Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Additional Information
Assessments
Personal Information
Timeline

Karen Smith

Blacksburg,SC

Summary

Dependable, highly motivated, and hardworking professional with a diverse range of knowledge in various job settings. Eager to learn and continuously improve, I possess the skills, work ethic, and intelligence that make me an exceptional hire and a model employee. Committed to doing hard work the right way, I believe in investing company time and resources to train and teach. Bring valuable qualities that are often lacking in today's workforce, making me a valuable asset to any organization.


Overview

20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Development Director

Southern Whiskers Cat Rescue
09.2023 - Current

Reason for Leaving: No longer need to devote my full focus to this project and am eager to return to the public workforce.

Assignments:

  • Maintained organization's social media accounts and websites, adding new, exciting content on consistent basis.
  • Maintained organizations social media accounts and websites, adding new, exciting content on consistent basis.
  • Researched possible grants and then created proposals to submit along with grant applications.
  • Built relationships with customers and community to establish long-term business growth.
  • Researched possible grants and created proposals to submit along with grant applications.

MIG Welder

Cheetah Chassis Corporation
07.2022 - 09.2023

Reason for leaving: Left to pursue my family's deep passion for animal welfare to help my spouse start a nonprofit cat rescue for our community.


Assignments: Welded large tractor trailer frames and other various sized tractor trailer frames.

  • Consistently met or surpassed performance goals by effectively prioritizing tasks, managing time efficiently, and demonstrating strong work ethic in all aspects of the MIG Welder position.
  • Chipped away debris and thick crusts of rust, slag, and other materials to ready surfaces for welding.
  • Bolted, clamped and tack-welded parts to secure components prior to welding.
  • Prepared for assembly by positioning, aligning and securing parts using tools such as jigs and vises.
  • Avoided warping, shrinkage, and distortion by carefully controlling welding processes.
  • Inspected welds for accuracy and conformance to specifications.
  • Cut, grinded and bent edges of materials to be joined for snug fit using power grinders and hand tools.
  • Streamlined repair processes by identifying defective welds and executing corrective measures quickly and efficiently.
  • Supported engineering teams by providing accurate measurements and following blueprints to ensure precise alignment of welded components.
  • Assessed welds for specifications with work orders.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry best practices and advancements in MIG welding technology, ensuring continued proficiency and skill development within the role.
  • Contributed to cost savings through efficient use of materials and minimizing waste during the welding process.
  • Maintained a clean work environment, promoting optimal functioning of equipment and reducing potential hazards.
  • Prepared surfaces for welds through scraping, scoring, and other techniques.
  • Achieved high-quality finishes with expert grinding and polishing skills, enhancing the appearance of final products.
  • Enhanced weld quality by utilizing MIG welding techniques for various metal types and thicknesses.
  • Measured parts to check compliance with design documents.
  • Increased production efficiency by maintaining welding equipment and ensuring proper calibration.
  • Ensured workplace safety by following established guidelines and wearing appropriate protective gear.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in operating various cutting tools such as plasma cutters or oxy-acetylene torches, contributing to the accurate preparation of materials for welding.
  • Improved overall product durability by conducting thorough inspections of welded components and making necessary adjustments.

Landscaper/Maintenance Crew Member

Sumter County SC Housing Authority
03.2022 - 08.2022

Reason for Leaving: Offered a position that had opportunities I was looking for.


Assignments: Managed grounds upkeep and completed all "home" repairs, replacements and any cosmetic repairs for 4 separate government housing apartment complexes

