Production Supervisor; Wood Processing

Job Details

Production Supervisor (Wood Processing)
Job

Location:

New Castle, DE
Job Type: Permanent / Direct Hire
Salary: $55,000 - $75,000
Phone:

The Wood Processing Supervisor leads daily operations in the wood fabrication and finishing department. This role oversees production performance, safety compliance, quality standards, and team leadership for wood components used in bath furniture, storage, and home organization products. The position drives operational efficiency, cost control, and continuous improvement within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

• Direct and supervise daily wood processing operations including cutting, routing, CNC machining, sanding, drilling, shaping, assembly, and finishing.
• Ensure production schedules are achieved while meeting quality and cost targets.
• Monitor KPIs such as throughput, scrap rate, rework, labor efficiency, and equipment utilization.
• Allocate labor resources and adjust workflow to maintain optimal production flow.

• Lead, coach, and develop production associates within the wood shop.
• Enforce OSHA and plant safety standards, ensuring proper PPE usage and compliance.
• Conduct performance evaluations, training initiatives, and progressive discipline as needed.
• Promote cross‑training and workforce flexibility.

• Ensure wood components meet dimensional tolerances, fit/finish specifications, and durability standards.
• Partner with Quality and Engineering to resolve non‑conformances and implement corrective actions.
• Oversee stain, paint, laminate, and coating processes to maintain consistency and product integrity.
• Maintain process documentation and standardized work instructions.

• Coordinate preventive maintenance for CNC routers, panel saws, edge banders, and finishing equipment.
• Troubleshoot production or mechanical issues in real time.
• Collaborate with Maintenance to improve uptime and reduce downtime events.

• Drive lean manufacturing initiatives to reduce waste and improve material yield.
• Identify cost‑reduction opportunities in wood utilization, cycle time, and labor deployment.
• Support sustainable manufacturing efforts including scrap reduction and efficient material handling.

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Wood Science, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in wood processing, cabinetry, furniture manufacturing, or similar production environment.
• Minimum 2 years of supervisory experience in manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of hardwoods, MDF, particle board, laminates, and finishing systems.
• Experience operating or supervising CNC woodworking equipment.
• Working knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and production scheduling systems.

• Leadership and team development.
• Production planning and operational discipline.
• Data‑driven performance management.
• Strong problem‑solving ability.
• Focus on quality, safety, and efficiency.

Manufacturing environment with exposure to woodworking machinery, dust, finishing materials, and industrial noise. PPE required.