Mechanical Fabricator – Stainless Steel

The Senior Mechanical Fabricator – Stainless Steel is responsible for leading the fabrication, assembly, and installation of stainless steel components and systems for sanitary and industrial applications. This includes high-precision work in tank fabrication, piping assemblies, process skids, and structural frameworks, ensuring compliance with stringent standards such as ASME BPE, 3-A, and cGMP. The role involves hands-on fabrication, mentoring junior technicians, interpreting complex drawings, and ensuring best-in-class surface finishes and sanitary practices.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Expert Fabrication of Sanitary Stainless Steel Components and Systems

2. Leadership and Mentorship Within the Fabrication Team

3. Interpretation and Execution of Complex Engineering Drawings and Specs

4. Oversight of Clean Build Processes and Surface Finish Standards

5. Coordination with QA/QC and Project Engineering Teams

Key Responsibilities:

1. Advanced Fabrication and Assembly

• Lead the fabrication of complex piping spools, skid systems, pressure vessels, and support structures using stainless steel.

• Perform high-precision fit-ups and alignments to tight tolerances for welding and assembly.

• Ensure compliance with all applicable codes and sanitary requirements during the fabrication process.

2. Mentorship and Team Leadership

• Train and guide junior and mid-level fabricators in safe and sanitary fabrication practices.

• Act as the fabrication lead on assigned projects, coordinating activities with welders, engineers, and QA staff.

• Enforce fabrication shop protocols and ensure adherence to quality and safety standards.

3. Engineering and Technical Interpretation

• Interpret and validate detailed mechanical drawings, P&IDs, isometrics, and fabrication cut sheets.

• Identify potential design issues and propose improvements or modifications based on fabrication feasibility.

• Ensure accurate build according to bill of materials and customer specifications.

4. Sanitary Standards and Surface Finish

• Enforce 3-A and ASME BPE guidelines in all fabrication activities.

• Supervise polishing, grinding, and cleaning to achieve specified surface roughness (e.g., ≤ 20Ra or electropolished).

• Ensure sanitary handling practices are followed, including material protection, purging, and contamination control.

5. Process Optimization and Safety

• Recommend improvements to fabrication processes, tooling, or methods to reduce cycle time and improve quality.

• Maintain and promote a culture of safety, clean work practices, and continuous improvement.

• Assist with scheduling, resource planning, and project reporting as needed.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or technical certification in welding or fabrication; advanced mechanical or fabrication training preferred.

• Minimum 5–8 years of experience in stainless steel fabrication, with at least 2 years in a leadership or senior-level role.

• Expert knowledge of sanitary fabrication standards, including ASME BPE, 3-A, and cGMP.

• Proficient in the use of fabrication tools, orbital welding support equipment, jigs, and fixtures.

• Strong ability to interpret engineering drawings and mechanical blueprints.

Preferred Skills:

• Background in the food, beverage, biotech, or pharmaceutical industry.

• Skilled in TIG welding fit-up and orbital weld prep.

• Familiarity with hydrostatic testing, surface finish inspection, and dimensional QA/QC processes.

• Comfortable leading small teams and coordinating multi-phase fabrication efforts.

Core Competencies:

• Technical precision and craftsmanship

• Leadership and mentoring

• Quality assurance and sanitary compliance

• Project execution and attention to detail

• Communication and teamwork across departments