Fabricator

Mid-Level Fabricator


Location: Charlottesville, VA
Company: Gropen Inc.


Pay Range: $23-$26 per hour - (Experience Level will determine rate of pay)

At Gropen, we build custom signage, branded environments, exhibits, and specialty projects that are designed to stand out. No two projects are exactly alike, and we're looking for a Fabricator who enjoys both the craftsmanship and problem-solving that come with custom work.

This role is more than simply cutting parts and assembling pieces. We need someone who can look at a drawing and think through how it becomes a finished product in the real world. Someone who understands materials, build methods, fit and finish, and how fabrication decisions affect the final result. The right person has solid fabrication skills, strong shop instincts, and takes pride in building quality work. You should be comfortable figuring things out, adapting when needed, and working closely with a team to bring creative ideas to life.

What You'll Do

• Fabricate custom signage, displays, exhibits, and architectural elements using metal, wood, acrylic, composites, and other specialty materials
• Interpret shop drawings, renderings, and production files and translate them into finished physical products
• Think through fabrication methods, sequencing, structural integrity, and installation requirements during the build process
• Weld, cut, grind, assemble, finish, and refine components with a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail
• Collaborate with designers and project teams to solve fabrication challenges and improve build efficiency
• Identify potential production or installation issues before they become problems
• Operate fabrication equipment safely and effectively, including saws, welders, CNC equipment, routers, and finishing tools
• Help maintain quality standards across projects from concept through final assembly
• Support installations and field adjustments as needed
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workspace

What We're Looking For

• Experience in metal fabrication, custom fabrication, signage, scenic, exhibit, millwork, or related trades
• Ability to read shop drawings and understand how concepts translate into physical builds
• Strong spatial awareness and mechanical intuition
• Creative problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt when plans evolve
• Pride in craftsmanship and ownership of your work
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where projects vary constantly
• Ability to balance efficiency with quality
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Dependable, self-motivated, and willing to learn

Bonus Points For

• MIG/TIG welding experience
• Experience in architectural signage or experiential fabrication
• CNC operation or programming experience
• Experience with custom one-off projects versus high-volume production
• Understanding of installation methods and field conditions
• Ability to contribute ideas that improve process, quality, or execution

The Perks

• Full-time position
• Competitive pay based on experience and capability
• Paid holidays and PTO
• Affordable health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) eligibility after one year
• Monday-Friday schedule

Why Gropen

At Gropen, we build things that people experience in the real world. Our work exists in hospitals, campuses, parks, commercial spaces, and public environments across the country. We're a team of makers, problem solvers, designers, and builders who care deeply about quality and collaboration. We value curiosity, initiative, craftsmanship, and people who want to continue growing their skills. If you enjoy creative fabrication, solving unique challenges, and building work you can genuinely be proud of, you'll fit in well here.