The Shop Supervisor/Foreman is responsible for overseeing daily production operations within the manufacturing shop, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to quality standards. This position provides direct leadership to production employees, coordinates workflow, monitors productivity, and serves as the primary liaison between production, engineering, quality, and management. The Shop Supervisor/Foreman promotes a culture of safety, teamwork, continuous improvement, and accountability.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and coordinate the daily activities of shop personnel.
- Assign work orders and production schedules to employees based on priorities and customer requirements.
- Monitor production workflow to ensure schedules, quality standards, and delivery requirements are met.
- Ensure compliance with all company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
- Conduct regular safety meetings, inspections, and corrective actions.
- Train, mentor, and develop employees on proper manufacturing processes, equipment operation, and workplace safety.
- Monitor employee attendance, performance, productivity, and work quality.
- Assist with employee coaching, disciplinary actions, and performance evaluations.
- Coordinate with Engineering, Quality, Purchasing, and Shipping departments to support operational objectives.
- Review production drawings, specifications, and work instructions to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Troubleshoot manufacturing issues and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime.
- Ensure proper use, maintenance, and care of equipment, tools, and machinery.
- Maintain accurate production records, labor tracking, and shop documentation.
- Monitor inventory levels of materials, consumables, and tooling and communicate replenishment needs.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, safety, and cost reduction.
- Participate in production planning and capacity discussions.
- Lead by example through professional conduct, accountability, and positive employee relations.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Associate degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Engineering, or related field preferred.
- Minimum 5 years of manufacturing experience.
- Minimum 2 years of supervisory or lead experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
- Experience with fabrication, welding, assembly, machining, or metal manufacturing operations is highly desirable.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong leadership and employee management skills.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes, quality control systems, and production scheduling.
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to effectively prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems preferred.
- Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement principles.
- Knowledge of OSHA and workplace safety requirements.