Lead Fabrication Technician Huntington , California,

Huntington Beach, California, United States

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Lead Fabrication Technician provides hands‑on and technical leadership across advanced manufacturing projects, including custom test rig builds, structural aircraft modifications, and bespoke R&D hardware. This role combines precision welding, sheet metal fabrication, and machining expertise (aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium) with the ability to mentor technicians, prioritize shop workload, and uphold quality and safety standards. Success requires strong mechanical aptitude, close collaboration with engineers, and comfort adapting processes in a fast‑moving, iterative environment.

Availability for swing shifts is required to support development timelines.

• Lead and mentor a team of fabrication technicians, providing hands‑on training, technique guidance, and quality oversight for welding, sheet metal, and machining work.
• Fabricate vehicle components, structural assemblies, and custom test fixtures using TIG welding, sheet metal techniques, and general metalworking, while setting the standard for weld and build quality.
• Perform and review high-quality welds (horizontal, vertical, and overhead) on aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel for both prototype and production applications.
• Operate the Flow Waterjet and train other technicians on its use.
• Interpret engineering drawings and technical documents, and ensure the team executes builds with minimal supervision and high accuracy.
• Prioritize and assign shop floor work across projects, balancing competing deadlines and coordinating coverage across shifts.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between the fabrication team and engineers, providing actionable Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) feedback and escalating build issues as needed.
• Oversee structural and fluid system assembly, including routing and integration of tubes, brackets, and hardware.
• Own dimensional checks and visual weld inspections, prepare parts for NDT methods such as X-ray and dye penetrant, and ensure the team follows inspection protocols.
• Drive lean manufacturing practices and lead continuous improvement of fabrication processes, tooling, and workflows.
• Maintain and operate manual machines (mills, lathes, grinders) as needed, and ensure proper use and upkeep across the team.
• Take ownership of shop cleanliness, organization, and safety protocols, including enforcing safety standards among team members.

• 8+ years of hands‑on fabrication experience in a fast‑paced prototyping or production environment, including experience leading, mentoring, or training other technicians.
• Proficiency in TIG welding, including work with aluminum, stainless steel, and carbon steel.
• Experience with sheet metal fabrication, structural assembly, and mechanical integration.
• Working knowledge of Flow Waterjet operation.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and coordinate work across a team, and to communicate effectively with engineers, technicians, and leadership.
• Ability to…