The Manager – Fabrication Prototype Shop is responsible for planning, directing, and managing all activities within the prototype fabrication shop, supporting new product development and early-stage manufacturing programs. This role oversees prototype builds of structural and mechanical components, ensures high-precision fabrication, and enables rapid iteration cycles for engineering validation. The ideal candidate combines hands-on fabrication knowledge with strong leadership, planning, and communication skills.
Lead day-to-day operations of the prototype fabrication shop, ensuring safety, quality, and timely execution of prototype builds.
Manage and prioritize fabrication requests from engineering, design, and R&D teams for parts and subassemblies.
Coordinate the fabrication of sheet metal, machined, welded, and assembled components using a wide range of manual and CNC equipment.
Supervise a multidisciplinary team of welders, fabricators, machinists, and technicians.
Interface closely with design engineering to assess manufacturability, suggest design changes, and support rapid prototyping.
Establish and manage build schedules, materials planning, and resource allocation for multiple prototype programs.
Maintain strict quality standards, dimensional accuracy, and documentation for fabricated parts.
Oversee development and integration of custom fixtures, jigs, and tooling for prototype fabrication.
Ensure proper maintenance, calibration, and safe operation of all fabrication equipment.
Support root cause analysis and continuous improvement efforts related to prototype production.
Prototype Build Management:
Deliver high-quality, functional prototype parts and assemblies on schedule for testing, evaluation, or customer demo.
Adapt quickly to evolving designs and manage short turnaround times with flexibility and precision.
Fabrication Process Expertise:
Guide processes such as laser cutting, press brake forming, manual/CNC machining, TIG/MIG welding, and hand-finishing.
Ensure parts meet tight tolerances and design specifications, even in low-volume or one-off production runs.
Cross-functional Collaboration:
Act as a key liaison between engineering, testing, materials, and production teams to support the full product development lifecycle.
Provide feedback on DFM/DFA during early-stage product reviews.
Shop Management & Team Development:
Manage workforce planning, skill development, performance evaluations, and training for prototype shop personnel.
Promote a strong safety culture and 5S/lean manufacturing principles in the shop environment.
Materials & Equipment Oversight:
Source and track prototype materials (sheet metal, aluminum, tubing, etc.) and ensure inventory accuracy.
Ensure optimal use of advanced fabrication tools and recommend upgrades or process innovations as needed.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent practical experience); technical certifications are a plus.
10+ years of hands-on experience in metal fabrication, prototype build environments, or custom manufacturing.
Strong understanding of fabrication techniques, materials, GD&T, and prototype part validation.
Experience managing a team in a prototype or low-volume manufacturing setting.
Proficiency in interpreting engineering drawings, CAD models (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX), and using shop management software.
Excellent communication, planning, and organizational skills.
Working knowledge of lean practices, safety standards, and quality inspection methods.