Shop Foreman - Kalamazoo Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 98,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Kalamazoo, MI seeks an experienced Shop Foreman to lead daily shop floor operations, supervise technicians, and ensure production schedules are met.

The role requires 5–7 years in manufacturing with 2+ in a supervisory capacity; must read blueprints and understand machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly; experience with ERP systems and CAD tools is a plus; candidates who prioritize safety and quality will thrive.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of experience in a manufacturing shop environment, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Proven ability to read and interpret blueprints, schedings, and technical specifications.
• Strong knowledge of various manufacturing processes, including machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly.
• Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting a range of industrial machinery and equipment.
• Demonstrated experience in implementing and enforcing safety protocols and quality control standards.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills, with a track record of effective team leadership.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct the daily operations of the manufacturing shop floor.
• Supervise, train, and mentor a team of skilled technicians and production staff.
• Ensure efficient workflow, optimal resource allocation, and adherence to production schedules.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols and quality control standards.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate maintenance activities.
• Manage inventory of materials, tools, and spare parts.
• Collaborate with engineering and management to optimize manufacturing processes.

Skills

Leadership

Blueprint reading

Team supervision

Problem-solving

Safety compliance

Tools

ERP systems (SAP, Oracle)

CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD)

Industrial machinery knowledge

Job description

Shop Foreman | Kalamazoo, MI

Salary Range: $65,000 - $98,000 depending on experience

Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for excelling in shop foreman? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We partner with leading manufacturing companies in Kalamazoo, seeking experienced Shop Foremans to strengthen their teams.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with multiple companies in Kalamazoo seeking experienced Shop Foremans. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct the daily operations of the manufacturing shop floor.
• Supervise, train, and mentor a team of skilled technicians and production staff.
• Ensure efficient workflow, optimal resource allocation, and adherence to production schedules.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols and quality control standards.
• Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions and coordinate maintenance activities.
• Manage inventory of materials, tools, and spare parts.
• Collaborate with engineering and management to optimize manufacturing processes.

Recommended Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in a manufacturing shop environment, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Proven ability to read and interpret blueprints, schedings, and technical specifications.
• Strong knowledge of various manufacturing processes, including machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly.
• Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting a range of industrial machinery and equipment.
• Demonstrated experience in implementing and enforcing safety protocols and quality control standards.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills, with a track record of effective team leadership.

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) for production planning and inventory management
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for reviewing technical drawings
• Bilingual in Spanish and English

Job Titles That Should Apply

Shop Foreman,Shop Supervisor,Production Foreman,Manufacturing Foreman,Plant Foreman,Operations Foreman,Maintenance Foreman,Fabrication Foreman

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.