Lead Sheet Metal Technician

About the role

ITAC serves Process & Industrial clients with integrated engineering and construction services for complex capital projects, offering specialty services including power systems services and products, custom machine fabrication, and fall protection services and equipment. Founded in 1988 on a dream and a $5K loan, ITAC is now an ENR‑Ranked Top Design Firm with a nationwide footprint, over 450 employees operating from six offices in Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, providing Fortune 500 companies with innovative design‑build solutions in power generation & utilities, chemicals, food & beverage, forest products, advanced manufacturing, and minerals & metals. ITAC’s purpose is to make life better, offering employees resources and flexibility for a rewarding career and fulfilling family life. The company is 100% employee‑owned through an ESOP and Direct Stock Ownership, providing a comprehensive benefits package and numerous employee incentives. We are seeking a highly skilled and detail‑oriented Lead Sheet Metal Technician to join our manufacturing team onsite in Chester, VA. This is a full‑time, hourly position requiring a minimum of five years of proven experience in precision sheet metal fabrication.

Responsibilities

• Design & Programming: Utilize standard design software to design sheet metal parts directly for CNC Laser and Plasma systems, ensuring accurate flat patterns and efficient nesting layouts
• Machining & Cutting: Set up, program, and operate CNC Laser and CNC Plasma cutting systems to produce high-quality flat patterns according to technical drawings
• Forming & Bending: Operate both manual and CNC press brakes to bend, shape, and form sheet metal components to exact tolerances and angles
• Welding: Perform MIG/TIG and spot welding on various materials (steel, aluminum, stainless steel) to join structural components and finished assemblies
• Fit-Up & Assembly: Interpret complex blueprints, CAD layouts, and engineering specifications to properly measure, align, and fit-up sheet metal parts. Complete mechanical assembly using fasteners, rivets, and hardware
• Material Handling: Safely operate a forklift to move raw metal sheets, heavy tooling, and completed assemblies throughout the shop floor
• Quality & Compliance: Inspect finished parts using calipers, micrometers, and tape measurers to ensure precise dimensional accuracy. Actively participate in all shop safety protocols, including correct use of PPE and OSHA guidelines

Requirements

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in a precision sheet metal or custom fabrication environment
• Technical Mastery: Proven proficiency setting up and operating CNC Laser/Plasma cutters and CNC/manual press brakes
• Welding Standards: Strong competency in MIG and TIG welding processes across various metal gauges
• Certification: D1.1 and D1.3 recommended or achievable within first 30 days. Forklift, Lull, Rigging and Bridge Crane certification provided upon hire. Candidate will also be required to take a Laser Safety Officer Class
• Blueprint Literacy: Advanced ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, flat-pattern layouts, and welding symbols
• Logistics: Must have reliable, personal transportation to guarantee timely arrival
• Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and handle heavy shop tooling safely

Benefits

• Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• 401k & ESOP
• Life Insurance
• Short & Long-Term Disability
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional Development
• Wellness Program
• Safety Incentive Program
• 24/7 Chaplain Care

Pay

The typical base salary range for this position is between $45,000 - $65,000 based on experience.