What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate Fabrication Engineer - Early Career Rotational Program position at JGM?
Program Overview
2 Positions Available
The JGM Engineering Graduate Rotational Program is a comprehensive 18-month initiative designed to provide recent engineering graduates with hands-on experience to help launch their career in structural steel fabrication. As an Associate Fabrication Engineer - Early Career Rotational Program in this program, participants will gain exposure to three key areas within JGM: Shop Floor Operations, Production Control, as well as Estimating/Purchasing. The goal is to offer in-depth experience under the guidance of industry experts, preparing participants for future leadership roles within our company on the fabrication side of the business by rotating through the departments within JGM per below (not necessarily in this order).
This is NOT a behind the desk job... you will be working on the floor directly with our production team including plant superintendent, welders, fitters/fabricators, machine operators, project managers and health and safety.
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Rotation 1: Shop Floor Engineer (6 Months)
Supervisor: Plant Superintendent
Objective:
Learn fabrication processes by working directly on the shop floor with welders, fitters, and machinists.
Key Responsibilities:
- Shadow shop supervisors and team leads to understand workflow.
- Monitor safety, quality, and productivity on fabrication lines.
- Support equipment troubleshooting and process improvements.
- Assist in implementing lean manufacturing and 5S initiatives.
- Production reporting and analysis
Skills Developed:
- Welding/fabrication process knowledge.
- Safety management.
- Equipment utilization.
- Quality control.
Outcome:
Develop the ability to understand shop floor operations and identify opportunities for improving safety, quality, and efficiency.
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Rotation 2: Production Control Engineer (6 Months)
Supervisor: Production Control Manager
Objective:
Gain expertise in scheduling, material flow, and process optimization.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and monitor production schedules.
- Track work orders, shop loading, and throughput.
- Coordinate with supervisors to minimize bottlenecks.
- Utilize ERP/MRP systems Tekla and Spectrum
- Equipment programming.
Skills Developed:
- Scheduling.
- Shop logistics.
- Data-driven decision making.
- ERP tools.
Outcome:
Gain the capability to effectively manage production schedules and optimize workflow across the shop.
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Rotation 3: Estimating & Purchasing Engineer (6 Months)
Supervisor: Estimating Manager / Procurement Manager
Objective:
Learn the business side of fabrication through cost estimating and vendor engagement.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist estimators with quantity takeoffs and bid preparation.
- Develop cost models for fabrication projects.
- Source vendors, negotiate pricing, and issue POs.
- Collaborate with project teams to align procurement with schedules.
Skills Developed:
- Cost analysis.
- Vendor management.
- Negotiation.
- Estimating software & Tekla.
Outcome:
Build the foundation to prepare accurate cost estimates and manage vendor relationships that support project success.
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Program Benefits
- Comprehensive training across technical, operational, and commercial functions.
- One-on-one mentorship with senior fabrication leaders.
- Career exploration leading to paths in plant supervision, estimating, or supply chain.
Completion
Graduates who complete the program will have a strong foundation in fabrication, production control, and estimating, making them well-prepared for leadership roles in JGM’s fabrication division.
Education & Requirements
- Must have a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in one of the following disciplines: Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Civil/Structural Engineering.
- Experience in steel fabrication or manufacturing is a plus but not a requirement.
- Must be a critical thinker and problem solver.
Must be available to work in a high-paced, dynamic work environment.
JGM offers a competitive wage and benefit package:
- Participate in the company’s yearly performance bonus program
- Medical, Vision & Dental
- PTO & Holidays
- 401(k) Matching
- Life Insurance
- Short/Long-Term Disability
- Employee Assistance Program
- Generous Referral Program
- Training and Further Education
This job description is subject to change based on the needs of the business and is not all-inclusive.
JGM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
Salary : $65,000 - $75,000