Production Manager (Fabrication & Welding Operations)

Location: Nisku, AB
Company: Reliable Welding

Role Summary

This role is responsible for the end-to-end execution of fabrication and welding projects from blueprint interpretation through shop coordination, team leadership, and delivery. The Production Manager ensures projects are completed safely, efficiently, and to spec while maintaining workflow continuity across the shop and yard.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring both technical welding knowledge and operational control. The ideal candidate does not just “run jobs” they build structure, improve processes, and introduce systems that increase output, visibility, and accountability.

Core Responsibilities

1. Project Execution & Planning

• Interpret and review technical drawings, blueprints, and fabrication requirements
• Translate project scope into clear shop instructions and production timelines
• Identify risks, material requirements, and sequencing before work begins
• Support or contribute to project quoting and feasibility assessments

2. Shop & Yard Operations

• Oversee daily operations of the welding shop and yard
• Allocate labour, equipment, and materials across active jobs
• Maintain workflow efficiency and minimize downtime, bottlenecks, and rework
• Ensure all work meets quality standards and project specifications

3. Team Leadership & Supervision

• Lead, direct, and support welders and fabrication staff
• Provide clear guidance throughout each stage of production
• Hold team members accountable to timelines, quality, and safety expectations
• Act as the central point of coordination between shop personnel and leadership

4. Client & Stakeholder Coordination

• Communicate with customers throughout the project lifecycle
• Provide updates on progress, timelines, and changes
• Resolve issues proactively to maintain trust and delivery expectations

5. Operational Systems & Process Improvement

• Implement and maintain systems for tracking jobs, materials, and progress
• Utilize digital tools (spreadsheets, shared documents, project management platforms) to improve visibility and control
• Identify inefficiencies and introduce structured workflows to improve performance
• Move the operation away from “tribal knowledge” toward documented, repeatable processes

Required Qualifications

• Strong background in welding and fabrication operations
• Proven experience leading teams in a shop or industrial environment
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making under pressure