Central Shop Manager — Woodworking & Fabrication

Kansas City Art Institute; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 46,000 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

Kansas City Art Institute is seeking a Central Shop Manager to lead the administrative and operational functions of the shop, ensuring safe access to a wide range of tools and equipment for students and faculty.

The role requires advanced knowledge of shop operations, strong leadership and communication skills, and the ability to train staff and students while maintaining safety, accuracy, and efficiency across all shop activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Prior experience in a woodworking and fabrication environment.
• Advanced knowledge and experience in the safe operation, repair, and maintenance of shop equipment and hand tools.

Responsibilities

• Implement university administrative policies and shop procedures.
• Ensure patrons have safe and reliable access to tools and equipment.
• Gather and report data to support the Director in operations and planning.
• Maintain records and ensure documentation is up to date.
• Manage maintenance, repair, and update of shop and studio equipment.
• Identify areas to improve efficiency, space planning, or technology use.
• Train faculty and staff to use facility and teach in facility.
• Ensure safety of students and faculty; inspire confidence and competence.
• Train staff on first aid and emergency protocols; stock first aid stations.
• Assist students and faculty with fabrication issues; guide projects.
• Identify solutions and provide backup operations support during high demand.
• Perform demonstrations and provide training.
• Demonstrate safe operation of shop equipment; comply with OSHA standards.
• Provide high-quality services and timely responses.

Skills

Woodworking knowledge

Metal fabrication

Welding

Foundry and casting

Ceramics

Kiln operations

Fiber arts

Textile production

Machinery maintenance

Shop safety

First aid training

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Job description

Kansas City Art Institute is seeking a Central Shop Manager to lead the administrative and operational functions of the shop, ensuring safe access to a wide range of tools and equipment for students and faculty.

The role requires advanced knowledge of shop operations, strong leadership and communication skills, and the ability to train staff and students while maintaining safety, accuracy, and efficiency across all shop activities.