Fabrication Lead

Fabrication Lead MERGE Event Group Alachua, FL Job Details Full-time $25 - $30 an hour 3 days ago Benefits Paid time off Qualifications AutoCAD Power tools for woodworking Electrical work Project management Electrical experience Attention to detail Organizational skills Welding Research & development Woodworking Full Job Description About MERGE Event Group MERGE Event Group creates transformative event experiences where moments and artistry collide. We design, produce, and execute corporate events, higher education events, nonprofit galas, social events, weddings, and custom event installations throughout Gainesville, Ocala, and the surrounding North Florida area. We are looking for a hands-on, highly capable Fabrication Lead who can help bring creative ideas to life through custom builds, prototypes, scenic elements, displays, and event fabrication projects. Role Snapshot As the Fabrication Lead at MERGE Event Group, you help turn creative concepts, rough design direction, and partially developed ideas into functional, refined, and event-ready fabrication projects. This role is ideal for a highly capable, hands-on fabricator who enjoys problem-solving, working with a variety of materials and tools, and taking projects from prototype through completion. You will work closely with leadership during the design, brainstorming, and research and development (R D) phase, then take ownership of fabrication, organization, documentation, and project progression. The ideal candidate is both skilled and organized. This person can build efficiently, solve practical problems, keep multiple projects moving, and communicate progress clearly without needing constant direction. Core Responsibilities Fabrication & Build Execution Interpret sketches, concepts, mockups, and partially developed designs Independently fabricate parts, assemblies, fixtures, prototypes, and custom event pieces Select appropriate materials, hardware, and fabrication methods based on project needs Operate and maintain fabrication equipment, shop tools, and workspaces with care and safety Solve fabrication challenges with practical, efficient, and creative solutions Assist with prototype iteration, product improvement, and build refinement Maintain a high standard of craftsmanship, quality, and clean execution Design & Development Support Collaborate with leadership during early-stage R D, brainstorming, and concept development Contribute fabrication knowledge to help improve designs and execution plans Recommend materials, finishes, tolerances, hardware, and fabrication processes Create or modify basic shop drawings, layouts, or CAD files as needed Help bridge the gap between creative concept and production-ready execution Identify potential build challenges early and communicate practical solutions Project Ownership & Organization Maintain an active project and job tracking system for fabrication work Communicate project progress clearly and proactively to leadership and relevant team members Organize materials, tools, workspaces, and workflow to support efficient fabrication Keep fabrication projects moving forward with minimal supervision Balance multiple projects and timelines while maintaining quality and attention to detail Document key details, materials, measurements, and project status as needed Flag unclear, blocked, missing, or at-risk items before they become urgent issues Shop, Tools & Workflow Support Maintain a clean, safe, and organized fabrication workspace Help ensure tools and equipment are properly stored, maintained, and ready for use Support efficient shop workflow by organizing project materials and active builds Communicate tool, material, or supply needs in a timely manner Reinforce MERGE's standards for quality, pace, safety, and excellence in the fabrication space Ideal Skills & ExperienceTechnical Skills Strong hands-on fabrication experience Comfortable working with wood, plastics, metal, composites, and mixed materials Experience using shop tools, fabrication equipment, and common build techniques Ability to read drawings, measurements, dimensions, and build details accurately Strong mechanical aptitude and practical problem-solving ability Ability to work independently from rough direction while still collaborating well with others Bonus Skills CAD experience, such as Fusion 360, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar programs Welding and metalworking experience Electrical or mechanical assembly experience Prototype or product development experience Small-scale production workflow experience Experience building custom pieces for events, displays, scenic elements, or installations Ideal Personality Fit The ideal candidate for this role is someone who: Takes ownership of projects and can move work forward without constant direction Is organized, process-oriented, and keeps project progress visible Communicates clearly, proactively, and professionally Enjoys solving problems, improving designs, and balancing creativity with practicality Takes pride in craftsmanship, quality, and clean execution Brings a solutions-focused attitude and reflects MERGE's values of innovation, humility, ownership, positivity, and excellence What Success Looks Like in This Role Success in this role is demonstrated when: Fabrication projects move from concept to completion efficiently Leadership can hand off fabrication work with confidence Project progress is organized, visible, and clearly communicated Fabrication quality is high with minimal rework R D ideas are translated into practical solutions quickly Materials, tools, and workspaces are organized and ready for efficient work Build challenges are identified early and solved with practical solutions Custom fabrication projects help elevate client events and create memorable guest experiences The Fabrication Team is better equipped to execute projects with clarity, quality, and excellence Schedule & Availability This role requires regular weekday availability for fabrication, shop work, project preparation, and production support. Occasional evenings, early mornings, weekends, and onsite event work may be required during heavy event seasons or based on event schedules.

Pay:

$25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

Paid time off Application Question(s): Do you have experience working with power tools to build fixtures and/or furnishings with wood, plastic, acrylic, and/or other mixed materials?

Work Location:

In person