Position Summary The Fabrication Shop Manager is responsible for leading all fabrication shop operations, including production planning, workforce management, quality assurance, inventory control, equipment maintenance, safety compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role ensures that fabrication processes are executed efficiently, safely, and in accordance with production schedules, quality requirements, and financial objectives. The Fabrication Shop Manager provides leadership and direction to supervisors and production personnel while fostering a culture of accountability, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities The following duties are typical of those performed by employees in this job title; however, employees may perform other related duties, and not all duties listed are necessarily performed by each employee in the job title:
Lead and oversee daily fabrication shop operations, including welding, cutting, forming, assembly, and other value-added manufacturing processes
Ensure production schedules are achieved while maintaining quality, safety, and efficiency standards
Establish priorities and allocate resources to meet customer and operational requirements
Recruit, hire, train, develop, and retain supervisors and shop personnel
Hold supervisors and team members accountable for key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational objectives
Implement and support Lean Manufacturing, 5S, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives
Identify opportunities to improve productivity, reduce waste, improve quality, and lower operating costs
Ensure products meet customer specifications and company quality standards
Lead safety initiatives, training programs, and accident prevention efforts
Ensure the availability of raw materials, tooling, and production supplies to support operational requirements
Oversee inventory control activities and cycle count processes
Review inventory discrepancies and submit adjustment recommendations for approval
Establish and monitor preventive maintenance programs for fabrication equipment
Coordinate corrective maintenance activities to minimize downtime
Maintain an understanding of departmental cost structures and operational expenses
Support budgeting, forecasting, and profit and loss (P&L) management activities
Maintain accurate production records, work orders, and operational reports
Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Associate degree or technical certification in welding, manufacturing, or mechanical engineering is a plus
Experience/Skills/Abilities Required
Minimum 5 years of experience in a fabrication, metalworking, or manufacturing environment
Minimum 2–3 years of supervisory or leadership experience
Strong understanding of fabrication processes including welding, cutting, forming, fabrication layout, and assembly
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and shop drawings
Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
Proficient in shop math and basic computer skills (MS Office, ERP systems)
Knowledge of lean manufacturing and continuous improvement processes
Work Environment/Physical Demands
Typical office environment – moderate noise level. This position regularly requires standing; walking; sitting; use hands; reaching with hands and arms; and talking and/or hearing. Occasional lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds.
We are an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and has equal access to opportunities.