Training Manager@FabLogix

About the role

We are seeking a skilled, hands-on, and mission-driven Training Manager to build and lead a formal Pipe Fitter and Welder Apprenticeship Program from the ground up. This role is critical to the long-term growth and workforce sustainability of our specialty fabrication operations serving the data center and life sciences construction markets.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop a formal apprenticeship curriculum for pipe fitters and welders, encompassing both classroom instruction and hands-on shop training aligned with industry standards (ASME B31.1, B31.3, B31.9, AWS D1.1, AWS D18.1).

• Structure the program into defined learning modules covering pipe layout and measurement, fitting techniques, weld process theory (SMAW, GTAW, FCAW), blueprint reading, material identification, and quality/safety standards.

• Establish a formal competency assessment framework with milestone evaluations, weld qualification testing, and apprentice progression criteria that align with applicable certifications (AWS, NCCER, or equivalent).

• Serve as a primary hands-on instructor in the fabrication shop, demonstrating and teaching pipe fitting layout, tack-up, and assembly techniques alongside apprentices.

• Lead welding instruction for SMAW, GTAW, and applicable flux-core processes; personally demonstrate techniques, coach posture and technique, and evaluate weld samples.

• Conduct or coordinate classroom sessions covering trade theory, code requirements, blueprint reading, safety regulations (OSHA 10/30), and quality documentation practices.

• Research, identify, and pursue state and federal workforce development funding opportunities, including apprenticeship grants, registered apprenticeship program (RAP) incentives, and economic development workforce initiatives applicable to South Carolina.

• Prepare and submit grant applications, maintain required documentation, and manage compliance reporting for any secured funding programs.

• Build and maintain relationships with SC Technical College System, SC Department of Employment and Workforce, and relevant apprenticeship intermediaries to maximize available program support.

• Assess current skill levels of existing pipe fitters and welders through structured evaluations and informal observation on the shop floor.

• Develop and deliver targeted skills upgrade training for journeymen and experienced craft workers, including weld process certification prep, code updates, and advanced fitting techniques.

• Work with production leadership to schedule skills training around project workflow to minimize disruption and maximize shop floor participation.

• Maintain all training records, apprentice progression documentation, weld qualification logs, and attendance records required by any applicable registered apprenticeship program or funding agency.

• Ensure all training activities meet OSHA, company safety policy, and applicable fabrication quality system requirements (including ITP alignment for regulated-market projects).

• Coordinate with HR and operations leadership on apprentice onboarding, timekeeping, wage progression schedules, and program documentation.

• Partner with FabLogix craft recruiter to identify and screen apprenticeship candidates from trade schools, community colleges, workforce development pipelines, and direct applicant pools.

• Conduct structured candidate orientations, set program expectations, and establish a cohort-based onboarding schedule targeting 5 pipe fitter and 5 welder apprentices within the first 12 months of program launch.

• Provide ongoing mentorship and pastoral support to apprentices, tracking attendance, attitude, progress, and retention with early intervention for at-risk participants.

• Track and report key program metrics to company leadership, including apprentice progress, completion rates, skills assessment scores, funding utilization, and ROI on training investment.

• Continuously evaluate and improve the curriculum based on apprentice outcomes, production feedback, and changes to applicable codes, standards, or client quality requirements.

• Champion a culture of craftsmanship, safety, and continuous learning across the fabrication workforce.

Qualifications & Skills

• Journeyman-level or higher qualification as a pipe fitter, pipefitter/welder, or combination tradesperson with demonstrated shop and field experience.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in industrial pipe fabrication, with direct experience fitting and welding to ASME B31.1, B31.3, or equivalent codes.
• Current or ability to obtain active weld certifications (SMAW, GTAW, FCAW); AWS CWI credential preferred or willingness to obtain.
• Prior experience developing or delivering trade training, apprenticeship instruction, or journeyman-level skills coaching in a fabrication or construction environment.
• Working knowledge of state and federal workforce development programs, registered apprenticeship frameworks (DOL-RAP), and grant application processes is strongly preferred.
• Ability to develop structured curriculum content including written lesson plans, hands-on skill exercises, written assessments, and competency checklists.
• Proficient reading isometric drawings, weld maps, bill of materials, and pipe fabrication spool drawings.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to teach effectively to diverse learning styles and experience levels.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and company holidays.