Fabrication Supervisor

Our client, who build ships, defense systems, aerospace components, and heavy steel structures, is seeking a Fabrication Supervisor to join their 1st shift (day) team in Yonges Island, SC.

The Fabrication Supervisor oversees daily operations in the fabrication department, including welding, fitting, and assembly of structural steel and other metal components. This role ensures projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with quality standards, drawings, and customer specifications. The Fabrication Supervisor provides leadership, technical guidance, and direction to welders, fitters, and helpers while coordinating with production management, engineering, and quality teams to meet schedule and cost objectives.

Responsibilities:

• Supervise and coordinate the activities of welders, fitters, and support personnel in the fabrication shop.
• Plan, prioritize, and assign work based on production schedules, manpower, and material availability.
• Ensure all work is performed in accordance with blueprints, fabrication drawings, Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), and company standards.
• Inspect fabricated assemblies for quality, dimensional accuracy, and compliance with specifications.
• Monitor progress to ensure timely completion of projects while maintaining productivity and cost targets.
• Provide technical direction and hands-on assistance in welding and fitting when necessary.
• Train, mentor, and evaluate employees to improve skills, quality, and efficiency.
• Enforce company safety policies, ensuring a safe working environment and proper use of PPE and tools.
• Collaborate with engineering, quality control, and project management to resolve production or technical issues.
• Maintain records of production, labor hours, rework, and material usage.
• Recommend process improvements, tooling needs, and equipment maintenance schedules.
• Support onboarding and certification of new welders and fitters in accordance with company and AWS standards.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical or vocational training in welding/fabrication preferred.
• Minimum 8+ years of experience in structural fabrication, including 3+ years in a lead or supervisory capacity.
• Multiple process welding certifications and/or experience with certified welders preferred.
• Experience with heavy steel fabrication, DOD, or industrial projects is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of structural fabrication, welding processes (FCAW, GMAW, GTAW, SMAW), and fitting practices.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, structural drawings, and WPS documents.
• Understanding of weld symbols, joint configurations, and fabrication tolerances.
• Familiarity with AWS D1.1 or similar codes and quality inspection requirements.
• Proficiency with measuring tools, fit-up gauges, and layout instruments.
• Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage workflow, personnel, and materials in a fast-paced production environment.
• Working knowledge of shop safety standards and OSHA regulations.