Prototype Shop Lead - Marine Product Development & Testing

Winnebago Industries, Inc.; Sarasota (FL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Chris-Craft in Sarasota, FL is seeking a hands-on Prototype Supervisor to lead the prototype shop, oversee building, testing, and refinement of new boat models, and drive manufacturing improvements.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in prototype development or manufacturing, strong FRP/composite process knowledge, and proven team leadership. Local candidates preferred; NMMA/ABYC certifications are a plus.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of prototype development or manufacturing experience (boat/marine preferred).
• Strong knowledge of FRP and composite processes (vacuum infusion, LRTM, open mold layup).
• Experience leading teams in manufacturing or production.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet timelines.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Hands-on mindset to fabricate, test, troubleshoot, and validate concepts.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a skilled prototype team with a culture of safety and continuous improvement.
• Supervise prototype builds, first-article fabrication, and assembly activities supporting new product development.
• Drive innovation by troubleshooting builds and improving methods, tooling, and processes.
• Support testing/evaluation of prototype boats, document findings, and recommend product improvements.
• Collaborate with engineering to improve manufacturability and accelerate launches.
• Train production teams and ensure smooth transitions from prototype to full-scale manufacturing.
• Manage priorities, metrics, inventory, and project timelines for successful execution.

Skills

FRP manufacturing

Composite processes

Team leadership

Project prioritization

Communication

Hands-on fabrication

Education

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business/Management/Engineering

Tools

NMMA certification

ABYC certification

Job description

Chris-Craft in Sarasota, FL is seeking a hands-on Prototype Supervisor to lead the prototype shop, oversee building, testing, and refinement of new boat models, and drive manufacturing improvements.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in prototype development or manufacturing, strong FRP/composite process knowledge, and proven team leadership. Local candidates preferred; NMMA/ABYC certifications are a plus.