and align large vessel components using chain falls, come-alongs, wedges, jacks, and measuring tools.
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Prepare surfaces for welding, including grinding, beveling, and cleaning metal components.
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Ensure all dimensions and tolerances comply with ASME, API, or client specifications.
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Work closely with welders to ensure proper fit-up prior to tack or final welding.
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Perform visual inspections to confirm alignment, squareness, and quality of fit.
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Operate hand and power tools safely (grinders, torches, magnetic drills, plasma cutters).
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Maintain a clean and safe work environment, following all company safety policies and procedures.
Qualifications:
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High school diploma or GED (preferred)
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Minimum 2–3 years of experience in heavy steel fabrication or vessel fitting
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Ability to read and interpret detailed fabrication drawings and welding symbols
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Familiarity with ASME Section VIII and pressure vessel standards
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Experience using industry-standard measuring and fitting tools
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Strong knowledge of rigging and layout techniques
Skills & Competencies:
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Attention to detail and precision in layout and alignment
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Strong understanding of metal types, tolerances, and material behavior
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Excellent communication and teamwork skills
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Physical ability to lift heavy materials and work in various positions (standing, crouching, climbing)
Work Environment:
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Heavy industrial fabrication shop or job site environment
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May involve exposure to loud noise, heat, fumes, and heavy equipment
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Required use of PPE: hard hat, steel-toe boots, gloves, safety glasses, etc.
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May require overtime, weekend shifts, or travel depending on project needs
Qualifications:
JOB REQUIREMENTS
- Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy.
- Make decisions based on measurable criteria.
- Apply shop mathematics to solve problems
- Plan work and select proper tools.
- Visualize objects in three dimensions from plans and drawings.
- Work at heights without fear.
- Compare and see differences in the size, shape and form of lines, figures and objects.
QUALIFICATIONS
May require a high school diploma or its equivalent with previous years of experience in the field or in a related area. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Strength:
a. Standing 60% Walking 20% Sitting 20%
b. Lifting 50 lb.
Carrying 50 lb.
Pushing 70 ft-lb.
Pulling 70 ft-lb.
2. Climbing F
Balancing F
3. Stooping O
Kneeling O
Crouching O
Crawling O
Reaching C
Handling C
Fingering F
EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS
NP Not Present
O Occasionally (0-33%)F Frequently (34-66%)C Constantly (67-100%)