  • Maintained grounds by trimming, weeding, and general clean-up.
  • Performed planting, watering, mulching, and edging of lawns.
  • Trimmed greenery, shrubs, and hedges to maintain uniform appearance.
  • Managed inventory of tools, equipment, and materials to ensure proper allocation of resources for each project.
  • Resolved client concerns promptly by addressing issues professionally and offering viable solutions.
  • Trained new team members on best practices in landscaping techniques ensuring consistent quality across all projects.
  • Utilized power tools and landscaping machines to maintain outdoor areas.
  • Removed debris and waste from outdoor areas.
  • Cut trees and shrubs to shape and maintain landscape.
  • Removed tree stumps, roots and debris for cohesive landscape appearance.
  • Maintained gardening tools by replacing blades and fluids.
  • Followed routine maintenance checklist.
  • Loaded, unloaded, and moved material to and from storage and production areas.
  • Removed outdoor debris and yard clippings into receptacles to properly maintain grounds.
  • Followed safety precautions to avoid personal injury and provide safe work environment.
  • Enhanced safety in the workplace by addressing potential hazards and maintaining a clean work environment.
  • Used problem-solving skills to alleviate issues efficiently with minimal supervision.
  • Increased team productivity through effective communication and collaboration on maintenance tasks.
  • Improved equipment efficiency by conducting regular preventive maintenance and repairs.
  • Solved complex mechanical problems using critical thinking skills and extensive knowledge of tools, materials, and techniques.
  • Maintained optimal equipment performance with regular inspections, adjustments, and replacements as needed.
  • Followed work orders and specifications for machine and equipment replacement, repair, or maintenance.
  • Completed daily, weekly, and monthly checklists on building equipment to maintain records of scheduled maintenance procedures.
  • Installed new locks, door handles, and door closers.
  • Properly handled, transported, and disposed of recycled materials.
  • Rewired and replaced faulty electrical components in equipment.
  • Completed preventive maintenance on machines to enhance production and maintain quality.

Welder/Flux- MIG Welder

Honda Manufacturing of South Carolina
09.2021 - 07.2022

Reason for Leaving: Was not a suitable fit for my long term career aspirations or goals.

Assignments: Welded Honda brand ATV and Side by Side Frames.

  • Measured parts to check compliance with design documents.
  • Ensured workplace safety by following established guidelines and wearing appropriate protective gear.
  • Increased production efficiency by maintaining welding equipment and ensuring proper calibration.
  • Enhanced weld quality by utilizing MIG welding techniques for various metal types and thicknesses.
  • Prepared surfaces for welds through scraping, scoring, and other techniques.
  • Maintained a clean work environment, promoting optimal functioning of equipment and reducing potential hazards.
  • Assessed welds for specifications with work orders.
  • Inspected welds for accuracy and conformance to specifications.
  • Prepared for assembly by positioning, aligning and securing parts using tools such as jigs and vises.
  • Bolted, clamped and tack-welded parts to secure components prior to welding.
  • Chipped away debris and thick crusts of rust, slag, and other materials to ready surfaces for welding.
  • Detected faulty operation of equipment and defective materials and promptly resolved issues.
  • Cleaned material surfaces to remove dirt or excess acid using chemical solutions, wire brushes and grinders.
  • Adapted to changing project requirements, demonstrating flexibility in adjusting techniques or materials as needed for successful outcomes.

Order Picker/Inspector in Quality Assurance and Quality Control

Tupperware USA
05.2020 - 09.2021

Reason for Leaving: Company began downsizing to began shutting this location completely, position was no longer available.

Assignments: Picked items for customer's specific orders and inspected outgoing order for control purposes.

  • Worked fast to meet assigned daily picking quotas.
  • Pulled orders quickly to maintain demanding productivity goals.
  • Scanned and verified UPC codes for all products to aid in identification.
  • Enhanced order accuracy by diligently following pick sheets and double-checking items before packing.
  • Assisted in reducing product damage through careful handling of items during the picking process.
  • Verified proper labeling and identification on all orders before shipment.
  • Demonstrated flexibility in adapting to various shifts and schedules while maintaining consistent performance standards throughout periods of increased workload demands or personnel shortages.
  • Displayed excellent attention to detail, ensuring all orders were picked and prepared accurately according to customer specifications.
  • Assisted with training and onboarding of new team members, sharing best practices and helping them acclimate to the fast-paced work environment.
  • Picked and packed order items.
  • Followed orders precisely for correct items, sizes and quantities.
  • Kept work areas neat, clean and free from debris.
  • Reviewed order slips, picked products and staged merchandize to be shipped.
  • Managed timely and effective replacement of damaged or missing products.
  • Used appropriately sized boxes to pack products with care, minimizing shifting and damage during transport.
  • Used machinery and equipment such as box cutters, shrink-wrap guns and electric pallet jacks.
  • Assembled pallets and crates for secure transportation of materials.
  • Supported production line with timely material supply, keeping operations running without interruptions.
  • Used RF scanners to track orders and verify accuracy.

Landscape Groundskeeper

CGGCI
05.2019 - 04.2020

Reason for Leaving: Position was temporary and had an end date.

Assignments: Preformed general duties designed for lawn upkeep for SC women's correctional facility.

