VP of Production / VP of Fabrication Engineering

The Vice President of Production / Fabrication Engineering is responsible for strategic leadership and operational oversight of all production and fabrication functions. This role ensures that products are manufactured efficiently, at high quality, and in alignment with engineering standards and company goals. The VP collaborates cross-functionally to scale operations, drive innovation, ensure compliance, and lead the continuous improvement of manufacturing processes, with a specific focus on fabrication technologies (welding, machining, sheet metal, pressure vessels, etc.).

Key Responsibilities:

🏭 Strategic Operations Leadership

• Develop and execute long-term strategies for production and fabrication capabilities to support business growth

• Lead all aspects of manufacturing operations, including fabrication, machining, assembly, testing, and finishing

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for safety, quality, cost, delivery, and innovation

🔧 Fabrication & Engineering Oversight

• Drive engineering excellence in metal fabrication: welding, cutting, forming, and CNC machining

• Oversee the development and implementation of manufacturing and fabrication process standards

• Ensure compliance with industry regulations (e.g., ASME, AWS, API, ISO) and certifications (NADCAP, AS9100 if aerospace)

📈 Operational Efficiency & Innovation

• Implement lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, and Industry 4.0 methodologies to optimize plant performance

• Introduce advanced fabrication technologies (robotic welding, laser/plasma cutting, additive manufacturing)

• Lead capital investments for equipment, facilities, and production automation

👥 Executive & Cross-Functional Leadership

• Lead and mentor Directors, Engineering Managers, and Plant Managers across multiple sites (if applicable)

• Partner with R&D, Quality, SCM, and Product Development teams to ensure design-for-manufacturability (DFM) and smooth product launches

• Represent production/fabrication functions in executive decision-making and customer engagements

✅ Quality, Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to environmental, health, and safety standards (OSHA, ISO 45001, etc.)

• Drive a zero-defect culture and ensure high standards of workmanship and product reliability

• Lead root cause analysis, non-conformance reviews, and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA)

Key Focus Areas:

• Strategic direction of manufacturing and fabrication units

• Efficiency, throughput, and productivity enhancement

• Advanced fabrication technologies and systems integration

• Leadership development and talent management

• Manufacturing cost control and operational excellence

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (Master’s/MBA preferred)

• Minimum 18+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing/fabrication, including 5+ years at a VP or senior leadership level

• Deep experience with heavy fabrication, precision machining, structural components, or engineered products

Preferred Skills:

• Expert knowledge in ASME, AWS, ISO, and other global manufacturing standards

• Proven experience in scaling operations, greenfield projects, and global manufacturing setups

• Strong business acumen and ability to lead multidisciplinary teams

• Experience working with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle), MES, and digital manufacturing tools

Certifications (Preferred):

• Six Sigma Black Belt / Lean Manufacturing Certification

• Certified Welding Engineer (CWE) or Welding Inspector (CWI) – if relevant to operations

• PMP or equivalent for program oversight and capital projects

Working Conditions:

• Primarily based at corporate HQ or main manufacturing site with frequent travel to facilities and suppliers

• Role involves regular engagement with executive teams, clients, auditors, and industry bodies