Awning & Shade Fabrication Technician Full Time NEW

Department: Awning/Shade

Reports To: Installation Supervisor

Employment Type: Full-Time

Schedule: Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: Off (Overtime as needed)

Work Setting: On-Site (shop-based)

Location: Canvas Craft, Inc. — Otsego, MN

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a detail-oriented Awning & Shade Fabrication Technician to join our team. In this role, your primary focus is bench-work — ensuring that every custom shade, canopy, and awning is built to exact specifications so the installation team can execute a flawless fit on-site. While you may occasionally assist with complex fit ups in the field, your domain is the shop. You are the backbone of the production process, turning raw materials into ready-to-mount architectural features.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Fabrication & Sewing

• Fabric Layout: Accurately measure and cut large-scale fabric panels based on project work orders, ensuring minimal waste and pattern alignment.
• Finishing Work: Install grommets, zippers, valances, and beading (keder) required for different mounting systems.
• Framework Prep: Assist in the assembly of aluminum or steel frames and staple-in fabric covers to ensure a drum-tight finish.
• Industrial Sewing: Operate heavy-duty machines to hem, join, and reinforce acrylic and vinyl fabrics.

Installation Support

• Pre-Flight Check: Test all finished products in the shop to ensure moving parts function correctly before they leave for the job site.
• Kit Preparation: Organize and pack all necessary hardware, brackets, and specialized fasteners for the install team to prevent delays in the field.
• Occasional Field Support: Assist the installation crew on high-complexity projects or provide shop-eye expertise during difficult site measurements.

Additional

• Additional duties may be assigned as needed to support business operations.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience: 1 year of sewing/fabric experience preferred
• Preferred: Experience with industrial fabrics (Sunbrella, PVC, etc.) and heavy-duty sewing machinery.
• Technical Skills: Ability to read shop drawings and translate 2D measurements into 3D structures; proficiency with fabric welders, grommet presses, and basic hand tools.
• Soft Skills: Detail obsession and a measure-twice-cut-once mindset; collaboration with Install supervisor; commitment to precision and quality.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift/handle up to 50 pounds
• Capable of handling large, heavy bolts of fabric and maneuvering finished frames within the shop.
• Standing for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Repetitive motion including hand/wrist use, reaching, and bending.
• Exposure to indoor shop environment including noise, heat, and dust as applicable.

The physical demands described above are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this role with or without reasonable accommodation. Canvas Craft provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and for pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, and related medical conditions in accordance with applicable law.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position is shop-based at Canvas Craft’s Otsego, MN facility, offering consistent hours with minimal travel. You will work closely with the Install supervisor in a dedicated workspace with high-quality tools. All team members are required to always follow Canvas Craft safety policies and procedures and use required personal protective equipment.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING

All candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment will be subject to a background check conducted through Yardstik. Canvas Craft conducts background screening in compliance with the Minnesota Human Rights Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and all applicable state and local law. A conditional offer may be withdrawn only following an individualized assessment, as required by Minnesota law.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Hourly wage: $23.00–$28.00 based on experience and qualifications.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) — Per Canvas Craft employee handbook based on tenure.
• Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) provided in accordance with Minnesota law.
• Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave benefits available beginning January 1, 2026
• Holiday pay — Six paid holidays per year
• Healthcare – Health benefits are offered after 90 days. Employee pays 25%, employer 75%. Family coverage at 100% by employee.
• Dental coverage — Dental coverage offered after 90 days.
• Retirement plan with company match — Eligibility after 1000 hours of employment and at plan enrollment windows.
• Training and advancement opportunities

EMPLOYMENT STATUS

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work for this role. It is not an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications, and is not an employment contract. Employment with Canvas Craft, Inc. is at will and may be terminated by either party at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable law.

ABOUT CANVAS CRAFT

At Canvas Craft, we manufacture innovative fabric and metal solutions serving the marine, industrial, and awning/shade markets. Our team combines engineering expertise, advanced manufacturing processes, and practical design to deliver durable, high-performance products tailored to customer needs.

OUR CORE VALUES

• Prudence — Use company resources responsibly, including materials, equipment, time, and facilities.
• Positive “Can-Do” Attitude — Approach work with enthusiasm, professionalism, and a willingness to help others.
• Teamwork & Collaboration — Work cooperatively to solve problems and support fellow team members.
• Resilience & Continuous Improvement — Embrace change, adapt quickly, and continually seek ways to improve processes and performance.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Canvas Craft, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or veteran status, in accordance with applicable federal law and the Minnesota Human Rights Act (Minn. Stat. § 363A.08).

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the hiring process should contact Denise Bornhausen, Office and Finance Manager, [email protected]

Pay: $23.00 – $28.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person