Senior Welder

ABOUT IITA

The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is a not-for-profit research-for-development organisation and a member of CGIAR. It develops agricultural innovations that address hunger, poverty and natural-resource degradation across Africa.

JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Welder will fabricate, repair and maintain farm machinery, research infrastructure and metal structures at IITA’s headquarters. The role requires safe, precise use of several welding techniques and may include supervising or training junior welders and casual workers.

• Location: Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
• Employment Type: Two-year renewable contract
• Work Arrangement: On-site
• Eligibility: Suitable Nigerian nationals
• Deadline: 2 October 2026
• Remuneration: Highly competitive salary and benefits; amount not specified

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Weld and repair farm machinery and implements, including tractors, irrigation equipment and heavy-duty tools.
• Fabricate metal structures for research facilities, including screenhouses, greenhouses, irrigation frames and trial-plot fencing.
• Measure, cut and prepare metal materials according to approved specifications.
• Apply MIG, TIG, stick, arc and gas-welding techniques to produce strong, precise and safe welds.
• Conduct preventive maintenance on welded structures to improve durability and reduce replacement costs.
• Maintain safe working conditions and comply with health, safety and environmental standards.
• Keep daily records of welding and fabrication activities, materials used and labour hours.
• Report recurring fabrication and repair needs to support equipment-investment planning.
• Train and guide junior welders or casual workers on proper techniques and safety practices.
• Perform other related duties assigned by the Head of Farm Management.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• NABTEB Technical Certificate in Welding and Fabrication is an advantage.
• Two to four years of proven welding and fabrication experience in a structured workshop or farm setting.
• Practical skill in MIG, TIG, stick and gas welding.
• Strong knowledge of metals, alloys and welding consumables.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and fabrication plans.
• Knowledge and strict application of workplace-safety standards and personal protective equipment.
• Experience in agricultural research institutions or farm-mechanisation projects is advantageous.
• Experience fabricating irrigation systems or research screenhouses is desirable.
• Occupational-health and safety training or certification, such as NEBOSH, OSHA or a Nigerian equivalent, is advantageous.
• Familiarity with CNC cutting, advanced metalworking tools, ERP or work-order tracking systems is advantageous.
• Supervisory ability, precision, attention to detail and ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Good oral and written English for reporting and communication.

IITA is an equal-opportunity employer and particularly welcomes applications from women.

HOW TO APPLY

Apply through IITA’s official Workable page. Complete the online application and attach a detailed cover letter and CV saved in Microsoft Word format using your name as the filename.

Application Deadline: 2 October 2026.