Shop Manager - Woodworking

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Bonus based on performance
• Company parties
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

ABOUT THE ROLE

Custom Millwork & Display is seeking an experienced Shop Manager to lead day-to-day operations of our architectural millwork production facility in South Bend, IN. This is a hands-on leadership role for a driven craftsperson who takes pride in quality and thrives in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment. The Shop Manager will be responsible for overseeing a team of skilled woodworkers, maintaining production flow, upholding quality standards, and acting as the key bridge between the shop floor and project management.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Production & Operations
Plan, organize, and direct daily shop operations to meet production schedules and quality standards
Coordinate work assignments across cabinet makers, machine operators, and shop staff
Review shop drawings and specifications to ensure all work conforms to project orders and installation requirements
Monitor work-in-progress and adjust workflows to maintain efficiency and on-time delivery
Verify inbound material shipments for accuracy and condition; oversee outbound loading for job sites

Quality & Safety
Maintain and enforce AWI standards for architectural millwork and casework fabrication
Perform quality control inspections throughout production, from raw materials to finished goods
Uphold and promote all shop safety policies; conduct weekly safety meetings and address hazards promptly
Ensure all outbound items are correctly labeled, protected, and ready for delivery

Team Leadership
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of skilled tradespeople, setting a strong example of craftsmanship and professionalism
Coach employees on performance, quality, reliability, and safe work practices
Monitor individual work levels and provide constructive feedback and recognition
Assist in hiring and onboarding new shop employees as the business grows

Reporting & Communication
Communicate daily with project managers and upper management on production status, scheduling, and workflow
Provide daily shop reports tracking output, issues, and progress against schedule
Coordinate with project managers on scheduling priorities and urgent customer needs
Flag material shortages, equipment issues, or personnel concerns proactively

Equipment & Facilities
Oversee the condition, maintenance, and safe operation of all woodworking machinery (CNC router, edge bander, beam saw, etc.)
Monitor tool and material inventories; initiate purchase requests to maintain adequate supplies
Develop and implement maintenance schedules and procedures for shop equipment

QUALIFICATIONS

Required
5+ years of hands-on experience in architectural millwork, custom cabinetry, or a closely related field
Proven leadership or supervisory experience in a production/manufacturing environment
Extensive knowledge of woodworking machinery and their safe operation
Strong working knowledge of AWI standards for millwork and casework
Ability to read and interpret shop drawings and computer-based design files
Knowledge of materials including hardwoods, MDF, plywood, plastic laminates, veneers, and melamine
Excellent communication skills verbal and written with the ability to interface with project managers, clients, and upper management
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines

Preferred
Experience with Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word)
Familiarity with industry-specific software (Cabinet Vision, Microvellum, or similar)
Cabinet Maker certification or formal woodworking trade training