R&D Fabrication Technician

SMEAL SFA, LLC; Snyder (NE); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Terex Corporation in Snyder, NE is seeking an experienced R&D Fabrication Tech to design, fabricate, and assemble custom material-handling and production-support equipment such as shelving, ladder carts, and body carts to support manufacturing operations.

The role requires reading blueprints, applying welds, measuring precisely, and coordinating with engineering, R&D, and maintenance teams to implement prototypes and improvements while maintaining a safe, clean work environment.

Qualifications

• Fabrication, prototyping, or custom equipment-building experience.
• Ability to read blueprints and engineering drawings.
• Proficient with hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment.
• MIG welding experience; TIG a plus.
• Ability to use measuring tools (tape measure, calipers, squares).
• Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• Occasional snow removal may be required.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate and assemble custom equipment including shelving, ladder carts, body carts, fixtures, and special-purpose tools.
• Read, interpret, and work from blueprints, drawings, sketches, and specifications.
• Collaborate with engineering, R&D, and production teams to develop prototypes and improvements.
• Modify and improve existing equipment based on operational feedback.
• Measure, cut, drill, weld, and assemble materials accurately and safely.
• Test fabricated equipment for functionality, safety, and durability.
• Document changes, measurements, and build details as required.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Assist the maintenance team with repairs, installations, and plant support tasks as needed.
• Support continuous improvement, ergonomics, and efficiency initiatives.

Skills

Fabrication

Blueprint reading

Shop tools

Welding (MIG)

Measuring tools

Problem-solving

Independent work

Snow removal

Job description

Additional Locations: Requisition ID: 26977

Smeal is recognized as a premier manufacturer, inventor, and innovator of custom fire apparatus. The company offers a full line of custom and commercial pumpers, rescue pumpers, aerial ladders, and urban interface vehicles. Smeal is committed to leading the industry in high-quality fire apparatus, delivery times and customer experience. Smeal sells its products worldwide and is based in Snyder, NE.

Smeal Apparatus, along with peer fire apparatus companies such as Spartan ER, are part of Terex Corporation, a global designer and manufacturer of specialized vehicles and equipment, including fire and emergency vehicles, waste and recycling equipment, RV's, and machinery supporting construction, utilities, and infrastructure. With operations across the U.S. and globally, we are committed to safety, innovation, and quality while building products our customers depend on every day.

SUMMARY:

R&D Fabrication Tech performs facility maintenance service, repairs and is responsible for designing, fabricating, and assembling custom material-handling and production-support equipment to support manufacturing operations. This role focuses on building shelving, ladder carts, body carts, and other special or one-off equipment based on blueprints, drawings, and engineering concepts. The technician will also assist the maintenance team as needed to support plant operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabricate and assemble custom equipment including shelving, ladder carts, body carts, fixtures, and special-purpose tools.
• Read, interpret, and work from blueprints, drawings, sketches, and specifications.
• Collaborate with engineering, R&D, and production teams to develop prototypes and improvements.
• Modify and improve existing equipment based on operational feedback.
• Measure, cut, drill, weld, and assemble materials accurately and safely.
• Select appropriate materials and hardware for each project.
• Test fabricated equipment for functionality, safety, and durability.
• Document changes, measurements, and build details as required.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Assist the maintenance team with repairs, installations, and plant support tasks as needed.
• Support continuous improvement, ergonomics, and efficiency initiatives.
• Follow all safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.
• Make and close WO in the CMMS system.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Proven experience in fabrication, prototyping, or custom equipment building.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, and layouts.
• Strong working knowledge of hand tools, power tools, and shop equipment.
• Welding experience (MIG preferred; TIG a plus).
• Ability to use measuring tools accurately (tape measure, calipers, squares).
• Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• At times will need to help with snow removal.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and work on feet for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, and position materials up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work in a fabrication and manufacturing environment.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing and fabrication shop within a production facility.
• Exposure to welding operations, cutting tools, noise, and industrial equipment.
• Work may be performed in hot and cold conditions, including non-climate-controlled areas depending on season and production needs.
• Required use of PPE including safety glasses, gloves, welding protection, and steel-toe footwear.

Performance Expectations

• Quality and accuracy of fabricated equipment.
• Ability to meet project timelines and specifications.
• Safe work practices and compliance with procedures.
• Effective collaboration with R&D, engineering, and maintenance teams.

Preferred Qualifications (Optional)

• Experience working in a manufacturing or vehicle production environment.
• Basic CAD familiarity or ability to work from engineering sketches.
• Forklift, scissor lift, or overhead crane certification.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Terex Corporation is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity. The Company conducts all employment practices without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran's status, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other basis prohibited by law. Terex Corporation also undertakes affirmative action to assure equal employment opportunities for minorities and women, for persons with disabilities, and for protected veterans.

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