Fabricator

Job DetailsJob Location: Richmond Downtown 039 - Richmond, VA 23230Position Type: Full TimeWant a career where you are empowered to make a difference? Want to grow and develop on the job? If so, Binswanger Glass is the place for you! Binswanger Glass has the track record of being an organization where careers are made. Many of our current employees have grown through the ranks and have great careers at Binswanger Glass. Job Overview The Lead Fabricator is responsible for overseeing and participating in the fabrication, assembly, quality control, and production coordination of commercial aluminum storefront, entrance, window, and curtainwall systems. This position requires advanced knowledge of architectural aluminum systems, fabrication methods, glazing requirements, shop equipment, reading construction documents, and production sequencing. The Lead Fabricator serves as the primary shop-level leader for fabrication operations, ensuring that all materials are fabricated accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with approved shop drawings, manufacturer requirements, project specifications, and company quality standards. The role also supports communication between project management, purchasing, shipping, and field installation teams to maintain production schedules and resolve fabrication-related issues. Key Responsibilities Storefront & Curtainwall Fabrication Fabricate commercial aluminum storefront, curtainwall, entrance, and window systems in accordance with approved shop drawings, engineering requirements, and manufacturer fabrication manuals. Interpret architectural drawings, fabrication drawings, elevations, details, and cut sheets to determine fabrication requirements and assembly methods. Perform precision measuring, cutting, machining, drilling, routing, notching, and assembly of aluminum framing components. Fabricate pressure plates, snap covers, sill flashings, brake metal, reinforcing members, anchors, and related system components. Assemble doors, frames, curtainwall units, and pre-glazed assemblies as required. Verify proper fabrication tolerances, hole locations, joinery alignment, and system dimensions prior to shipment. Ensure thermal breaks, gaskets, sealants, setting blocks, isolators, and other system components are installed properly where applicable. Coordinate fabrication sequencing to support field installation schedules and project priorities. Shop Leadership & Production Coordination Lead daily shop fabrication activities and assist in assigning work tasks to fabrication personnel. Monitor shop productivity, workflow efficiency, and fabrication quality to ensure schedules are maintained. Coordinate with project managers regarding priorities, material shortages, fabrication clarifications, and schedule impacts. Review fabrication packages for completeness and identify discrepancies, missing information, or constructability concerns prior to production. Assist in planning fabrication sequencing to minimize remakes, shipping delays, and field disruptions. Train and mentor fabricators and apprentices on fabrication techniques, system requirements, safety procedures, and shop standards. Promote accountability, organization, and workmanship throughout the fabrication department. Quality Control Inspect fabricated components and assemblies to ensure compliance with approved shop drawings, specifications, and manufacturer requirements. Verify dimensions, fabrication accuracy, hardware preparation, drainage requirements, and overall assembly quality. Identify and resolve fabrication defects, damaged material, or nonconforming work prior to shipment. Maintain fabrication quality standards for critical performance requirements including water management, structural integrity, thermal performance, and system alignment. Coordinate corrective actions and remake requirements when fabrication issues are identified. Material Handling & Inventory Coordination Safely handle, move, store, and stage aluminum materials, glass, hardware, and fabricated assemblies to prevent damage. Coordinate with purchasing and warehouse personnel regarding inventory shortages, damaged material, and material tracking. Verify incoming material against fabrication requirements and report discrepancies promptly. Ensure fabricated material is properly labeled, organized, packaged, and prepared for shipment to job sites. Equipment Operation & Maintenance Operate fabrication equipment including: double miter saws punch presses routers end mills drill presses crimping machines CNC fabrication equipment glass handling equipment Maintain fabrication equipment in proper working condition and report maintenance or repair needs. Ensure tooling, blades, fixtures, and measuring equipment are properly maintained and calibrated. Safety & Compliance Enforce shop safety procedures and maintain compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety standards. Ensure proper use of PPE including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and fall protection where required. Promote safe material handling practices for aluminum, glass, and heavy assemblies. Maintain clean, organized, and hazard-free fabrication areas. Follow manufacturer fabrication requirements and applicable industry standards including American Architectural Manufacturers Association guidelines and project specifications. Collaboration & Communication Work closely with project managers, detailers, purchasing personnel, warehouse staff, and field installation crews to support successful project execution. Communicate fabrication progress, production concerns, and schedule impacts proactively. Assist field personnel with fabrication clarifications, replacement parts, and field modification support when necessary. Participate in production meetings and workflow planning discussions. Qualifications  Qualifications Extensive experience fabricating commercial storefront, curtainwall, entrances, and architectural aluminum systems. Strong ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, shop drawings, and fabrication details. Knowledge of commercial glazing systems, hardware, sealants, and fabrication standards. Experience with major storefront and curtainwall systems such as Kawneer, YKK AP, Tubelite, or similar systems preferred. Proficiency operating fabrication machinery and precision measuring tools. Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Ability to manage multiple fabrication priorities in a fast-paced production environment. Understanding of commercial construction schedules and installation sequencing. Forklift and overhead crane experience preferred. Physical Requirements Ability to lift and move heavy materials and fabricated assemblies. Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive fabrication tasks. Ability to work safely around fabrication machinery, glass, and construction materials. Comfortable working in a manufacturing/shop environment with varying temperatures and noise levels.   Binswanger Glass offers clients glass and glazier solutions that will help restore, transform and increase the beauty of their home or commercial property. We use our 150 years of experience in the industry to provide proficient project management, expert installation, and productive teamwork to assist clients with their needs. Originally founded in 1872, Binswanger Glass is headquartered in Memphis, TN and is the largest retailer and installer of Architectural Glass and aluminum products within the construction and residential markets in the United States. Best in Glass Benefits Binswanger Glass offers a comprehensive benefits package for all full-time employees: Industry-leading Compensation Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Plans 401K with employer match 100% Company-paid Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance Supplemental Life Insurance and additional Voluntary Benefits Personal Health Advocate Employee Assistance Program Tuition Reimbursement Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) including 9 annual holidays Daily Pay   EEO/AA Employer/F/M/disabled/veterans #INDBG