Machine Shop Foreman

Machine Shop Foreman

Position Type: Full-time, In-person Location: Chicago, IL

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Machine Shop Foreman to lead our machining operations. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who thrives in a precision machining environment, excels at mentoring skilled tradespeople, and is committed to delivering high-quality work on time. If you're a strong communicator with deep technical expertise and a passion for continuous improvement, we want to hear from you.

The Foreman oversees all daily shop operations, ensuring production runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently. You'll manage scheduling, monitor job progress, solve technical challenges, train machinists, and serve as the primary leader on the shop floor. This role is critical to meeting customer expectations and supporting cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

Planning & Scheduling

• Develop optimal manufacturing methods, including machine selection, setups, and work routing
• Plan and prioritize jobs to meet deadlines while maximizing efficiency
• Coordinate activities of machinists, CNC operators, and shop personnel
• Interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and CAD models
• Collaborate with procurement and outside processing coordinators to ensure material readiness

Production & Quality Management

• Ensure all machining processes meet tight tolerances and quality specifications
• Troubleshoot tooling, equipment, and production issues in real time
• Verify proper machine setup, operation, and maintenance standards
• Coordinate with other shop division leads as needed
• Monitor work-in-progress to maintain quality and schedule adherence

Leadership & Team Development

• Train, coach, and evaluate machinists and shop personnel
• Provide constructive feedback and conduct annual performance reviews
• Address attendance, safety, and performance issues promptly and professionally
• Build and maintain a high-performing shop culture

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce all safety policies and OSHA requirements
• Conduct toolbox talks and post-incident reviews
• Maintain clean, organized, and hazard-free work areas
• Model safe practices and hold the team accountable

Communication & Continuous Improvement

• Provide timely updates to project managers, engineers, and office staff
• Communicate delays, challenges, or material issues promptly
• Recommend efficiency improvements, new tooling, and process innovations
• Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to optimize workflows

What You Bring

• Strong leadership and team-development skills with proven experience
• High mechanical aptitude and demonstrated machining expertise
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities
• Sharp attention to detail and quality standards
• Confidence making sound decisions under pressure
• Clear, professional communication skills across all organizational levels
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and blueprints
• Experience with CNC and conventional machining processes

What Success Looks Like

• Jobs are completed on time, per specification, and without quality issues
• Project managers and engineers receive clear, timely communication
• Machinists feel supported, well-trained, and held to high performance standards
• A safe, efficient, well-organized shop environment
• Measurable continuous improvements to processes, efficiency, and workflow

Benefits

• Health Insurance: PPO plan with employer covering 50% of employee premiums; dependent coverage available at shared cost
• Dental Insurance: Optional coverage available; employee-paid
• Vision Insurance: Vision plan available
• Two weeks of paid vacation annually
• Annual holiday bonus based on company performance
• Employer-funded profit-sharing plan with 100% company contribution
• 401(k) plan available after one year of employment
• Tuition reimbursement for job-related education and professional development
• Employee discounts through payroll provider