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.
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.
Fabrications Team Leader - Skills & Qualifications:
Essential:
· 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