Job Title: Fabrication Team Leader Location: UK-Based Fabrication Company Reports to: Operations Manager Department: Production / Fabrication Hours: Full-Time, Monday to Thursday 07:15–16:30, Friday 07:15–12:15 (flexibility required) Company Overview: A leading UK-based fabrication company specialising in high-quality welded assemblies for the Aerospace and Defence sectors. Operating in a fast-paced and diverse production environment, the company supports a wide variety of customer needs—from batch production and prototyping to full-scale manufacturing, design, and on-site installation. Certified to ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and EN 15085 standards, the company is committed to excellence, innovation, and continued expansion. Role Summary: A proactive and experienced Fabrication Team Leader is required to support the Senior Leadership Team and play a key role in managing day-to-day operations on the shop floor. This hands-on role involves leading a team of fabricators and welders to ensure production targets are met while upholding high standards in quality, safety, and continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities: Leadership & Team Management * Lead, motivate, and support the fabrication team to achieve daily production targets. * Provide training, mentoring, and development, particularly in welding techniques and safety standards. * Foster a collaborative and accountable team culture. * Conduct performance reviews and monitor attendance. * Support HR-related processes including disciplinary and return-to-work procedures. Production Oversight * Ensure smooth workflow and scheduling to meet deadlines. * Allocate labour based on project needs and team skillsets. * Monitor project progress and address production bottlenecks. * Maintain strong communication with Engineering, Quality, and Logistics teams. Technical Responsibilities * Interpret technical drawings and ensure precision in production. * Support welding quality standards and perform weld coordination tasks when necessary. * Promote and implement TPM, 5S/6S, and Lean Manufacturing practices. * Ensure adherence to EN 15085, IATF 16949, and ISO 9001. Health, Safety & Compliance * Promote a safety-first culture, ensuring compliance with PPE and H&S policies. * Conduct safety inspections and toolbox talks. * Respond to incidents and participate in investigations. Continuous Improvement * Lead process improvements to boost efficiency and reduce waste. * Assist with capacity planning and resource management. * Contribute to strategic planning and cross-functional production projects. Skills & Qualifications: Essential: * Proven leadership experience in a fabrication or welding environment. * In-depth knowledge of MIG/TIG welding, fabrication techniques, and engineering drawings. * Strong organisational, problem-solving, and time-management abilities. * Confident communicator and motivator with a hands-on leadership style. * Strong commitment to quality, compliance, and safety. Desirable: * Experience in Aerospace, Defence, or other regulated industries. * Exposure to CNC laser cutting and press brake operations. * Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles. * Familiarity with EN 15085, ISO 9001, and IATF 16949 standards