Fabrication Shop Manager

Found Rentals•Fullerton, CA

2d•$80,000 - $100,000

About The Position

The Fab Lab Manager at Found Rental Co. is the senior leader of our fabrication and repair operations across two locations. This role oversees all fabrication projects, team development, workflow systems, and quality standards to ensure our inventory is built, repaired, and preserved at the highest level of craftsmanship. This position is ideal for a master craftsperson with strong leadership skills and a strategic mindset. The Fab Lab Manager balances hands-on technical expertise with people leadership, planning, and operational excellence. In an events-driven environment where deadlines are absolute, this leader ensures projects are completed on time, safely, and to Found’s quality standards — while fostering a culture of learning, collaboration, and pride in craft.

Requirements

Advanced experience in furniture and décor fabrication using wood, metal, upholstery, and mixed materials
Strong knowledge of carpentry, finish carpentry, basic welding, painting, finishing, and structural reinforcement
Proven leadership and coaching experience managing skilled teams
Ability to read technical drawings and translate concepts into buildable solutions
Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills
Strong understanding of workshop safety standards and best practices
Physically capable of performing and overseeing hands-on fabrication work

Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and manage craftsmen, journeymen, and apprentices across two fabrication locations
Oversee staffing, training, and performance evaluations
Foster a team culture rooted in accountability, safety, respect, and gratitude
Build and develop future craft leaders within the organization
Manage staffing schedules for both Fullerton and Benicia fabrication teams to ensure proper coverage, workload balance, and deadline alignment
Oversee timekeeping, attendance, and daily labor planning for both locations
Conduct regular performance check-ins and evaluations for Fab Lab team members
Address performance concerns promptly with coaching, corrective action, and development plans
Build and maintain a culture of accountability, consistency, and growth across both workshops
Plan and assign fabrication and repair tasks based on production needs and firm event deadlines
Monitor project progress, troubleshoot delays, and ensure timely completion
Coordinate with Design, Warehouse, Sales, and Operations to align fabrication priorities
Support custom builds and specialty projects
Uphold rigorous standards of craftsmanship, safety, and aesthetic integrity
Review completed work for functionality, durability, and design quality
Implement quality control checkpoints and continuous improvement initiatives
Protect the original integrity of antique and specialty pieces
Manage fabrication workflows, tool inventory, material supply, and equipment maintenance
Oversee workshop organization using 6S (or similar) systems
Ensure compliance with all safety protocols and California labor laws
Maintain clean, organized, and efficient fabrication environments
Own daily and weekly production schedules across both fabrication locations
Ensure labor hours align with production priorities and event timelines
Monitor productivity and adjust staffing plans based on workload and seasonality
Partner with Operations leadership on labor forecasting and resource planning
Collaborate with leadership on new fabrication methods, materials, and process improvements
Provide input on custom builds, product development, and collection growth
Analyze department performance and recommend efficiency gains
Balance innovation with consistency and scalability