Job Description

Workshop Supervisor & Lead Fabricator

Job Title:

Workshop Supervisor & Lead Fabricator

Reports to:

Operations Manager (initially Managing Director)

Department:

Production / Fabrication

Location:

Milton Keynes

Purpose of the Role

To lead and coordinate the daily activities of the fabrication and machining team while also contributing directly to hands-on fabrication work. This role acts as the key link between the output of the sales process and the delivery of production work, ensuring that jobs are completed in sequence, to specification, and on time. As a senior fabricator, the role also sets the technical standard, supports continuous improvement initiatives, and helps build a high-performing, collaborative production team.

Key Responsibilities

Perform high-quality MIG and TIG welding, fabrication, and assembly work as part of the production team.

Supervise, coordinate, and support the day-to-day activities of the fabrication and machining team.

Translate sales orders and job packs into actionable production tasks and ensure they are executed effectively.

Liaise closely with the Operations Manager, Production Planning, and Production Control to ensure alignment and clarity on job priorities, sequences, and delivery timelines.

Monitor progress and provide feedback on job status, team performance, and production targets.

Support a culture of continuous improvement (Kaizen) by identifying and acting on opportunities to improve workflow, reduce waste, and raise quality standards.

Ensure correct interpretation of engineering drawings and adherence to specifications.

Support and mentor less experienced team members, sharing skills and maintaining high standards.

Escalate material shortages, delays, or production issues promptly to ensure minimal disruption.

Promote a safe, clean, and efficient workshop environment in line with health and safety protocols.

Specific Process Tasks

Lead fabrication and welding of mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminium components.

Set up and use 3D fixturing tables and jigs to ensure consistency and accuracy.

Weld using MIG and TIG to a high standard, controlling distortion and ensuring quality.

Carry out cutting, grinding, blending, and finishing tasks.

Supervise and support sheet metal processing: guillotine, notching, press brake, and folder use.

Assist with marking out, drilling, tapping, and basic manual machining as required.

Interpret technical drawings and specifications, ensuring parts meet required tolerances.

Support the team in material preparation, organisation, and job setup.

Act as point of contact for production planning and control to align schedules and resolve issues.

Identify and contribute to process improvements that enhance workshop efficiency.

Person Specification Essential Skills and Experience

Extensive hands-on experience in fabrication, welding, and workshop operations.

Proficient in MIG and TIG welding with ability to meet high quality standards.

Experience reading and working from engineering drawings and specifications.

Experience supervising or coordinating a team in a workshop or manufacturing setting.

Strong organisational and communication skills.

Commitment to quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement.

Desirable Skills

Experience supporting or liaising with production planning or control functions.

Experience in sheet metal processing, press brake operation, or manual machining.

Qualifications

Welding or fabrication qualifications (e.g., City & Guilds, NVQ Level 3) or equivalent experience.

Leadership or supervisory training (formal or informal) is desirable.

Health & Safety training including manual handling, workshop safety, and machine use.

Behavioural Traits / Cultural Fit

Proactive and solution-focused mindset.

Strong sense of ownership and personal responsibility.

Team-oriented and willing to support and guide others.

Respect for quality, safety, and doing things right first time.

Aligned with the values of a growing, professional, and customer-focused business.

Working Conditions

Workshop-based role in Milton Keynes.

Standard working hours (e.g. 8:00am - 4:30pm, Monday - Friday).

Overtime may be available during busy periods.

PPE provided.

Physically demanding role involving manual handling, fabrication equipment, and tool use.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 36,000.00 per year

Additional pay:

Performance bonus
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 30/06/2025
Reference ID: AEL001CF
Expected start date: 07/07/2025