Fabrication Team Lead

The Opportunity
Metalworld is a well-established fabrication business delivering high-quality, bespoke metal solutions across both public and private sectors. With a strong reputation for innovation and continuous improvement, they are now seeking a Fabrication Team Lead to take ownership of workshop performance and delivery.

This is a predominantly leadership and management role, with an approximate 80/20 split:

• 80% leadership, planning, quality assurance and performance management
• 20% hands-on support with welding, fabrication and assembly as required

You’ll lead a team of six to eight while remaining hands-on in delivering high-quality fabrication outcomes.

Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Performance

• Lead, coach and develop a high-performing fabrication team
• Drive accountability, productivity, and continuous improvement
• Monitor team output and report on productivity and KPIs
• Plan and allocate daily work across fabrication staff and apprentices

Hands-on Fabrication

• Perform MIG & TIG welding across a variety of projects
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
• Support complex fabrication, layout, and assembly work
• Identify and implement productivity and workflow improvements

Quality & Safety

• Ensure all work meets engineering specifications and QA standards
• Conduct weld inspections and minimise rework and defects
• Lead a strong H&S culture, ensuring full compliance across the team
• Support ISO-aligned quality processes and continuous improvement

What You’ll Bring

• 10+ years’ experience in sheet metal fabrication (steel and aluminium)
• A relevant trade qualification (Level 4 or higher preferred)
• Strong experience leading teams in a workshop environment
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings confidently
• Solid understanding of fabrication processes, machinery, and workflows
• Experience using ERP systems and workshop reporting tools (or similar)

What Sets You Apart

• A natural leader who enjoys coaching and developing others
• Highly organised with strong planning and time management skills
• Practical, solutions-focused, and calm under pressure
• Strong communicator who builds credibility with their team
• Committed to safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Why Metalworld?

• Well-regarded, locally owned fabrication business
• Diverse, interesting project work across multiple sectors
• Supportive team culture with a focus on respect, safety, and innovation
• Opportunity to shape team performance and workshop standards
• Stable, permanent full-time role in Sydenham, Christchurch

Apply Now
If you’re ready to step into a role that blends leadership with hands-on technical delivery, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now or contact Rob Malpass on [021 225 3899](tel:021 225 3899) for a confidential conversation.

To be considered for this role you need to have either New Zealand citizenship or residency.