The Senior Fabrication Supervisor – Valve Bodies and Components is a leadership role responsible for managing all aspects of valve component fabrication, including welding, machining, forming, and assembly operations. This position oversees multiple teams and shift operations, ensuring adherence to production targets, quality specifications, and compliance standards such as ASME, ANSI, and AWWA. The role plays a key part in driving lean manufacturing initiatives, workforce development, and cross-functional collaboration with engineering, maintenance, and quality departments.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Production Oversight
Lead and manage daily operations across multiple fabrication teams and shifts.
Ensure production schedules are met while maintaining product quality and safety compliance.
Monitor KPIs such as output, scrap, rework, and labor efficiency to drive performance improvements.
Technical Quality & Standards Compliance
Interpret complex fabrication drawings and technical specifications for valve components and assemblies.
Ensure fabrication operations conform to industry codes (ASME B16.34, B31.3, AWWA, API) and internal quality systems.
Oversee inspections and testing processes in coordination with QA/QC teams.
Workforce Management & Development
Supervise and mentor team leads, welders, machinists, and fabricators.
Conduct performance evaluations, lead training initiatives, and support cross-training and skill advancement.
Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Lean Manufacturing & Process Optimization
Champion lean principles including 5S, visual management, and standard work procedures.
Identify and implement process improvements to reduce cycle time, improve safety, and increase throughput.
Collaborate with engineering on design-for-manufacturability (DFM) reviews and new product introductions.
Safety, Compliance & Equipment Readiness
Ensure a safe work environment and full compliance with OSHA and environmental standards.
Oversee proper use and maintenance of fabrication machinery and tools.
Manage audits, risk assessments, and documentation related to safety and operational performance.
Key Focus Areas:
Strategic leadership of valve fabrication operations across shifts
Compliance with ASME, ANSI, AWWA, and customer specifications
Workforce development, training, and performance management
Implementation of lean manufacturing and process improvement initiatives
Safety leadership and equipment reliability
Collaboration with engineering, planning, QA, and maintenance teams
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, or related technical field
Advanced certifications (AWS CWI, Lean Six Sigma, NIMS) strongly preferred
Experience:
8–12+ years of fabrication experience in valve or heavy industrial manufacturing
4+ years in a supervisory or management capacity with multi-team oversight
Technical Skills:
Deep understanding of welding processes, CNC machining, and fabrication tooling
Strong command of GD&T, weld symbols, blueprints, and technical specifications
Familiarity with ERP systems, production reporting, and quality management systems (QMS)
Soft Skills:
Proven leadership and conflict-resolution skills
Strategic thinking with a hands-on management style
Excellent communication, planning, and organizational abilities
Ability to drive change, motivate teams, and manage production under tight deadlines