The Senior Shop Supervisor – Custom Process Equipment provides strategic leadership and full operational oversight of the fabrication shop responsible for custom process equipment in food and beverage manufacturing. This senior role ensures excellence in production quality, adherence to sanitary and safety standards, and optimal resource utilization. The supervisor leads multiple teams across shifts, drives continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborates closely with engineering, quality, and production leadership to meet business objectives.
Lead and manage all shop operations related to fabrication, assembly, and testing of custom process equipment to ensure compliance with food-grade and regulatory standards.
Develop and implement shop procedures, best practices, and quality control protocols.
Supervise and mentor multiple supervisors, lead fabricators, and technicians, fostering a high-performance, safety-focused culture.
Oversee production planning, resource allocation, and workflow management to meet demanding project deadlines and budget targets.
Drive Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and cost reduction initiatives within the shop.
Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, quality assurance, maintenance, and production teams on equipment design, process optimization, and troubleshooting.
Ensure rigorous safety compliance, conducting regular audits, training, and incident investigations.
Manage vendor relationships, equipment maintenance, and procurement of materials to support shop operations.
Prepare detailed reports on production performance, quality metrics, safety, and resource utilization for executive leadership.
High school diploma or equivalent required; technical diploma, associate, or bachelor’s degree in fabrication, mechanical engineering, or related field preferred
8+ years of fabrication and assembly experience with custom process equipment in food and beverage or sanitary manufacturing
Minimum 4 years in a supervisory or senior leadership role
Expert knowledge of fabrication processes, food-grade standards, and quality management systems
Strong leadership, coaching, and team development abilities
Proven track record in Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and safety management
Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills
Ability to lead multi-shift operations and manage complex projects efficiently