Job Description

Fabrication Shop Lead – Structural Steel (2nd Shift)

Location: Richmond, VA
Shift: Second Shift
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Compensation: $32.00/hour and up (based on experience)

A growing steel fabrication operation is seeking a skilled Shop Lead to oversee second-shift production. This role is responsible for guiding fabrication personnel, supporting daily production targets, and maintaining consistent quality and safety standards across all shop activities.

This opportunity is well-suited for a hands-on leader with a strong background in structural steel fabrication who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.

Primary Duties

Production & Workflow Management

• Support execution of daily production plans and ensure fabrication deadlines are met
• Oversee second-shift shop operations, including welders, fitters, and support staff
• Assign and reallocate tasks to maximize efficiency and output
• Monitor production flow and make real-time adjustments as needed

Team Leadership

• Provide technical support in layout, welding, and blueprint interpretation
• Troubleshoot fabrication issues and guide team members through solutions
• Reinforce workplace safety standards and operational expectations
• Mentor team members and contribute to skill development

Quality Assurance & Safety Compliance

• Partner with quality teams to ensure work meets AISC requirements
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized shop environment
• Support ongoing improvements in safety practices and product quality

Equipment & Shop Operations

• Coordinate with maintenance personnel to minimize downtime
• Track equipment performance and escalate issues when necessary

Administrative & Staff Support

• Assist with onboarding, training, and performance evaluations
• Support time tracking, documentation, and disciplinary actions when needed
• Participate in recruitment efforts for fabrication staff
• Contribute to overall shop operations and continuous improvement initiatives

Minimum Requirements

• Strong background in structural steel fabrication, including welding and layout
• Experience working with CNC equipment and fabrication machinery
• Knowledge of production processes, safety standards, and quality control practices
• Ability to work effectively within a team-driven environment
• Solid communication and organizational skills
• Flexibility to work overtime and weekends as required
• High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Background

• Prior leadership or supervisory experience in a fabrication or manufacturing setting
• Technical training, certification, or associate degree in a related field
• Familiarity with AISC standards and steel fabrication workflows

Why This Opportunity Stands Out
This role offers the chance to step into a key leadership position within a busy fabrication shop, where your hands-on expertise and leadership directly influence production success, team performance, and operational efficiency.