Fabrication Team Lead

Keel Platform LLC•Meggett, SC

About The Position

Keel was formed by bringing together three industry leaders combining generations of hands-on expertise in steel fabrication, shipbuilding, aerospace, and defense manufacturing. That means when you join Keel, you’re joining a team backed by decades of proven craftsmanship and real-world results. We build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures that serve critical missions — and we do it with pride. Your Mission: The Fabrication Team Lead assists the Supervisor by overseeing daily welding and fabrication activities, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and to quality standards. This role requires strong leadership, communication, and advanced welding and blueprint-reading skills. Responsibilities include planning and executing jobs, inspecting work, mentoring employees, and enforcing company policies. The Lead uses independent judgment in selecting methods, materials, and equipment, and communicates any workforce or production issues to management.

Requirements

Advanced welding proficiency (FCAW, GMAW, SMAW, arc and gas welding)
Strong blueprint reading and interpretation
Knowledge of fabrication, structural assembly, and metal properties
Ability to analyze work orders and plan job sequences
Equipment operation (welders, cutting torch, shop cranes, forklifts)
Inspection and quality control of work in progress and finished products
Repair and rework techniques
May require a high school diploma or its equivalent with at least 5 years of experience in the field or in a related area.

Responsibilities

Review work orders and blueprints to understand job requirements, materials, and sequence of operations
Plan and organize daily tasks to maximize efficiency and meet production deadlines
Set up welding and fabrication equipment based on job specifications
Perform advanced welding using FCAW, GMAW, SMAW, and other methods as needed
Assemble, tack, bolt, and secure parts in preparation for welding
Oversee and guide team members in welding, fabrication, and assembly activities
Inspect work in progress and completed products to ensure quality standards are met
Troubleshoot issues and determine proper repair methods, materials, and equipment
Operate shop equipment such as cranes and forklifts safely
Repair or rework parts by cutting, reshaping, and reassembling components when necessary
Monitor employee productivity and provide coaching or mentoring as needed
Communicate any performance or operational concerns to Supervisor/Management
Enforce company policies, safety regulations, and quality procedures
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
Perform additional duties as assigned by the Supervisor