A professional who lays out, positions, aligns, and fits together fabricated parts of structural metal products in shop, according to blueprint and layout specifications, preparatory to welding or riveting. Responsibilities include:

• Plans sequence of operation, applying knowledge of geometry, effects of heat, and allowances for weld shrinkage, machining, and thickness of metal.
• Sets up face block, jigs and fixtures.
• Locates and marks centerlines and reference points onto floor or face block and transposes them to workpiece, using tape, chains, plumb bob, and squares.
• Moves parts into position, manually or by hoist or crane.
• Aligns parts, using jack, turnbuckles, wedges, drift pins, pry bars, and hammer.
• Removes high spots and cuts bevels, using hand files, portable grinders, and cutting torch.
• Gives directions to arc welder to build up low spots or short pieces with weld.
• Straightens warped or bent parts, using sledge, hand torch, straightening press, or bulldozer.
• Positions or tightens braces, jacks, clamps, ropes, or bolt straps, or bolts parts in positions for welding or riveting.
• May use transit to locate reference points and erect ladders and scaffolding to fit together large assemblies.
• May tack weld and be designated fitter-tacker.