Fabrication and Machine Shop Lead

Job Description

Job Description

West Fork Environmental is seeking an experienced, hands-on Fabrication and Machine Shop Lead to take projects from initial concept through completed construction. This is not a production-welding position. Our shop builds varied, specialized equipment for environmental research, fisheries, forestry, field operations, and other custom applications. The work changes regularly and often requires practical problem-solving, prototyping, and collaboration with scientists and field professionals.

The successful candidate will be a disciplined and accomplished fabricator who enjoys working independently, solving unusual problems, and leading a small shop while remaining actively involved in the work.

Primary Responsibilities

• Plan and complete custom fabrication projects from sketches, drawings, 3D models, or initial concepts.
• Perform high-quality MIG and TIG welding and fabrication using mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other materials.
• Develop or refine 3D models, shop drawings, material lists, and fabrication plans.
• Operate manual and/or CNC machine tools and other shop equipment.
• Estimate labor, materials, and project schedules.
• Coordinate purchasing, work assignments, fabrication sequencing, and delivery deadlines.
• Provide day-to-day direction and technical guidance to other shop personnel.
• Maintain high standards for workmanship, quality control, safety, equipment care, and shop organization.
• Work collaboratively with technical staff to turn practical needs and ideas into durable, functional equipment.

Qualifications

Candidates should have substantial, progressively responsible experience in metal fabrication and welding, including experience completing custom projects rather than repetitive production work. The position requires strong layout, fit-up, drawing interpretation, and fabrication-sequencing skills.

The strongest candidates will also have experience in several of the following areas:

• 3D CAD using SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Inventor, or comparable software.
• Manual or CNC mills, lathes, plasma tables, and related machine tools.
• Custom equipment, prototype, marine, research, or industrial fabrication.
• Shop leadership, project scheduling, purchasing, and estimating.
• AWS welding certifications or equivalent demonstrated ability.
• Troubleshooting and improving designs during fabrication.

We are looking for sound judgment, craftsmanship, reliability, and the ability to complete projects—not simply a list of certifications. Candidates must be able to communicate effectively, manage competing priorities, and work productively with limited supervision.

Compensation and Benefits

West Fork Environmental offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits package:

• $35–$40 per hour, depending on demonstrated experience and capabilities.
• West Fork pays 100% of the health-insurance premium for the employee, spouse, and dependent children.
• Employer-sponsored retirement plan.
• Paid holidays.
• Paid time off.
• Varied and interesting custom projects in place of repetitive production welding.
• Opportunity to take control of shop operations and influence how specialized equipment is designed and built.

To Apply

Please submit a résumé and a brief description of relevant fabrication, welding, machining, 3D-modeling, and shop-leadership experience. Photographs or a portfolio of completed projects are encouraged.