Job Summary
The Experienced Fabricator is responsible for interpreting fabrication drawings, measuring and preparing materials, fabricating structural and miscellaneous metal components, and ensuring finished products meet quality and safety standards. This role works closely with shop supervisors, welders, and project teams to produce high-quality fabricated assemblies while maintaining productivity and a safe work environment.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Read and interpret blueprints, fabrication drawings, work orders, and specifications.
- Measure, mark, cut, fit, and assemble steel, aluminum, stainless steel, and other materials to specification.
- Operate fabrication equipment including saws, ironworkers, drill presses, press brakes, shears, rollers, and other shop machinery.
- Prepare materials for welding, machining, painting, or final assembly.
- Perform layout work using measuring tools such as tape measures, squares, levels, calipers, and layout equipment.
- Verify dimensions and ensure components meet customer specifications and quality standards.
- Assist with shop production scheduling by completing assigned work accurately and efficiently.
- Inspect completed work and identify any required corrections prior to release.
- Maintain fabrication equipment and perform routine preventative maintenance.
- Keep work areas clean, organized, and compliant with company housekeeping standards.
- Follow all OSHA, company safety policies, and PPE requirements.
- Collaborate with supervisors and team members to improve shop efficiency and workflow.
- Assist with loading, unloading, and material handling using forklifts, cranes, or hoists as qualified.
Desired Qualifications
Education
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
Required Qualifications
- 5+ years of fabrication experience in a structural steel, miscellaneous metals, or custom fabrication shop.
- Ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings and shop blueprints.
- Proficiency using common fabrication equipment and hand tools.
- Strong understanding of fabrication techniques, measurements, tolerances, and material properties.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
- Basic mathematical skills including fractions, decimals, and geometry.
- Ability to safely lift up to 50 pounds regularly and heavier materials with lifting equipment.
- Ability to stand, bend, kneel, climb, and work in a manufacturing environment for extended periods.
Preferred Qualifications
- Welding experience (MIG, FCAW, TIG, or Stick).
- AWS welding certifications.
- Forklift and overhead crane experience.
- Experience with CNC fabrication equipment.
- Experience in custom metal fabrication or structural steel fabrication.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Blueprint reading and interpretation.
- Material layout and optimization.
- Precision measuring and quality inspection.
- Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Strong communication and teamwork.
- Time management and ability to meet production deadlines.
- Commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement.
Performance Expectations
Success in this role is measured by:
- Quality and accuracy of fabricated components.
- Productivity and timely completion of assigned work.
- Safe work practices.
- Attendance and reliability.
- Teamwork and communication.
- Equipment care and housekeeping.
- Continuous improvement and willingness to support shop operations.
Physical Requirements
- Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in varying temperatures typical of a fabrication shop.
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and climbing.
- Ability to wear required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, hard hats, and steel-toed boots.
Work Environment
This position is primarily performed in a fabrication shop environment with exposure to moving machinery, welding operations, noise, dust, and varying temperatures. Employees are expected to follow all company safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment.