Engineering Technician The Engineering Technician is responsible for providing hands-on technical support to the Engineering Department by assisting with the development, fabrication, testing, and implementation of manufacturing solutions at Southern Fabricators. This position involves interpreting engineering drawings, assembling and modifying metal components, performing welding and fabrication operations, and supporting engineering projects designed to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, and production capabilities. The Engineering Technician works closely with engineers, production personnel, maintenance, and other departments to develop practical solutions for manufacturing challenges. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving abilities, technical knowledge, and the ability to work independently on custom fabrication and engineering projects. By supporting engineering designs, building fixtures and tooling, troubleshooting manufacturing concerns, and assisting with continuous improvement initiatives, the Engineering Technician plays an essential role in improving production processes, reducing operational challenges, and contributing to the continued success of Southern Fabricators.
Responsibilities:
Assist Manufacturing Engineers and Engineering Management with the development, testing, and implementation of engineering projects and manufacturing improvements.
Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specifications, and fabrication instructions to complete assigned work.
Perform MIG welding and other approved fabrication operations to build, modify, and repair metal components.
Fabricate, assemble, and modify custom fixtures, jigs, tooling, brackets, and other manufacturing equipment or components.
Support the development of prototypes, custom assemblies, and one-of-a-kind fabrication projects based on engineering requirements.
Use hand tools, power tools, welding equipment, and basic shop machinery safely and effectively.
Assist with evaluating engineering designs for manufacturability, functionality, and production efficiency.
Translate two-dimensional engineering drawings into three-dimensional fabricated components and assemblies.
Measure, cut, fit, align, and assemble metal components according to engineering specifications.
Perform basic inspections and measurements to verify that fabricated components meet dimensional and quality requirements.
Utilize measuring instruments, including tape measures, calipers, squares, and other inspection tools, as needed.
Collaborate with Engineering personnel to identify design concerns, fabrication challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
Assist with troubleshooting manufacturing equipment, tooling, fixtures, and production-related mechanical issues.
Support the installation, adjustment, modification, and testing of fixtures, tooling, and manufacturing equipment.
Participate in engineering trials, prototype testing, and process evaluations to verify functionality and performance.
Assist with documenting engineering changes, fabrication modifications, test results, and project improvements.
Support continuous improvement initiatives involving workflow, equipment efficiency, tooling, safety, and manufacturing processes.
Coordinate with Production, Quality, and Maintenance personnel to resolve technical concerns and improve operational performance.
Assist with developing practical solutions to improve production efficiency, reduce rework, and support consistent product quality.
Perform basic equipment maintenance, adjustments, and troubleshooting within assigned responsibilities and training.
Maintain accurate project documentation, work instructions, and technical records as required.
Organize materials, tools, equipment, and project components to support efficient engineering operations.
Assist with moving, positioning, and staging materials using approved material-handling equipment.
Operate forklifts and overhead cranes when required after completing company-approved training and certification.
Prioritize assigned engineering projects and manage time effectively to meet established deadlines.
Communicate project progress, technical concerns, material needs, and scheduling requirements to the Engineering Manager.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, including engineering workspaces and fabrication areas.
Follow all company safety policies and procedures, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).Support new product introductions, manufacturing process changes, and equipment improvement projects as assigned.
Maintain consistent attendance, professionalism, accountability, and commitment to safety and quality.
Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training in welding, fabrication, machining, engineering technology, or a related field preferred.
Previous experience in metal fabrication, welding, manufacturing, or a technical engineering support role.
MIG welding ability and knowledge of basic welding techniques and fabrication procedures.
Ability to read and interpret two-dimensional engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications.
Ability to visualize three-dimensional components and assemblies from two-dimensional drawings.
Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of basic manufacturing and fabrication processes.
Experience using common hand tools, power tools, welding equipment, and basic shop machinery.
Ability to measure, fit, align, and assemble metal components accurately.
Familiarity with precision measuring tools and basic dimensional inspection procedures.
Strong technical troubleshooting, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work on custom, one-off engineering and fabrication projects rather than only repetitive production assignments.
Ability to manage assigned projects, prioritize tasks, and work independently with minimal supervision.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate, high-quality work.
Willingness and ability to complete company-required forklift and overhead crane training and certification.
Ability to follow engineering instructions, safety procedures, and technical documentation accurately.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Maintenance personnel.
Ability to adapt to changing project requirements, production priorities, and technical challenges.
Knowledge of workplace safety procedures, welding safety, and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).Physical ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, climb, and perform fabrication activities throughout the work shift.
Ability to lift up to 100 lbs.
Strong work ethic, self-motivation, reliability, and commitment to continuous improvement.
Preferred Qualifications:
Associate degree or technical certification in Engineering Technology, Welding Technology, Mechanical Technology, or a related field.
Experience working in a metal fabrication or industrial manufacturing environment.
Advanced MIG welding experience and familiarity with multiple welding positions and joint configurations.
Experience fabricating custom fixtures, jigs, tooling, prototypes, or specialized manufacturing components.
Familiarity with machining, drilling, cutting, grinding, and other fabrication processes.
Experience using computer-aided design (CAD) software or reviewing CAD-generated engineering drawings.
Knowledge of manufacturing equipment, automation, robotic welding, and production tooling.
Previous forklift or overhead crane operating experience and applicable certifications.
Familiarity with engineering testing, equipment installation, and manufacturing process development.
Experience supporting Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, and production efficiency initiatives.
Key Skills:
Strong mechanical aptitude, MIG welding ability, blueprint interpretation, and hands-on fabrication skills are essential for supporting engineering projects and manufacturing improvements. The ability to interpret two-dimensional drawings, visualize three-dimensional assemblies, and accurately fabricate custom components ensures engineering solutions meet functional and quality requirements. Proficiency with hand tools, welding equipment, measuring instruments, and basic shop machinery supports efficient project execution and technical troubleshooting. Strong problem-solving, time management, and organizational skills allow the Engineering Technician to manage custom projects, adapt to changing priorities, and work effectively with minimal supervision. Communication and teamwork support collaboration with Engineering, Production, Quality, and Maintenance personnel. These skills contribute to improved manufacturing processes, reliable tooling, increased production efficiency, and the continued success of Southern Fabricators. Additional NoteThis position is not limited to the duties listed above. The Engineering Manager may assign additional responsibilities as needed to support engineering projects, custom fabrication, equipment improvements, manufacturing operations, and organizational requirements.
