Fabrication Shop Manager/Builder

J About NSTY Fab Co NSTY Fab Co is a rapidly growing custom fabrication and performance shop based in Long Beach, California, specializing in high-end custom truck builds, suspension fabrication, chassis modifications, and complete vehicle transformations. Our work ranges from street trucks and show builds to prerunner and off-road fabrication. We handle everything from custom suspension systems, short bed conversions, frame modifications, drivetrain swaps, steering systems, custom chassis work, and one-off fabricated components to full installation of aftermarket performance kits. We are not a production-line shop. Every project is different and requires real problem solving, fabrication knowledge, adaptability, and attention to detail. We're building a company focused on high-quality craftsmanship, efficient operations, strong communication, and continuous growth. This role is one of the most important positions within the company and will directly impact the future growth and scalability of NSTY Fab Co. Position Overview We are looking for a highly capable Fabrication Shop Manager / Lead Builder to oversee daily shop operations, manage fabrication workflow, maintain production efficiency, and help scale NSTY Fab Co into a more streamlined and self-sustaining operation. This is not a basic foreman or service writer role. We need someone who understands how niche custom automotive shops actually function and can successfully manage complex fabrication projects, technicians, deadlines, workflow, budgets, and shop systems simultaneously. The ideal candidate comes from a custom fabrication, off-road, race, restoration, drift, or specialty automotive background and understands the realities of running high-detail custom projects where no two builds are identical.

This role is responsible for:

Keeping projects moving efficiently Maintaining projected deadlines Managing and improving technician performance Optimizing workflow and shop organization Improving operational systems Helping ownership build a more autonomous and scalable business NSTY Fab Co is still a young and rapidly growing shop with massive room for growth, and we are looking for someone who wants to grow alongside the company long-term. Key ResponsibilitiesShop Operations & Workflow Management Oversee all day-to-day fabrication shop operations Coordinate technician workflow and project scheduling Ensure builds remain on track and within projected timelines Maintain organization and operational efficiency throughout the shop Monitor labor hours, productivity, and project progression Prioritize projects and allocate resources efficiently Identify bottlenecks and operational inefficiencies Develop and implement systems to improve workflow and consistency Help establish scalable processes for long-term company growth Ensure projects are completed safely, professionally, and to company standards Team Leadership & Development Lead and manage fabricators, welders, technicians, and support staff Maintain accountability for productivity, quality, and professionalism Train, mentor, and develop team members Help improve overall shop culture, communication, and organization Assist with hiring, onboarding, and evaluating team members Identify weaknesses within the team and help strengthen shop capabilities Create a more self-sufficient and autonomous operating environment Maintain morale while holding high performance standards Fabrication & Technical Oversight Oversee fabrication quality across all active builds Assist with fabrication, troubleshooting, fitment, mock-up, and assembly when necessary Verify work quality, structural integrity, and overall execution Ensure fabrication methods are efficient, repeatable, and safe Help optimize installation procedures and fabrication workflow Projects may include: Custom suspension fabrication Short bed conversions Chassis modifications C-notch and frame reinforcement fabrication Off-road and prerunner systems Steering and drivetrain modifications Custom brackets, mounts, and supports Installation of aftermarket suspension and performance kits Custom sheet metal and structural fabrication Operational Growth & Optimization Help ownership improve overall shop operations and scalability Work within labor budgets and project timelines Improve efficiency without sacrificing quality Assist with shop layout, organization, tooling, and workflow improvements Track productivity and optimize billable labor performance Support inventory management and material planning Help implement systems that improve long-term operational consistency Contribute ideas that improve shop performance, profitability, and scalability QualificationsRequired Experience Proven experience managing or leading within a custom fabrication, automotive performance, restoration, race, drift, off-road, or specialty vehicle shop Strong hands-on fabrication and mechanical experience Deep understanding of custom automotive build processes Experience managing multiple active projects simultaneously Strong leadership and team management abilities Ability to maintain efficiency in fast-paced custom fabrication environments Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills Experience working within labor budgets and project timelines Strong communication and organizational skills Ability to adapt quickly in constantly evolving custom build environments Preferred Skills MIG and/or TIG welding experience Suspension fabrication and chassis setup knowledge Experience with prerunner, drift, race, or off-road vehicle builds Knowledge of fabrication shop workflow optimization Experience scaling teams or improving operational systems Ability to estimate labor and fabrication timelines Familiarity with shop management software or workflow systems Experience maintaining quality control standards in fabrication environments What We're Looking For We're looking for someone who: Takes ownership without requiring constant oversight Can lead a team while maintaining strong shop culture Understands the balance between craftsmanship and efficiency Can keep projects moving while maintaining quality standards Understands the realities of custom automotive fabrication Can help build systems instead of constantly reacting to problems Wants to help scale and grow a serious fabrication company long-term Thrives in high-output, high-detail custom build environments This role is for someone who wants to help build something substantial long-term, not just clock in and out.

Pay:

$25.00 - $40.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person