Prototype Supervisor

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

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Sarasota, FL, US

Build the Future of Boating with Chris-Craft

For more than 150 years, Chris-Craft has crafted some of the world's most iconic luxury boats. Today, we continue that tradition of excellence by combining timeless craftsmanship with innovative engineering and advanced manufacturing. We're seeking a hands‑on, results‑driven Prototype Supervisor to lead our prototype team in Sarasota, Florida and play a key role in bringing the next generation of Chris-Craft boats to life.

This is an exciting opportunity for a professional who thrives on driving culture change, enjoys solving complex manufacturing challenges, and wants to lead the development of products that set the standard in the marine industry. You'll work directly with engineering, manufacturing, customer service, and leadership teams to transform concepts into reality while helping shape the future of our product line.

What You’ll Do

As the Prototype Supervisor, you'll lead the prototype shop and oversee the building, testing, and refinement of new boat models and manufacturing processes. Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading and developing a skilled prototype team while fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Supervising prototype builds, first‑article part fabrication, and assembly activities that support new product development.
• Driving innovation by troubleshooting prototype builds and improving manufacturing methods, tooling, and processes.
• Supporting testing and evaluation of prototype boats, documenting findings, and making recommendations for product enhancements.
• Working closely with engineering teams to improve manufacturability and accelerate successful product launches.
• Training production teams and ensuring smooth transitions from prototype development into full‑scale manufacturing.
• Managing priorities, departmental performance metrics, inventory, and project timelines to ensure successful execution.

What We’re Looking For

We're seeking a leader who combines technical expertise with a passion for mentoring others and solving complex challenges. Ideal candidates will have:

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in prototype development or manufacturing environments. Experience in boat building or marine manufacturing preferred.
• Strong knowledge of FRP and composite manufacturing processes, including vacuum infusion, LRTM, and open mold layup.
• Experience leading teams in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects while meeting aggressive timelines.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision‑making skills.
• A hands‑on mindset with the ability to fabricate, test, troubleshoot, and validate concepts.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• NMMA and/or ABYC certification.
• Local candidates preferred.

Why Join Chris-Craft?

• Help shape the future of one of the most respected brands in the marine industry.
• Lead exciting new product development projects from concept through production.
• Work with highly skilled engineering and manufacturing teams.
• Enjoy a collaborative culture that values craftsmanship, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Make a visible impact on products enjoyed by boating enthusiasts around the world.

Ready to Build What's Next?

If you’re an experienced marine manufacturing professional who enjoys leading teams, solving complex challenges, and bringing innovative products to market, we'd love to hear from you.

Chris-Craft is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and values a diverse and inclusive workplace.