Piping Fabrication Superintendent Leader

Company Overview

Upchurch is a rapidly growing, full-service building engineering company providing mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services across the southeastern United States. Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Horn Lake, MS, Upchurch has grown through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, establishing a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and service excellence. We offer end-to-end solutions—from design and installation to ongoing maintenance and emergency support—helping clients maximize building performance, energy efficiency, and equipment lifespan.

Position Summary

The Piping Fabrication Superintendent leads day‑to‑day operations of the fabrication shop to safely produce code‑compliant spools, skids, and assemblies for industrial/commercial projects. This role oversees planning, staffing, material flow, QA/QC, and schedule adherence. The Superintendent partners with Project Managers, Field Superintendents, Engineering/VDC, Procurement, and QA to ensure the right components are fabricated correctly, documented, and delivered to the site on time.

Key Responsibilities

• Safety Leadership

  • Own shop safety performance; conduct JHAs, toolbox talks, and incident reviews; enforce LOTO, hot work, confined space, rigging, and welding safety.

  • Ensure housekeeping (5S), machine guarding, and PPE compliance; coordinate with Safety for audits and corrective actions.

• Planning & Scheduling

  • Convert project work packages and isometric drawings into weekly fabrication plans; level labor across shifts; prioritize critical path work.

  • Coordinate with VDC/Engineering for spool releases, weld maps, and RFIs; manage drawing revisions and change‑outs.

  • Sequence cutting, fit‑up, welding, NDE, hydro/pneumatic testing, paint/coating, and shipping.

• Production Management

  • Lead fitters, welders, and shop hands; assign work, set daily targets, and remove constraints.

  • Verify dimensions, material heat numbers, joint design, and weld symbols prior to fit‑up; ensure fixtures/jigs are used to maintain repeatability.

  • Approve traveler packets, weld maps, and sign‑offs at each step; escalate non‑conformances.

• Quality Assurance / Code Compliance

  • Ensure compliance with ASME B31.1/B31.3, AWS D1.1, and project specifications; enforce WPS/PQR usage and welder continuity.

  • Coordinate NDE (VT, PT, MT, RT, UT) and pressure tests; document results and handle repairs per approved procedures.

  • Maintain traveler documentation, MTRs/CMTRs, heat number traceability, and turnover packages.

• Material Control & Logistics

  • Validate take‑offs and cut lists; coordinate with Purchasing for pipe, fittings, valves, and consumables; manage receiving and FIFO inventory.

  • Control issuance of materials to spools; minimize scrap; track remnants; manage rental equipment and calibration of gauges.

• Team Leadership & Development

  • Recruit, onboard, and evaluate shop personnel; schedule training (welding certs, rigging, forklift, overhead crane).

  • Conduct craft skills assessments; implement cross‑training and performance coaching; administer discipline fairly.

• Cost & Reporting

  • Track labor hours by work order/spool; monitor productivity, rework, and consumable usage; support monthly forecasts.

  • Publish daily/weekly reports: plan vs. actual, upcoming releases, hold points, NDE backlog, and shipping schedule.

• Stakeholder Communication

  • Interface with PMs/Field to align shop output with site needs; support install sequencing and just‑in‑time deliveries.

  • Lead shop readiness meetings; communicate risks and recovery plans.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience: 7+ years in piping fabrication, with 3+ years in a lead/supervisory role (shop superintendent, general foreman, or equivalent).

• Technical: Strong knowledge of pipe materials (CS/SS/Alloy), flange ratings, valve types, and welding processes (SMAW/GTAW/GMAW/FCAW/SAW).

• Codes/Standards: Working knowledge of ASME B31.1/B31.3, ASME Section IX, AWS D1.1, and project QC specifications.

• Tools/Systems: Ability to read isos, P&IDs, GA drawings; proficient with MS Office/Google Suite; exposure to ERP/MES (e.g., Vista/Sage/Procore/STRUMIS/Prodsmart) a plus.

• Certifications (Preferred): CWI/CWE or equivalent QA background; OSHA‑30; Rigging/Signalperson; Forklift/Overhead Crane.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience coordinating NDE/testing vendors and dispositioning NCRs and RFRs.

• Background in hydronic/steam/industrial process systems; skid package fabrication.

• Knowledge of paint/coating systems, PWHT, and positive material identification (PMI).

Core Competencies

• Safety First Mindset

• Planning & Prioritization

• Technical Rigor / Attention to Detail

• Communication & Collaboration

• Coaching & Talent Development

• Problem Solving / Root Cause

• Results & Accountability

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Stand/walk for extended periods; climb ladders; bend/kneel; lift up to 50–75 lbs with assistance as needed.

• Work around welding arcs, grinders, fumes, and noise; utilize PPE; occasional outdoor exposure during loading/shipping.

• After‑hours or weekend work may be required to meet deadlines.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Paid time off and holiday pay.

• Opportunities for professional development and certification assistance.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Upchurch Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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