Lead Fabricator

Jennmar•Richmond, VA

About The Position

The Lead Fabricator (Working Lead) is a hands-on role supporting daily fabrication and welding activities within a precast facility. The position works under the direction of the Plant Manager and coordinates with the Project Manager to ensure fabrication work is accurate, safe, and aligned with production schedules. It does not have direct supervisory responsibilities, but provides day-to-day guidance, assigns work, and serves as a technical resource for Fabricators and Helpers. The role includes fabricating, welding, and modifying forms and components used in precast concrete production; reviewing shop drawings and blueprints; coordinating daily work; and ensuring compliance with specifications, tolerances, quality standards, and safety requirements. The Lead Fabricator also communicates production status and issues, supports training and material planning, troubleshoots challenges, and contributes to continuous improvement. Work takes place in a heavy industrial manufacturing environment with regular exposure to dust, noise, extreme temperatures, and moving machinery. The role involves frequent standing, walking, climbing, bending, and lifting, and may occasionally require work in confined spaces, elevated areas, or outdoors. Required PPE includes hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toe boots.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 4 years of fabrication and welding experience in a manufacturing or precast environment.
Strong ability to read and interpret shop drawings and blueprints.
Proficiency in MIG welding.
Experience with an oxy-acetylene cutting torch and standard fabrication equipment.
Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability.
Ability to read a tape measure and perform accurate measurements and calculations.
Demonstrated ability to guide workflow and support team members in a shop environment.
Reliable, safety-focused, and detail-oriented.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work in a physically demanding environment.

Nice To Haves

Technical or vocational training.
Welding certifications.

Responsibilities

Perform hands-on fabrication, welding, and modification of forms and components used in precast concrete production.
Assign and coordinate daily work for Fabricators and Helpers based on direction from the Plant Manager.
Review shop drawings and blueprints for clarity and accuracy before fabrication.
Ensure work meets specifications, tolerances, and quality standards.
Coordinate with the Project Manager to understand project requirements, priorities, and timelines.
Communicate production status, delays, and issues to the Plant Manager in a timely manner.
Troubleshoot fabrication challenges and escalate complex issues as needed.
Support training and knowledge-sharing with less experienced team members.
Ensure proper use of tools and equipment, including shears, saws, drill presses, and welding equipment.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in line with company safety standards.
Follow safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.
Assist with material planning and notify leadership of shortages or needs.
Support continuous improvement efforts related to efficiency, quality, and workflow.
Perform other duties as assigned.