Lead Fabricator

Job Title: Fabrication/Mechanical Lead (Food Processing)- Day Shift 

Job Summary: The Fabrication/Mechanical Lead is responsible for overseeing the fabrication and mechanical assembly processes, ensuring high-quality production standards, and leading a team of skilled technicians in a food processing environment. This role’s support is companywide requiring 50-70 days travel annually and a strong background in welding, machining, mechanical systems, food safety, and leadership. 

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Supervision:
   • Lead and supervise a team of fabricators and mechanical technicians.
   • Assign tasks, monitor progress, and ensure timely completion of projects.
   • Provide training and mentorship to team members.

1. Fabrication and Assembly:
   • Oversee the fabrication of metal components using various welding techniques (MIG, TIG, stick welding).
   • Ensure precise mechanical assembly of parts and systems according to technical drawings and specifications.
   • Operate and maintain fabrication equipment, including shop machines, lathes, and milling machines.

1. Quality Control:
   • Implement and maintain quality control procedures to ensure high standards of workmanship.
   • Conduct inspections and tests to verify the quality and functionality of fabricated components and assemblies.
   • Address and resolve any quality issues promptly.

1. Food Processing Expertise:
   • Ensure all fabrication and assembly processes comply with food safety regulations and standards (e.g., FDA, USDA, SQF).
   • Utilize knowledge of food-grade materials and sanitary design principles to fabricate and assemble equipment used in food processing.
   • Collaborate with food safety and quality assurance teams to ensure equipment meets hygiene and sanitation requirements.

1. Technical Expertise:
   • Utilize knowledge of mechanical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
   • Read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and manuals.
   • Collaborate with engineering and design teams to optimize fabrication processes and improve product designs.

1. Safety and Compliance:
   • Ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies.
   • Promote a safe working environment and conduct regular safety training sessions.
   • Maintain a clean and organized work area.

1. Project Management:
   • Plan and coordinate fabrication and assembly projects from start to finish.
   • Monitor project timelines and resource allocation.
   • Communicate project status and updates to management and stakeholders.

1. Travel:
   • Up to 20% travel time required annually.
   • Must have a valid California Real ID Driver’s License
   • Travel to other company facilities is required to oversee projects, provide support, and ensure consistency in fabrication and assembly processes.
   • Aid engineering teams as a working foreman, providing hands-on support and expertise in fabrication and mechanical assembly.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or associate degree in a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in fabrication, mechanical assembly, and team leadership.
• Proficiency in various welding techniques (MIG, TIG, stick welding) and operation of fabrication equipment.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems.
• Experience in a food processing environment and knowledge of food safety regulations and standards.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Commitment to safety and quality standards.
• Willingness to travel to other company facilities as needed to aid engineering as a working foreman.

FOOD SAFETY REQUIREMENTS: 
        •    Place high priority on food safety, quality, and sanitation by understanding and executing Thrive Food’s food safety and sanitation policies and procedures.
        •    Hold self and others accountable to Thrive Foods food safety & sanitation guidelines and policies by communicating any food safety incident, observation, or opportunity to your leadership team or teammates.

•        •    In the absence of Lead serves as back up to ensure all food safety, quality objectives and SQF system requirements are met.