Fabrication Engineering Manager

We are seeking a technically strong and leadership-oriented Fabrication Engineering Manager to lead and develop our fabrication engineering team. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of fabrication process engineering, tooling development, process documentation, and production support to ensure optimal manufacturing performance. The ideal candidate brings a solid background in structural and sheet metal fabrication, a deep understanding of engineering principles, and proven experience managing cross-functional teams.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Fabrication Process Development & Optimization

• • Lead the design and optimization of fabrication processes including cutting, forming, welding, and assembly.

  • Improve productivity, quality, and cost-efficiency through Lean and Six Sigma initiatives.

2. Tooling & Fixture Design

• • Oversee development of jigs, fixtures, and workholding tools to ensure consistency and accuracy in fabrication.

  • Collaborate with product engineering on manufacturability and design for fabrication (DFF).

3. Process Documentation & Standards

• • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and process control plans.

  • Support the creation and maintenance of BOMs, routings, and time studies.

4. Equipment & Technology Integration

• • Identify and implement new fabrication technologies, equipment upgrades, and automation solutions.

  • Support commissioning and troubleshooting of CNC lasers, press brakes, welding robots, and other fabrication systems.

5. Quality & Compliance

• • Ensure fabrication methods comply with internal quality requirements and industry standards (e.g., AWS, ASME).

  • Conduct root cause analysis for quality issues and lead corrective/preventive actions.

6. Team Leadership & Development

• • Lead and mentor a team of fabrication engineers, CAD/CAM specialists, and technicians.

  • Foster collaboration with production, design, maintenance, and supply chain teams.

Core Responsibilities:

• • Direct day-to-day engineering support for fabrication operations.

  • Develop process improvement roadmaps and lead implementation of key initiatives.

  • Support design reviews and influence product design for manufacturability.

  • Manage projects for equipment installation, process changes, and production scaling.

  • Coordinate with maintenance and operations for equipment reliability and uptime.

  • Monitor KPIs including scrap rate, downtime, yield, and process capability.

  • Drive a culture of safety, quality, and innovation within the engineering function.

Required Qualifications:

• • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.

  • 8–12+ years of experience in fabrication or manufacturing engineering, including 3–5 years in a leadership role.

  • Proficient in sheet metal and structural fabrication processes (laser/plasma cutting, press brake forming, welding).

  • Familiarity with CAD/CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Lantek, or equivalent).

  • Strong understanding of GD&T, welding standards, and material specifications.

Preferred Qualifications:

• • Master’s degree or professional certifications (e.g., Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, PMP).

  • Experience in industries such as aerospace, transportation, heavy equipment, or industrial machinery.

  • Knowledge of ERP/MES systems and manufacturing data analysis.

  • Working knowledge of automation and Industry 4.0 technologies in fabrication.