Gas cutter/CNC Operator

Core Responsibilities

CNC Tab Cutting: Operate CNC oxy-fuel to fabricate standardized run-on and run-off tabs from scrap or plate materials.

Tab Removal: After final SAW welding, use manual gas cutting (Oxy-Acetylene/Propane) to remove the tabs without damaging the pipe body

Precision Gas Cutting: Perform manual cutting for Window Cutting for metallurgical samples.

Surface Preparation: Grind and clean the area after tab removal to ensure a smooth surface

Slag & Burr Management: Ensure all cuts are free of excessive slag (dross) and heat-affected zone (HAZ) irregularities

Technical Skill Set

Equipment Mastery: Proficiency in manual oxy-fuel torches, semi-automatic pug cutters, and CNC plasma/flame cutting tables

Gas Management: Expert knowledge of gas pressure settings, nozzle selection, and flame adjustment for various wall thicknesses.

Blueprint Literacy: Ability to read Cutting Plans and Tab Detail drawings to ensure correct dimensions for different pipe diameters.

Material Awareness: Understanding the pre-heating requirements for high-strength steels (X70, X80) to prevent thermal cracking during the cutting process. 

Key Qualifications

Education: ITI (Welder/Gas Cutter) or equivalent vocational trade certificate.

Experience: 3–7 years of experience in heavy fabrication, preferably in an LSAW or structural steel mill.

Industry Background: Candidates from similar industries are preferred for their experience with Zero-Defect export quality. 

Preferred Attributes

• Mastery of gas cylinder safety, flashback arrestors, and hot-work permit systems.
• Skill in flush-grinding the area where the tab was removed to match the original pipe profile perfectly. 

Employer-Specific Context

• Strict adherence to SAMSS requirements regarding Thermal Cutting and the mandatory removal of heat-tint/slag before inspection.
• Experience with automated CNC software to minimize plate waste when cutting tabs.
• High-speed performance to keep up with the cycle time of the JCO forming press and SAW stations.