Position: Fabrication Lead

About PolyGone Systems:

PolyGone is transforming water treatment with the world’s first scalable, affordable solutions for aquatic microplastic removal. Since our founding in 2022, we’ve advanced from lab development to launching the first municipal pilot for microplastic capture, and are now scaling commercial deployment of our PolyPod and PolyCartridge systems. As we grow, we're building out a new assembly facility in Kearny, NJ—and we’re looking for a hands-on, driven Shop Manager to help bring this vision to life.

Role Overview:

We are seeking a full-time Shop Manager & Fabrication Lead to oversee the setup and daily operation of our new industrial assembly space. This role goes beyond managing an existing machine shop—it’s an opportunity to design, build, and run a state-of-the-art fabrication and assembly space for cutting-edge water treatment technology.


You’ll be responsible for sourcing equipment and materials, supervising technicians, managing production timelines, and ensuring high standards for quality and safety. You’ll also work closely with our engineering team to prototype, fabricate, and scale up new systems. This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of a growing operation at the forefront of cleantech manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the setup and outfitting of the new machine and assembly shop

  • Oversee day-to-day operations, including fabrication, assembly, and QC

  • Collaborate with engineers to prototype and scale production of industrial water filtration units

  • Manage inventory of tools, hardware, and components

  • Recruit and supervise fabrication and assembly staff

  • Develop and maintain production schedules and workflow

  • Ensure compliance with safety standards and quality assurance protocols

  • Troubleshoot equipment and fabrication issues as needed

Qualifications:

  • Experience in production planning and shop floor management

  • Proficiency in machining and metal fabrication

  • Strong skills in quality control and inspection

  • Familiarity with CAD software (Autodesk Inventor and/or Fusion 360 preferred)

  • Excellent organizational and communication skills

  • Ability to lead a small team and coordinate cross-functional work

  • Comfortable in a fast-paced, hands-on start-up environment

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, or a related field preferred

  • Previous experience in a manufacturing or machine shop environment required

  • Must be able to work on-site in Kearny, NJ

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working in industrial or water treatment hardware assembly.

  • Background in mechanical engineering or fabrication trades.

Why Join PolyGone?

  • Direct ownership over a new fabrication and assembly space

  • Leadership role in a fast-growing cleantech start-up

  • Access to premier facilities at Kearny Point, just minutes from NYC and Jersey City

  • Competitive salary, benefits, and potential for travel to project sites

  • Work on real-world solutions tackling global microplastic pollution

How to apply:

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need.