Weld/Fabrication Shop Manager
Complex Fabricators is an AS9100-certified manufacturer producing precision fabricated, welded, machined, and assembled products for aerospace, defense, medical, scientific, and industrial customers. As we continue to grow, we are seeking an experienced Fabrication Shop Manager to build one of the region's premier fabrication operations.
To be successful in this position you must be able to interact and engage with your counterpart leading the machining team, building rapport in a positive way. You will spend much of your time providing what your fabrication team needs to be successful each day. Additionally, you will focus on problem-solving and continuous improvement by methodically observing operational performance with the goal of improving execution, increasing output, and streamlining processes. You will also discover and utilize new technologies as appropriate with a focus on Lean Manufacturing.
You will share your knowledge to promote employee growth, pride in the workplace, and drive high-level performance through coaching and training. You will lead and manage the operation of all fabrication areas to ensure safety and quality standards are understood and met as well as ensure that all productivity and cost targets are achieved. You will work closely with the VP of Operations to establish work schedules, plan production, review productivity standards, and recommend solutions for improvements. As the Fabrication Manager you will Champion a proactive safety culture in which hazards are identified, corrected, and prevented before injuries occur.
Due to ITAR-controlled work, applicants must be U.S. Persons or otherwise legally authorized to work on controlled programs.
Weld/Fabrication Shop Manager Skills and Qualifications:
- General leadership experience in the manufacturing or welding/fabrication industries
- Experience and strong knowledge of GMAW, SMAW, FCAW applications
- Practiced in the inspection of welds to recognized National Codes and Standards
- Proficiency in reading and following customer blueprints
- Knowledge of welding practices, including the influence of welding parameters, application, and proper storage of filler metals
- Possess great communication skills [both verbal and written] with which to clearly delegate to coworkers, interact with company managers, and interface with customers
- Familiarity with the organization of equipment on a shop floor to maximize productivity
- Experience in large or complex welding/fabrication projects
- Experience using ERP/MRP systems to manage production priorities and departmental performance
- Possess excellent time management and organization skills
- Knowledge of OSHA safety workplace requirements
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing tools, methods, and practices, including 5S, Standard Work, Kaizen, Visual Management, Value Stream Mapping, and Root Cause Analysis
- Self-motivated and able to operate independently
- Able to lift 10 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds on occasion
- Must have the hand and finger dexterity to work a keyboard
- Must have good eyesight, including depth perception and peripheral vision
Weld/Fabrication Shop Manager Responsibilities:
- Use knowledge of Lean Manufacturing tools, methods, and practices as part of your daily management practices and interactions
- Own department performance through key metrics including on-time delivery, labor efficiency, weld quality, rework, scrap, throughput, and first-pass yield
- Understand and support team with specifications/applying specifications and drawings/reading drawings along with knowledge of welding terminology and welding symbols
- Regularly review and update written welding instructions, writing new welding instructions and defining welding requirements as needed
- Ensure fabricated products consistently meet customer drawings, AWS requirements, AS9100 procedures, and internal quality standards amp; prepare concise reports of performance documentation, reviews, and inspection results
- Develop future leaders by mentoring lead welders, fitters, and supervisors
- Improve fabrication throughput through better workflow, fixture design, fit-up methods, weld sequencing, workstation organization, and elimination of waste
- Understand and perform in accordance with our AS9100 quality management system
- Lead continuous improvement projects that improve safety, quality, throughput, cost, and employee engagement
What Success Looks Like:
Within your first year you will:
- Build a highly engaged fabrication team.
- Improve throughput while maintaining exceptional quality.
- Increase on-time delivery through better scheduling and workflow.
- Reduce scrap and rework through standardized fabrication processes.
- Strengthen Lean Manufacturing throughout the department.
- Recommend equipment, tooling, and automation investments that improve productivity.
- Build strong partnerships with the Machine Shop Manager and Operations leadership.
Wage $85,000-$95,000 depending on experience. Relocation may be available for a well-qualified candidate. As a condition of employment, you will be required to pass a drug screen and background check.