  • Operated various landscaping equipment safely and efficiently, including mowers, trimmers, edgers, blowers, and chainsaws.
  • Enhanced landscape aesthetics by regularly mowing lawns, trimming bushes, and planting flowers.
  • Contributed to a clean environment by disposing of waste materials responsibly through recycling or composting methods when applicable.
  • Completed seasonal tasks such as mulching flower beds or leaf removal ensuring landscapes looked well-kept yearround.
  • Used trimmers and chainsaws for grounds maintenance, brush clearing, and tree removal and thinning.
  • Developed and maintained efficient irrigation system for outdoor areas.
  • Cut trees and shrubs to shape and maintain landscape.
  • Applied fertilizers and pesticides to outdoor areas according to safety standards.
  • Removed tree stumps, roots and debris for cohesive landscape appearance.
  • Removed debris and waste from outdoor areas.
  • Maintained gardening tools by replacing blades and fluids.
  • Inspected gardens for pests, weeds and diseases.
  • Assisted with irrigation system maintenance and repair.
  • Utilized power tools and landscaping machines to maintain outdoor areas.
  • Trimmed greenery, shrubs, and hedges to maintain uniform appearance.

Production MIG Welder

Interlake Material Inc
10.2013 - 05.2017

Reason for Leaving: Company shutdown due to being bought.

Assignments: Completed an 8 week Mig Welding classroom course thru company with AWS requirements, and welded together structural beams for various projects.

  • Ensured workplace safety by following strict guidelines for proper equipment usage and protective gear.
  • Consistently met or exceeded daily production quotas while maintaining a strong focus on quality output at all times.
  • Maintained a clean work environment to prevent accidents, ensuring compliance with OSHA regulations.
  • Demonstrated versatility in handling various types of metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel with precision welding skills.
  • Streamlined workflow by efficiently organizing tools and materials before starting each task, reducing downtime between jobs.
  • Adapted quickly to changes in project requirements or deadlines without compromising workmanship or efficiency levels.
  • Prepared surfaces for welds through scraping, scoring, and other techniques.
  • Measured parts to check compliance with design documents.
  • Assessed welds for specifications with work orders.
  • Cut, grinded and bent edges of materials to be joined for snug fit using power grinders and hand tools.
  • Welded metal components in vertical, overhead and flat positions.
  • Maintained safety by wearing protective equipment, staying alert and following procedures.
  • Welded various connections with high-quality final results.
  • Bolted, clamped and tack-welded parts to secure components prior to welding.
  • Inspected welds for accuracy and conformance to specifications.
  • Prepared for assembly by positioning, aligning and securing parts using tools such as jigs and vises.
  • Cleaned material surfaces to remove dirt or excess acid using chemical solutions, wire brushes and grinders.
  • Inspected pieces for defects, measured, and checked with straightedges or templates for compliance with specifications.
  • Completed projects safely by closely monitoring conditions when lighting torches and using tools.
  • Chipped away debris and thick crusts of rust, slag, and other materials to ready surfaces for welding.
  • Detected faulty operation of equipment and defective materials and promptly resolved issues.
  • Improved product quality by consistently maintaining tight weld seams and adhering to welding specifications.
  • Increased production efficiency by quickly adjusting to new blueprints and designs as needed.
  • Skillfully repaired defective welds, maintaining high-quality standards and reducing waste.

Server /Trainer

Outback Steakhouse
03.2004 - 09.2013

Reason for Leaving: Left to pursue different career path.

Assignments: General waiting tables and training duties


  • Demonstrated strong knowledge of food and beverage service standards and led by example to instill in new servers.
  • Maintained cleanliness standards throughout dining areas, contributing to a positive dining experience for guests.
  • Monitored new server performance and offered continuous support throughout training period.
  • Ensured accurate order taking and input into POS systems, reducing errors in food preparation and billing processes.
  • Instructed servers on proper techniques for taking orders, serving food and providing customer service.
  • Coached servers on proper food handling techniques to maintain compliance with health department regulations and uphold food safety standards.
  • Actively participated in team meetings to discuss strategies for increasing efficiency and improving customer experiences.
  • Developed strong relationships with regular customers, encouraging repeat business and loyalty to the establishment.
  • Addressed customer concerns promptly and professionally, resolving issues and preventing negative reviews or feedback.
  • Mentored new hires through the training process, ensuring they became productive team members quickly and efficiently.
  • Trained new team members on restaurant procedures, menu items, and performance strategies.

