Custom Mechainic Supervisor

Job Title: Custom Supervisor

FLSA Classification: Exempt

Reports To: Production Manager

Department: Production

Industry: Architectural Millwork           

Location: Washington, DC Area

Job Summary

The Custom Supervisor is responsible for leading and overseeing the day-to-day operations of the custom department. This role ensures that production is completed safely, on time, within quality standards, and in alignment with company goals.

The Supervisor provides hands-on leadership, technical guidance, and workforce management while driving continuous improvement in safety, quality, and efficiency. This position requires advanced woodworking expertise combined with leadership, planning, and decision-making responsibilities.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Directly supervise Custom Bench Mechanics
• Assign work, set priorities, and adjust staffing to meet production demands
• Train, mentor, and develop employees; support skill progression
• Conduct performance evaluations, provide coaching, and initiate corrective action as needed
• Enforce company policies, safety standards, and quality expectations

Key Responsibilities

Production Leadership & Execution

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee daily bench production activities
• Ensure work is completed according to shop drawings, specifications, and schedules
• Balance workload and staffing to meet production deadlines
• Monitor workflow and remove bottlenecks to maintain efficiency
• Collaborate with Engineering, Production, Finishing, and Installation teams to ensure alignment

Safety Management

• Lead weekly toolbox talks and enforce all OSHA and company safety standards
• Conduct regular safety observations and correct unsafe behaviors immediately
• Ensure proper use of PPE and safe operation of all equipment
• Partner with Safety Committee and leadership on hazard identification and mitigation
• Know key components of lockout/tagout (LOTO)

Quality Control & Craftsmanship

• Ensure all products meet AWI standards and internal quality expectations
• Review work at critical production stages to prevent defects
• Identify root causes of defects and implement corrective actions

• Maintain high standards of craftsmanship across all projects

Technical Leadership

• Provide expert-level guidance on joinery, assembly methods, and constructability
• Support complex builds and troubleshoot production challenges
• Recommend process improvements, tooling, and construction methods

Operational Management

• Utilize ERP system (Innergy) to track/update production status and workflow
• Monitor labor efficiency and material usage
• Ensure proper maintenance and care of equipment

Continuous Improvement

• Drive initiatives to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and minimize rework
• Implement standardized processes and best practices
• Promote a culture of accountability, ownership, and teamwork

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Safety: Zero recordable safety incidents within the department
• On-Time Production: 85% of work orders completed on schedule
• First Pass Yield: 95% of work completed without requiring rework
• Labor Efficiency: ±10% of estimated hours per project
• Schedule Adherence: 95% of planned tasks completed as scheduled
• Attendance & Workforce Reliability: Team attendance rates and overtime control

Qualifications & Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training preferred
• 7+ years of experience in custom millwork, cabinetry, or fine woodworking
• 2+ years of leadership or supervisory experience strongly preferred
• Advanced ability to read and interpret architectural and shop drawings
• Strong knowledge of woodworking machinery, tools, and joinery techniques
• Familiarity with AWI standards
• Experience with ERP systems (Innergy preferred)
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and perform physical tasks for extended periods (8+ hours)
• Frequent bending, lifting, and handling materials (up to 50 lbs; assisted lifts up to 100 lbs)
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and dust
• Required use of PPE

Why Join?

• Competitive Compensation & Benefits: We offer a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive benefits (health, dental, 401k), and paid time off.
• Career Growth & Leadership Opportunities: Take on a pivotal role in a high growth company looking to expand and build out the team.
• Legacy of Excellence: Join a company with an outstanding reputation for quality and craftsmanship spanning five decades.
• Cutting-Edge Innovation: Be part of a team that is embarking on investments in the latest technology, automation, and sustainable building practices.
• Collaborative & Supportive Culture: Work with a passionate, creative team dedicated to excellence and client satisfaction.
• Impactful Work: Contribute to the creation of stunning, high-end commercial spaces that leave a lasting impression.

Pay Range: $76,784 to $115,175