Shop Lead Hand

Job Description
Millwork Shop Supervisor Role
Summary

Our client is an AWMAC-approved architectural millwork company with over 16 years of experience specializing in high-quality commercial projects. They work closely with general contractors, designers, and developers to deliver precision-crafted millwork on time and to specification.

Their team combines skilled craftsmanship with modern technology, strong project management, and a collaborative culture. From programming and production to installation, they pride themselves on accountability, quality control, and attention to detail at every stage.

Our client believes in building more than millwork—they build strong teams, clear processes, and long-term partnerships.

Position Summary

The Millwork Shop Supervisor oversees all day-to-day operations of the production facility, ensuring projects are fabricated to the highest quality standards, on time, and within budget. This role is responsible for managing production schedules, coordinating teams, maintaining equipment, and implementing efficient workflows that align with the company’s quality and safety standards.

Responsibilities
1. Production Management

• Plan, organize, and supervise all shop activities related to millwork fabrication.
• Review project drawings, specifications, and schedules to determine production requirements.
• Coordinate production timelines with project management, design, and procurement teams.
• Monitor progress to ensure projects are completed on schedule and meet quality standards.
• Troubleshoot production issues and adjust workflow as needed.

2. Team Leadership

• Lead and motivate a team of cabinetmakers, assemblers, and other shop staff.
• Assign tasks and manage labor resources efficiently based on workload and priorities.
• Train new employees and promote skill development within the team.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

3. Quality Assurance

• Conduct regular inspections of work in progress and final products.
• Implement corrective actions and best practices to ensure consistent quality standards.

4. Equipment & Facility Management

• Oversee maintenance and calibration of CNC machinery, edge banders, saws, and other shop equipment.
• Ensure the shop remains organized, safe, and compliant with all health and safety regulations.
• Collaborate with management to recommend equipment upgrades and process improvements.

5. Coordination & Communication

• Communicate regularly with project managers, designers, and procurement staff to clarify details and resolve issues.
• Provide production updates and identify potential delays early.
• Participate in weekly production and scheduling meetings.

Requirements Requirements

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in a supervisory, lead hand, or management role within an architectural millwork, cabinetry, woodworking, or custom manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of millwork fabrication processes, materials, hardware, and finishing techniques.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, shop drawings, specifications, and production schedules.
• Experience managing production workflows, shop personnel, and multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of CNC machinery, edge banders, panel saws, and other woodworking equipment.
• Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop production teams while maintaining a positive and accountable work environment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills with the ability to address production challenges effectively.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills.
• Commitment to quality workmanship, continuous improvement, and meeting project deadlines.
• Strong understanding of workplace health and safety regulations and best practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Excel, and Word.
• Experience working within an AWMAC environment and knowledge of AWMAC quality standards is considered a strong asset.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment while maintaining attention to detail and accuracy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in woodworking, manufacturing, engineering, construction management, or a related field is an asset.
• Experience with ERP, production management, or manufacturing software systems.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Previous experience in commercial architectural millwork production is highly preferred.

Requirements
Requirements Minimum 5+ years of experience in a supervisory, lead hand, or management role within an architectural millwork, cabinetry, woodworking, or custom manufacturing environment. Strong understanding of millwork fabrication processes, materials, hardware, and finishing techniques. Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, shop drawings, specifications, and production schedules. Experience managing production workflows, shop personnel, and multiple projects simultaneously. Knowledge of CNC machinery, edge banders, panel saws, and other…