WELDING/FABRICATION MGR

Welding & Fabrication Manager

The Welding & Fabrication Manager is responsible for leading all day-to-day welding and fabrication operations related to the production of Kelly Bars, Rotary Drilling Tools, and custom fabrication projects, including modifications and enhancements to drill rig components and related equipment. This role owns execution on the shop floor, ensuring production is completed safely, efficiently, on schedule, and in full compliance with engineering specifications and applicable codes. Working closely with the Manufacturing Engineer, this position translates engineering standards into consistent execution while driving productivity, workforce performance, and overall fabrication output in a heavy equipment manufacturing environment.

Shop Operations & Production Execution

• Lead welding and fabrication operations to meet production schedules.
• Assign and prioritize work based on labor capacity, skill level, and production demands, including both standard builds and one-off custom work.
• Monitor workflow, identify bottlenecks, and adjust to maintain throughput.

Team Leadership & Workforce Management

• Supervise, train, and develop welders and fabricators to improve skill level, productivity, and quality.
• Lead performance management, including coaching, accountability, and disciplinary actions as needed.
• Support hiring, onboarding, and retention while fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Execution of Welding Standards & Technical Requirements

• Ensure strict adherence to Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and fabrication standards established by Engineering.
• Provide hands-on guidance to welders on technique, setup, and execution.
• Partner with the Manufacturing Engineer on procedure improvements, troubleshooting, and implementation of new fabrication methods.

Productivity, Cost & Performance Management

• Drive labor efficiency and overall productivity across fabrication operations.
• Monitor and improve KPIs including throughput, rework, scrap, and labor utilization.
• Support cost control initiatives and provide feedback to Engineering and Operations on cost drivers and production challenges.

Quality Assurance & Continuous Improvement

• Ensure all work meets internal quality standards and external code requirements (AWS, ASME).
• Support process improvements and standard work implementation.

Safety & Regulatory Compliance

• Enforce OSHA and company safety standards across all fabrication activities.
• Ensure proper use of PPE, equipment, and safe work practices.
• Promote a safety-first culture through training, audits, and continuous monitoring.

Qualifications/Experience Environment

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training or certifications in welding/fabrication preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience in welding and heavy fabrication, including leadership or supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of welding processes (MIG, TIG, FCAW, SMAW), fabrication techniques, and material properties, with the ability to interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and weld symbols.
• Working knowledge of applicable codes and standards (AWS, ASME) and ability to enforce compliance on the shop floor.
• Proven ability to manage production teams, schedules, and workflow in a fast-paced environment.
• Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) and/or Certified Welding Supervisor (CWS) preferred; experience with Kelly Bars, Rotary Drilling Tools, or similar heavy equipment manufacturing is a plus.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

• Work performed in a fabrication shop environment with exposure to welding, heat, noise, and heavy equipment.
• Ability to stand, walk, and actively engage on the shop floor for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as required.
• Promote a safety-first culture through training, audits, and continuous monitoring.

Travel and Schedule Expectations

• Based in Lake Worth, TX (Fort Worth, TX) with limited travel (<10%) for vendor visits, customer visits, or training.
• Standard Monday–Friday schedule with flexibility required to meet production demands.
• Occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required.