Director of Fabrication

Director of Fabrication

Location: Greater Philadelphia

Type: Full Time, In-Person

Salary: Starting at $150,000 - $175,000 Benefits

*This role is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania*

Executive Summary

BRDG Studios is a boutique design / build / creative technology studio looking for a strategic and highly experienced Director of Fabrication to lead our fabrication and assembly operations. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for transforming design concepts into world-class physical realities. You will oversee the entire production lifecycle - from post-design engineering through global deployment - while managing multiple facilities and assets, a skilled core team, and a network of external partners.

As the Director of Fabrication, you are the bridge between creative vision and operational excellence. You will align shop output with company revenue goals, spearhead technological innovation, and ensure that every project is delivered with the highest standard of craftsmanship and efficiency.

Core Responsibilities

• End-to-End Oversight: Lead the execution of projects from post-design engineering through fabrication, finishing, assembly, and deployment.
• Scaling & Growth: Develop and implement long-term strategies to expand production capabilities and refine processes to meet project constraints and industry realities.
• Multi-Project Execution: Simultaneously direct multiple workstreams and projects at varying stages of production and installation.

• Equipment Roadmap: Oversee the procurement, maintenance, and upgrading of all tools, heavy equipment, and utilities, ensuring the shops are equipped with safe, functioning tools and facilities.
• Inventory Systems: Implement and maintain efficient inventory management systems to track stock levels and ensure material availability and procurement plans for deliverables.

• Resourcing & Forecasting: Align daily, weekly and monthly staffing plans ensuring project deliverables and timelines are tightly managed. 
• Recruitment & Mentorship: Lead the recruitment and training of a core team of 15-20 specialists, while fostering a culture of excellence and safety within the Department.
• Performance Excellence: Set rigorous performance metrics and conduct regular evaluations to drive continuous improvement and high-quality output.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Work closely with Project Management and Design Engineering to ensure seamless hand-offs and execution.

• Mult-Disicplinary Solutions: At BRDG, our projects range in methodology from cabinetry builds, theatrical, and sculptural, to high tech integration.    
• Sampling, R&D & Prototyping: Fast and efficient sampling for client validation, and a prototyping ethos to push the boundaries of fabrication.
• Technological Integration: Align capabilities, materials, and processes with revenue streams - identifying opportunities for innovation and investment.

• Installation Management: Oversee the planning of on-site installations, often involving the management of third-party teams or in-house staff.
• Out-of-House Fulfillment: Coordinate shipping and logistics for projects moving out-of-house.
• Strategic Sourcing: Manage material budgets and sourcing strategies to ensure cost-effectiveness without compromising on quality.

• Strategic Partnerships: Establish and maintain relationships with external vendors specializing in finishing, powder coating, printing, and supplemental manufacturing.
• Contract Negotiation: Negotiate contracts and terms to ensure BRDG receives the best value and service levels.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure all third-party work meets BRDG’s exacting quality standards and integrates perfectly into the final project timeline.

• Experience: 8 years of experience in production management, fabrication, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership or directorial capacity.
• Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of metalwork, carpentry, shop operations, and advanced fabrication technologies (CNC, Laser, 3D printing).
• Logistics Savvy: Proven track record of managing crews, large-scale installations, and complex logistics.
• Business Acumen: Ability to translate revenue targets, and project takedowns into operational staffing, strategic production plans, and disparate workstreams.
• Leadership: Exceptional ability to recruit, train, and inspire a team of highly skilled craftspeople.
  

BRDG Studios is a full-service experiential design, fabrication, and creative technology studio. We connect visionary brands with their audiences by crafting unforgettable experiences that blend the digital and physical worlds.

As the Director of Fabrication at BRDG, you’ll play a critical role in shaping how we deliver work, support our teams, and partner with clients. You’ll have real ownership, real influence, and the opportunity to help guide the studio as we take on increasingly ambitious projects.