Steel Fabrication Facility Setup Consultant (Structural Steel / PEB) - Contract

Job Type

· Contract / consulting engagement (fixed scope with milestones).

· Start: immediate.

· Duration: typically 4 to 8 weeks for the initial setup plan (with optional ongoing advisory after launch).

About the Project

We are launching a steel fabrication business in Dubai/Sharja focused on structural steel and related construction/industrial packages. We are looking for an experienced consultant to define the end-to-end setup plan: product focus, facility sizing and layout, equipment list, staffing, software stack, QA/QC and HSE systems, and a realistic ramp-up roadmap.

What Success Looks Like

· A clear, phased launch plan (Phase 1 minimum viable plant, Phase 2 expansion, Phase 3 automation).

· A facility layout and workflow that reduces handling, rework, and bottlenecks.

· A complete equipment + tooling bill of quantities with specs and recommended brands/categories.

· A staffing plan with roles, headcount, shift plan, and productivity assumptions.

· A practical QA/QC and HSE framework aligned to the UAE market and typical client requirements.

· A financial model tying capex/opex to tonnage, gross margin, and break-even.

Key Responsibilities

· Lead discovery sessions to confirm product mix, target clients, tonnage capacity target, and fabrication vs. erection scope.

· Design material flow and facility layout: receiving, storage, cutting, fit-up, welding, QC, finishing (blasting/painting or outsource), dispatch.

· Define machinery and handling requirements based on thickness range and tonnage: cutting (saw/plasma/oxy/laser), drilling, welding bays, cranes, forklifts, compressors, etc.

· Recommend software workflow: drawing review/markup, estimating, production planning, inventory control, QA documentation, and (if applicable) CNC/CAM integration.

· Prepare staffing plan: management, production, QC, HSE, planning, storekeeping, operators, fitters/welders, paint/dispatch.

· Develop QA/QC deliverables: ITPs, WPS/WPQR direction, welder qualifications plan, traceability, dimensional control, NDT strategy (outsourced or in-house).

· Develop HSE plan: lifting plans, hot works, fire safety, paint/solvent handling (if applicable), training matrix.

Deliverables (Required)

Required Experience

· 10+ years in structural steel fabrication (and/or pre-engineered steel buildings) with hands-on exposure to shop operations.

· Direct experience setting up, expanding, or managing a fabrication facility (layout, equipment selection, staffing, systems).

· Strong understanding of production methods: cutting, drilling, fit-up, welding, dimensional control, finishing, dispatch.

· Ability to build realistic productivity assumptions and cost models (labor hours/ton, consumables, overheads).

· Clear communication and strong documentation skills (client-ready reports, tables, and practical recommendations).

Nice to Have

· UAE/GCC project experience (working with local contractors, inspection expectations, and typical compliance requirements).

· Experience with CNC/CAM workflows and machine integration (drill lines, plasma tables, nesting software).

· Familiarity with Tekla Structures, Advance Steel, Bluebeam/PlanGrid, and fabrication ERP/MRP systems.

· Experience with blasting/painting setup or outsourcing management.

How to Apply

· Send your CV + a brief note describing 2-3 similar facilities/projects you have supported (scope, tonnage, and what you delivered).

· Include your expected fee structure (fixed scope or day rate) and your availability for on-site sessions in Dubai.

· If possible, attach sample deliverables (redacted) such as a layout, equipment list, or ramp-up plan.

Job Types: Part-time, Temporary, Contract