Description
Job Overview
This hands-on supervisor manages daily production, maintains project schedules, promotes workplace safety, and verifies that work meets high-quality standards before advancing to the next department. Reporting to the Production Manager, the role combines woodworking, team training, production planning, technical problem-solving, and coordination with Drafting, Layout, Finishing, and other shop departments.
Duties
Assign and sequence daily work for cabinet doors, panels, house doors, wall panels, face frames, and related custom components; communicate priorities, expected labor hours, and completion due dates.
Work alongside the team when needed, due to schedule constraints & employee absences.
Answer construction and layout questions, train employees in machining, assembly, and quality standards using efficient methods and safe practices.
Inspect work during production and before handoff; use feedback from Finishing and other departments to reduce mistakes, rework, and delays.
Coordinate labor, materials, drawings, tooling, and machine availability with the Production Manager; identify schedule risks early and adjust workflow when needed.
Oversee safe operation and routine maintenance of table saws, shapers, molders, clamps, and other department equipment; keep the work area clean and organized.
Plan solid-lumber and specialty-tooling needs, monitor inventory, and coordinate orders or repairs with Purchasing and the Production Manager.
Provide technical input to Drafting and Layout, perform door or panel layout when needed, and use AutoCAD drawings to verify dimensions and construction details.
Coach employees, document training and performance, assist with reviews, and improve department procedures, production methods, and labor-hour estimates.
Requirements
* Substantial hands-on experience building custom cabinet doors, panels, and architectural millwork in a residential millwork shop.
* Ability to lead and train a shop team while maintaining high standards for craftsmanship, productivity, and safety.
* Strong knowledge of woodworking machinery, joinery, solid lumber, shop drawings, and accurate door and panel layout.
* Working knowledge of AutoCAD for reading drawings, checking dimensions, and printing full-scale details.
* Clear communication, sound judgment, and the ability to coordinate work across departments and solve production issues promptly.
Schedule and Compensation
Minimum 40-hour workweek, with overtime as needed based on workload and scheduling demands. Pay: $35–$40 per hour. Compensation based on experience. Work location: Waukegan, IL 60087, in person.
