Fabrications Team Leader

Harry Burrows Fabrications is 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, we support a variety of customer needs ranging from batch production and prototyping to full-scale manufacturing, design, and on-site installation. With certifications including ISO 9001, IATF 16949 and EN 15085, we are committed to excellence, innovation, and expanding our service offering—soon including in-house machining.

Not sure what skills you will need for this opportunity Simply read the full description below to get a complete picture of candidate requirements.

This role would be perfect for a previous Welding Supervisor or Fabrications Foreman.

Job Title: Fabrications Team Leader

Location: Harry Burrows Fabrications, UK

Reports to: Operations Manager

Department: Production / Fabrication

Hours: Full-Time, Monday to Thursday 07:15-16:30 Friday 07:15-12:15 (flexibility required

Fabrications Team Leader - Role Summary
We are seeking a proactive and experienced Production Team Leader to support the Senior Leadership Team and play a critical role in managing day-to-day operations on the shop floor. This hands-on role will involve overseeing a team of fabricators and welders, ensuring operational efficiency, maintaining quality standards, and meeting production targets while promoting a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

Fabrications Team Leader - Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, motivate, and support the fabrication team to achieve daily production targets.
• Provide training, mentoring, and development to team members, particularly in welding techniques and safety standards.
• Foster a collaborative and accountable team culture.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and attendance monitoring.
• Support HR processes including discipline, grievance, and return-to-work procedures.

Production Oversight

• Ensure smooth workflow and scheduling to meet customer deadlines.
• Allocate labour effectively based on project requirements and available skills.
• Monitor project progress and resolve any production bottlenecks or issues.
• Maintain strong communication with Engineering, Quality, and Logistics departments.

Technical Responsibilities

• Interpret technical drawings and ensure products meet exact specifications.
• Champion welding quality standards and support weld coordination tasks when required.
• Support implementation of TPM, 5S/6S, and Lean Manufacturing techniques.
• Support implementation and adherence to EN 15085, IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 standards.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Promote a safety-first culture, ensuring all team members adhere to PPE and H&S policies.
• Conduct safety checks and toolbox talks as required.
• Respond to incidents and participate in investigations when necessary.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify and lead process improvements to boost efficiency and reduce waste.
• Assist the Operations Manager in capacity planning and resource management.
• Contribute to strategic production planning and cross-functional projects.

Essential
Fabrications Team Leader - Skills & Qualifications:

• Proven experience in a leadership role within a fabrication or welding environment.
• Strong knowledge of MIG/TIG welding, fabrication techniques, and engineering drawings.
• Excellent organisational, problem-solving, and time-management skills.
• 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 sectors.
• Exposure to CNC laser cutting and press brake operations.
• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Familiarity with EN 15085, ISO 9001, and IATF 16949.

Fabrications Team Leader - What We Offer

• Competitive salary (based on experience)
• Pension scheme
• Opportunities for professional development and training
• A dynamic and supportive work environment
• Career progression as we expand into new sectors and capabilities