Education

High school diploma or GED - GED

Sara Babb High School, Columbia, SC
04.2020

Mig Welding Certificate - Mig Welding

AWS, Sumter, SC
08.2019

AWS Mig Welding Certificate - Mig Welding/Blueprint Reading

Interlake Material On Site Training And Classroom, Sumter, SC
10.2013

Skills

  • Welding Certification
  • Power Tools Operation
  • Quality Inspection
  • Welding Techniques
  • Tool repair and maintenance
  • Parts Assembly
  • Critical Thinking
  • Template Measurements
  • Attention to Detail
  • Welding
  • Quality control inspection
  • Welding Safety Procedures
  • Measurements and Calculations
  • Warehouse Safety
  • Order Preparation
  • Pallet Jack Operation
  • Quality Inspections
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Dependable and reliable
  • Decision-Making
  • Motivated Team Player
  • Organization and Categorization
  • Strategic Planning
  • Nonprofit Management
  • Grant Writing
  • Grant Proposals
  • Time Management
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Organizational Skills
  • Analytical problem solver
  • Strong Work Ethic
  • High Energy and Stamina

Certification

  • OSHA 10, Present
  • Welding Certification, 07/01/07
  • Driver's License, 04/01/20, DL# 011236823 SC Issued
  • ACT WorkKeys, 03/01/20, Scored Platinum
  • Non-CDL Class C
  • OSHA 30
  • AWS D1.1

Additional Information

Work Keys scored Platinum

Assessments

  • Work style: Reliability, 06/01/24, Proficient, Tendency to be reliable, dependable, and accountable at work
  • Work style: Reliability, 02/01/22, Proficient, Tendency to be reliable, dependable, and act with integrity at work
  • Delivery driver, 02/01/24, Proficient, Interpreting instructions or signs and solving problems
  • Warehouse safety, 06/01/24, Proficient, Using safe practices in a warehouse setting
  • Basic maintenance and repair, 06/01/24, Proficient, Performing basic repairs and maintenance for apartment complexes, office buildings, and other facilities
  • Cleaner fit, 06/01/24, Proficient, Measures the traits that are important for successful cleaners
  • Work motivation, 04/01/20, Proficient, Level of motivation and discipline applied toward work
  • Work style: Reliability, 08/01/22, Proficient, Tendency to be reliable, dependable, and act with integrity at work
  • Business math, 06/01/24, Proficient, Using basic math to solve problems in a business context
  • Manufacturing fit, 07/01/22, Proficient, Measures the traits that are important for success in manufacturing roles
  • Management & leadership skills: Impact & influence, 09/01/23, Proficient, Choosing the most effective strategy to inspire and influence others to meet business objectives
  • Learning agility, 08/01/23, Proficient, Learning and applying new information
  • Attention to detail, 06/01/24, Proficient, Identifying differences in materials, following instructions, and detecting details among distracting information
  • Mechanical knowledge, 06/01/24, Proficient, Understanding and applying mechanical concepts and processes

Personal Information

Work Permit: Authorized to work in the US for any employer

Timeline

Development Director - Southern Whiskers Cat Rescue
09.2023 - Current
MIG Welder - Cheetah Chassis Corporation
07.2022 - 09.2023
Landscaper/Maintenance Crew Member - Sumter County SC Housing Authority
03.2022 - 08.2022
Welder/Flux- MIG Welder - Honda Manufacturing of South Carolina
09.2021 - 07.2022
Order Picker/Inspector in Quality Assurance and Quality Control - Tupperware USA
05.2020 - 09.2021
Landscape Groundskeeper - CGGCI
05.2019 - 04.2020
Production MIG Welder - Interlake Material Inc
10.2013 - 05.2017
Server /Trainer - Outback Steakhouse
03.2004 - 09.2013
Sara Babb High School - High school diploma or GED, GED
AWS - Mig Welding Certificate, Mig Welding
Interlake Material On Site Training And Classroom - AWS Mig Welding Certificate, Mig Welding/Blueprint Reading
  • OSHA 10, Present
  • Welding Certification, 07/01/07
  • Driver's License, 04/01/20, DL# 011236823 SC Issued
  • ACT WorkKeys, 03/01/20, Scored Platinum
  • Non-CDL Class C
  • OSHA 30
  • AWS D1.1
Karen Smith