Overview

We are seeking an experienced Shop Manager to lead our fabrication studio as part of a planned leadership transition. This role is critical to the ongoing success of our production operations and will serve as the central point of coordination across all shop activities.

The Shop Manager is responsible for translating design and production requirements into executable shop plans, managing people and schedules on the floor, and ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and to a high standard of quality. This is a senior, hands on leadership role that combines operational oversight, technical understanding, and team management.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee day to day operations of the fabrication shop across all active projects

Develop and manage production schedules in coordination with project and production management

Allocate labor and resources across departments to meet project timelines and quality expectations

Review drawings and production documentation and assign scope to department leads and fabricators

Serve as the primary liaison between the shop floor and the office team

Monitor workflow, identify bottlenecks, and proactively solve production challenges

Maintain quality control standards and ensure consistent execution across projects

Support continuous improvement of shop processes, systems, and documentation

Participate in hiring, training, and mentoring of shop leadership and senior fabricators

Promote a safe, organized, and collaborative shop environment

Ideal Background

Ten or more years of experience in fabrication, production, or technical operations

Proven leadership experience managing teams in a shop or production environment

Strong understanding of fabrication processes across wood, metal, and mixed media builds

Ability to read and interpret drawings and production files and translate them into shop tasks

Comfort working closely with project managers, designers, and clients as needed

Experience balancing multiple concurrent projects and shifting priorities

Clear communicator who can lead with authority while earning trust on the shop floor

Technical and Process Expectations

Familiarity with CAD files and production documentation workflows

Ability to work comfortably with both analog and digital tools

Interest in improving systems, workflows, and production planning processes

Experience introducing or refining scheduling, tracking, or management tools is a plus

Additional Notes

This is a fully in person role due to the hands on nature of the work

The role is part of a planned succession and includes a training and transition period

Relocation support may be available for the right candidate

The position is designed to evolve as the organization modernizes and grows