What are the responsibilities and job description for the Fabrication Lead position at Custom Patch Hats?
Description
Job Title: Fabrication Lead
Department: Production
Classification: Non-exempt
Reports to: Assistant General Manager
Supervises: Yes
Work Location: Raleigh, NC Warehouse
Job Summary
The Fabrication Lead oversees daily operations across the embroidery, laser, and heat press teams to ensure efficient production of high-quality products. This role combines hands-on fabrication expertise with team leadership, problem-solving, and workflow coordination. The Fabrication Lead supports team members, resolves production issues, and partners cross-functionally to ensure orders are executed accurately and on time—contributing to a reliable, high-quality experience for our clients and team.
Key Responsibilities
Physical Demands
Full-time position, Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
Job Title: Fabrication Lead
Department: Production
Classification: Non-exempt
Reports to: Assistant General Manager
Supervises: Yes
Work Location: Raleigh, NC Warehouse
Job Summary
The Fabrication Lead oversees daily operations across the embroidery, laser, and heat press teams to ensure efficient production of high-quality products. This role combines hands-on fabrication expertise with team leadership, problem-solving, and workflow coordination. The Fabrication Lead supports team members, resolves production issues, and partners cross-functionally to ensure orders are executed accurately and on time—contributing to a reliable, high-quality experience for our clients and team.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee daily workflow across embroidery, laser, and heat press operations to meet production goals and maintain consistent quality.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for fabrication-related questions and order issues; troubleshoot and resolve problems in real time with a solutions-focused mindset.
- Create and review order proofs to ensure accuracy and alignment before production begins.
- Partner with the Design Sales team to interpret and execute custom designs accurately, supporting a seamless client experience.
- Operate fabrication equipment as needed to support production flow and team success.
- Schedule and perform routine maintenance on embroidery, laser, and heat press machines to ensure reliability and efficiency.
- Manage inventory of materials and supplies across fabrication areas, maintaining readiness without excess.
- Communicate proactively with the Assistant General Manager about risks to quality, timelines, or production targets, and offer thoughtful solutions.
- Provide clear direction, support, and coaching to fabrication team members, fostering a respectful and collaborative team environment.
- Train and onboard new employees; support ongoing development of team members through hands-on guidance and feedback.
- Lead quarterly conversations with direct reports, encouraging open dialogue around what’s working, what’s not, and growth opportunities.
- Model accountability by following through on commitments and holding the team to clear standards.
- Build trust through consistent actions and communication, contributing to a positive and engaged team culture.
Physical Demands
- Perform fast, repetitive hand and arm movements.
- Maintain close visual attention to detail for precision work.
- Work safely with industrial machinery and tools in a high-noise environment using required safety equipment.
- Stand, walk, and move throughout the production floor for extended periods.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Experience: 2 years of fabrication, embroidery, or related production experience preferred; prior leadership or team lead experience strongly preferred.
- Skills: Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and organizational skills.
- Work Style: Ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt as needs change, and contribute to a team environment where people support one another and take ownership of outcomes.
Full-time position, Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.