Shop Manager - Woodworking

Benefits:

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

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.

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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