Sample Shop Manager

Location: Miamisburg, OH (HQ) Department: Product Development / Design Reports To: Director of Design FLSA Status: Full-Time, Exempt Level: M Travel: Minimal Summary The Sample Shop Manager oversees all aspects of prototype fabrication and sample assembly, ensuring high-quality sample builds that support product development and customer line reviews. This role bridges engineering, product design, and production teams, and leads the sample shop team in delivering accurate, on‑time prototype work. The ideal candidate has a background in manufacturing operations, mechanical systems, or bicycle assembly, and a strong understanding of workshop management. Why This Role Matters Great products start with great prototypes. The sample shop is where Covation Global’s designs become physical, testable bikes — and where customer line reviews and product decisions are won or lost on the quality and timeliness of the builds. The Sample Shop Manager is the leader who makes that happen: high‑quality samples delivered on time, a well‑run and safe shop, and a team that operates efficiently and resourcefully. Without this role, sample quality and timelines slip and product development loses momentum. What Success Looks Like (3 Core Outcomes) High-Quality Samples, Delivered On Time: Prototype and sample builds are accurate, complete, and ready ahead of project milestones and customer line reviews. Design, engineering, and product teams can rely on the shop to deliver quality builds when they need them. A Safe, Well-Run Shop: The sample shop is safe, compliant (OSHA and environmental), and well‑organized. Tools, fixtures, and inventory are managed tightly, and safety is part of the culture. Efficient, Resourceful Operations: The shop runs within budget and the team continually finds smarter, more sustainable ways to operate — including reclaiming value from end‑of‑life bikes and parts and reinvesting it in the team. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Other duties may be assigned. Sample Shop Management Oversee daily operations of the sample and prototype shop, ensuring equipment readiness and adherence to safety standards. Collaborate with product development, design, and engineering teams to fabricate, modify, and assemble prototype bicycles, frames, and components. Maintain inventory of tools, fixtures, raw materials, and consumables. Manage sample timelines to align with project milestones. Ensure quality control and documentation of all prototype builds. Coordinate with suppliers for special materials, machining, and outsourced fabrication needs. Manage the responsible disposal and recycling of obsolete samples, bikes, and parts — including reclaiming metal scrap value and reinvesting proceeds into team engagement initiatives. Train and supervise sample shop technicians, assemblers, and other support staff. Assign, prioritize, and delegate tasks to direct reports, balancing workload to meet project deadlines. Coach and develop team members, managing performance and day‑to‑day direction. Budgeting & Planning Collaborate with the Director to develop and implement an annual budget plan for the sample shop, ensuring effective maintenance and adherence throughout the year. Track expenditures, control costs, and identify opportunities for operational efficiency. Support capital planning for new equipment purchases. Supervisory Responsibilities Yes. This role supervises sample shop technicians, assemblers, and support staff — including the Lead Sample Shop Technician — and is responsible for assigning tasks, training, performance, and day‑to‑day direction. Education and/or Experience Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Operations Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience). 5+ years in workshop, fabrication, or sample shop management — preferably in the cycling, sporting goods, or light manufacturing industry. Experience managing teams. Hands‑on mechanical or technical skills (bike assembly, machining, welding, or fabrication experience preferred). Proven analytical and organizational skills; capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment. Covation Global’s Core Values and Strategic Pillars Integrity: We do what we say. Simplicity: Complexity is a tax. Priority: Focus on what matters most. Agility: Speed is precision in motion. Rider Centricity: Keeps the rider at the center of decisions. Collaborative Innovation: Develops game‑changing solutions inspired by the rider, supported by collective research and shared expertise, and validated by business results. Operational Excellence: Delivers results with lean, efficient execution. ESG & Responsible Growth: Supports sustainable innovation, ethical operations, and positive community impact. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Equal Employment Opportunity Statement United Wheels Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We are dedicated to building a workplace where people from all walks of life feel seen, supported, and empowered to do their best work. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, and we encourage you to bring your full, authentic self to work. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. #J-18808-Ljbffr United Wheels Inc.