Sheet Metal Cell (SMC) Lead

About the role

Come work in our climate‑controlled factory in Dane, WI! Ready to take your fabrication skills to the next level while making a difference for people and the planet? Join RenewAire, where innovation meets purpose. The Sheet Metal Cell (SMC) Lead will help build high‑performance Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) systems that bring fresh air to hospitals, schools, and commercial buildings across the country.

Company overview

RenewAire has been innovating energy recovery ventilation for over 40 years, improving indoor air quality while reducing energy costs. Based in Madison, WI, the company holds Green Globes, LEED Gold, and ENERGY STAR certifications and promotes a people‑centric, collaborative, and innovative culture.

Responsibilities

• Participate in and lead the fabrication of parts using fabrication equipment according to current drawings and specifications.
• Adhere to all procedures relating to materials, quality, equipment operation, testing, and company policies.
• Coordinate workflow throughout fabrication cells according to schedule and routings, under the direction of the Fabrication Senior Lead or Fabrication Site Supervisor.
• Assist senior leads, supervisors, and maintenance in resolving machine unplanned downtime and parts production issues, working with CNC programmers as needed.
• Act as a technical expert and leader; coach, train, and support technicians while modeling safe, positive work practices.
• Serve as a communication liaison between technicians and leadership to ensure a cohesive “One Team” culture and seamless information sharing across shifts and facilities.
• Operate fabrication equipment to high‑quality standards and troubleshoot complex machinery issues, engaging external technical support when necessary.
• Lead machine operation during prove‑out processes, communicate results with programmers, and promote open, respectful communication.
• Promote safe work practices and a positive work environment in fabrication.
• Provide expert assistance to the fabrication team, troubleshooting equipment, material handling, and scheduling problems.
• Cross‑train across multiple cells and facilities on various machines and equipment.
• Handle raw metal sheets and finished products with attention to detail.
• Develop and lead updates to equipment setup, tooling change, and process flow documentation.
• Coordinate with maintenance and supervisors during planned and unplanned maintenance.
• Lead efforts to streamline workflows within the facility and across facilities.
• Serve as primary contact for the material team on part transfer and logistics issue resolution.
• Manage cell orders received via ERP or other reports, including error resolution.
• Represent the cell in daily meetings as a backup representative when required.
• Process relevant forms (e.g., PPAF, IMP, Safety Communication) as needed.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned by management.

Requirements

• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Strong troubleshooting, critical‑thinking, and process‑analysis abilities.
• Excellent coordination skills for aligning work across shifts and facilitating flow through cells.
• High school diploma or equivalent; metal‑fabrication coursework a plus.
• 3–5 years of relevant fabrication experience with lasers, punches, panel benders, press brakes, and other automated equipment.
• Intermediate computer skills and ability to read and understand engineering drawings, electrical schematics, and manufacturing instructions.
• Mathematical proficiency for basic arithmetic and reading measurements in inches and feet.
• Physical ability to stand, walk, climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, lift up to 30 lb frequently (up to 50 lb occasionally), and handle raw metal sheets and finished products.
• Vision requirements: close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to make timely, sound decisions, provide feedback, and remain calm under high‑pressure situations.
• Advanced customer‑service skills and ability to develop professional relationships.
• Attention to detail and capacity to maintain high effort during busy periods.
• Commitment to self‑education and closing personal knowledge gaps.

Physical and mental demands

• Regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands for handling.
• Frequent climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Frequent lifting or moving up to 30 lb; occasional lifting or moving up to 50 lb.
• Required vision: close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, focus adjustment.
• Must understand issues, make decisions, and communicate effectively with employees and customers.

Work environment

• Exposure to moving sub‑assembly parts, fumes, or airborne particles.
• Occasional risk of electrical shock.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.