Fabrication Manager, Signage

Position Summary The Signage Shop Fabrication Manager is a hands-on, working manager responsible for leading and actively participating in daily signage fabrication operations. This role combines direct fabrication work with team leadership, production scheduling, quality control, and workflow management to ensure projects are completed safely, accurately, on time, and within established standards. The manager is expected to work alongside the fabrication team, demonstrate strong technical skills, and lead by example while maintaining accountability for productivity, workmanship, and deadlines. This position serves as the primary link between shop personnel, Project Managers, Signage Engineers, and senior leadership to ensure efficient execution of all fabrication projects. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Production Management & Hands-On Fabrication Actively participate in daily fabrication, including welding, assembly, finishing, and other shop tasks as needed. Plan, schedule, and oversee daily production to meet project deadlines and priorities. Assign work, monitor progress, and adjust workloads to maintain productivity and workflow. Interpret shop drawings and ensure fabricated signage meets project specifications, quality standards, and applicable regulations. Identify production challenges and implement solutions to prevent delays and rework. Team Leadership Supervise, train, and mentor fabrication staff while working alongside the team. Set clear expectations for productivity, workmanship, attendance, and accountability. Lead daily production meetings to communicate priorities and address challenges. Support hiring, performance reviews, employee development, and disciplinary actions as needed. Foster a team-oriented culture focused on safety, quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement. Quality Control & Safety Inspect materials, work in progress, and completed products to ensure quality and accuracy. Ensure equipment is properly maintained and operated safely. Enforce company safety procedures and applicable OSHA requirements. Participate in the company safety committee and promote safe work practices throughout the shop. Workflow & Coordination Coordinate closely with Project Managers and Signage Engineers to clarify job requirements, resolve issues, and maintain production schedules. Work with inventory and purchasing personnel to ensure materials and supplies are available when needed. Monitor project status and communicate potential delays or resource constraints to management. Coordinate shop resources to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime. Administrative & Process Improvement Maintain accurate employee timesheets and production records. Identify opportunities to improve fabrication processes, reduce waste, and increase productivity. Help establish and maintain consistent production standards and procedures. Requirements Experience/Skills 3+ years in signage production or fabrication, with at least 12 years in a supervisory role.Proficiency with aluminum welding (MIG), Spray Painting and finishing techniques.Strong ability to lead a team, delegate tasks, and resolve conflicts effectively.Clear and professional verbal and written communication.Read blueprints/shop drawings, and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment. Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of signage installation and signage fabricationFamiliarity with SketchUpExperience with lean manufacturing or process improvement methods. Work Environment Full-time, on-site role in a production facility environment.Frequent standing, bending, and lifting required.Overtime or weekend work may be needed to meet deadlines.Ability to lift over 50 lbs. Key Performance Expectations Maintain a hands-on leadership presence in daily shop operations. Deliver projects on schedule while meeting quality and safety standards. Maintain consistent productivity and effective use of labor and materials. Minimize fabrication errors, rework, and material waste. Develop a skilled, accountable, and safety-conscious fabrication team.