Fabricator / Prototype Specialist
G&W Display Fixtures, Inc. – Bronson, MI
Job Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Day Shift, Monday–Friday | 40+ hours per week | Overtime as needed
Pay: $20.00–$28.00 per hour, based on experience
Reports To: Production Manager
About G&W Display Fixtures
G&W Display Fixtures is a custom manufacturing company specializing in retail fixtures, casework, prototype development, and production solutions for national retail clients. We are seeking a highly skilled Fabricator / Prototype Specialist to support custom fabrication, prototype development, tooling improvements, equipment modifications, and manufacturing innovation throughout our facility.
This is not a repetitive production welding position. This role is ideal for a mechanically gifted individual who enjoys solving problems, building custom solutions, and working on a wide variety of fabrication and prototype projects.
Position Summary
The Fabricator / Prototype Specialist supports Engineering, Production, Maintenance, Product Development, and Operations through hands-on fabrication, welding, tooling, fixture building, prototype construction, and equipment modification.
The ideal candidate is resourceful, mechanically inclined, safety-conscious, and capable of turning concepts, drawings, or production challenges into practical manufacturing solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Fabricate custom metal components, fixtures, jigs, tooling, carts, racks, and prototype assemblies
- Perform MIG and TIG welding on steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
- Build, repair, and modify manufacturing tooling, fixtures, and production aids
- Assist with prototype development for retail displays, furniture systems, and manufacturing concepts
- Brake Press Operations for forming parts to print. This includes die selection, quality check, and prototyping
- Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, CAD drawings, and shop prints
- Perform layout, fitting, cutting, grinding, drilling, machining, and assembly operations
- Troubleshoot manufacturing and fabrication challenges
- Modify equipment and tooling to improve safety, quality, ergonomics, and efficiency
- Support Engineering and Product Development with prototype construction and testing
- Operate fabrication equipment including welders, saws, grinders, brake presses, presses, drill presses, ironworkers, and hand tools
- Assist with fabrication of weld fixtures, machine guarding, specialty tables, carts, and custom support equipment
- Maintain organized work areas aligned with 5S standards
- Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and company policies
- Support facility improvement projects and continuous improvement initiatives
- Perform all other duties as assigned to support company objectives and operational effectiveness
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of fabrication, welding, tooling, machining, or custom manufacturing experience
- Strong welding and metal fabrication skills
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
- Experience using precision measuring equipment
- Ability to independently manage fabrication projects
- Experience safely operating fabrication and shop equipment
- Ability to work with minimal supervision
- Strong craftsmanship and attention to detail
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding work
Preferred Qualifications
- Tool & die experience
- Prototype development experience
- Experience in custom manufacturing or retail fixture manufacturing
- Basic machining experience including mills and lathes
- Experience working with hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical systems
- Familiarity with Autodesk Inventor or other CAD software
- Experience building weld fixtures and production tooling
- Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification
What We’re Looking For
The ideal candidate demonstrates:
- High mechanical intelligence
- Creativity and problem-solving ability
- Strong initiative and self-motivation
- Pride in workmanship
- Adaptability in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to manage shifting priorities and timelines
Work Environment
This position operates within an active manufacturing environment involving:
- Welding operations
- Metal fabrication equipment
- Forklift traffic
- Noise exposure
- Dust, sparks, and airborne particles
- Heavy materials and physically demanding work
Appropriate PPE is required at all times.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly compensation
- Overtime opportunities
- 401(k) with Safe Harbor company match
- Health, dental, vision, life, and supplemental insurance options
- Section 125 Cafeteria Plan
- Paid holidays
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Stable, team-oriented manufacturing environment
- Opportunity to contribute to custom fabrication, innovation, and process improvement
Why This Role Matters
This position plays a critical role in helping G&W move ideas from concept to production quickly and effectively. The Fabricator / Prototype Specialist becomes a key technical resource supporting innovation, troubleshooting, operational improvements, and manufacturing flexibility across the organization.
If you enjoy solving complex fabrication challenges, building custom solutions, and working in a hands-on manufacturing environment where no two days are the same, we encourage you to apply.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
Shift:
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Application Question(s):
- What certifications do you have pertaining to welding?
Work Location: In person
