Takes raw materials, commonly metals, and transforms them into finished components or products by cutting, forming, bending, and assembling them according to blueprints and design specifications. They use various hand and power tools, and sometimes heavy equipment like flame cutters and shears, to build structures, machinery, and other items for industries such as construction and manufacturing.  

Key responsibilities of a fabricator:

• Reading and interpreting blueprints: to understand project designs and specifications. 
• Selecting and preparing materials, often metals, for the fabrication process. 
• Cutting, shearing, and shaping: raw materials into the required pieces and forms. 
• Assembling: components using techniques like welding, bending, and forming. 
• Operating hand and power tools, including drills, shears, and welding torches. 
• Using heavy machinery: such as flame cutters, rollers, and brake presses. 
• Treating metal, which may involve processes to harden, strengthen, or apply protective coatings. 
• Conducting quality checks: to ensure that the finished components meet design standards and project requirements. 
• Adhering to safety regulations: and using safety equipment like gloves and safety glasses to protect themselves during their work. 

Common specializations:

• Metal/Steel Fabricator: Focuses specifically on working with steel and other metals. 
• Shipfitter: A specialized metal fabricator who works on shipbuilding. 
• Sheet Metal Fabricator: Creates products from thin sheets of metal. 
• Structural Fitter: Works on larger, load-bearing metal structures. 
• Tool and Die Maker: Crafts tools and dies used in manufacturing processes.