Machine Shop Supervisor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of advanced manufacturing, the role of a Machine Shop Supervisor has become increasingly significant.

As technology progresses, the demand for skilled individuals who can oversee, manage, and ensure the smooth operation of our mechanical production grows ever louder.

But what does it truly mean to be a Machine Shop Supervisor?

Whether you are:

A job seeker trying to understand the core of this position,
A hiring manager planning the perfect candidate profile,
Or simply interested in the intricacies of machine shop operations,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Machine Shop Supervisor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

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Machine Shop Supervisor Duties and Responsibilities

Machine Shop Supervisors oversee the day-to-day operations of machine shops, which include the management of staff, maintenance of equipment, and ensuring that production schedules are met.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

Supervising and managing the machine shop staff, which includes hiring, training, and evaluating performance
Overseeing the operation of all machinery, ensuring they are well-maintained and functioning properly
Assisting with troubleshooting and resolving any issues related to the machines
Developing, implementing and enforcing safety and compliance measures to ensure a safe working environment
Planning and scheduling work assignments and production schedules
Inspecting all completed work for quality and adherence to specifications
Managing and controlling the machine shop inventory, ensuring the availability of necessary tools and parts
Collaborating with other departments to meet production goals
Preparing and presenting reports on machine shop operations and productivity

Machine Shop Supervisor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Machine Shop Supervisor to oversee and coordinate the daily workflow of our manufacturing department.

The Machine Shop Supervisor’s responsibilities include scheduling and overseeing the production processes, maintaining a safe and clean work environment, and ensuring all products meet quality standards.

The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of machining processes, can manage multiple tasks concurrently, and is committed to meeting deadlines and increasing productivity.

Responsibilities

Oversee and coordinate daily production operations
Ensure all safety protocols and procedures are followed
Train, guide, and evaluate machine operators
Monitor equipment and schedule regular maintenance
Ensure products meet quality standards and specifications
Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and productivity
Maintain clean and organized workspace
Communicate any issues or delays in production to management team
Assist in inventory management and supply ordering
Ensure compliance with company policies and regulations

Qualifications

Proven experience as a Machine Shop Supervisor or similar role in a manufacturing setting
Strong understanding of machining processes and equipment
Excellent leadership and team management abilities
Ability to multitask and effectively manage time
Strong problem-solving skills
Experience with quality control and safety regulations
High school diploma or equivalent; degree in a technical, engineering, or relevant field is a plus

Benefits

401(k)
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

Job Title: Machine Shop Supervisor
Work Environment: This position is based in a manufacturing environment and involves physical activity, including lifting heavy items and operating machinery.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Manufacturing Manager.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
Employment Type: Full-time
Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does a Machine Shop Supervisor Do?

Machine Shop Supervisors oversee the day-to-day operations of machine shops which are often parts of manufacturing plants or industrial settings.

They are responsible for supervising and coordinating the activities of machine operators, ensuring that they are following the correct procedures and safety protocols.

The Machine Shop Supervisor’s role involves scheduling machine maintenance, troubleshooting machine-related issues, and ensuring the quality of products manufactured by the machines.

They also train staff on machine operation and safety standards, carry out performance evaluations, and manage employee relations within their department.

In addition, Machine Shop Supervisors have administrative duties such as managing budgets, maintaining inventory of tools and supplies, and ensuring that the shop meets production deadlines.

They work closely with other departments like quality control, production, and engineering to ensure seamless operations in the manufacturing process.

Lastly, Machine Shop Supervisors are often responsible for implementing process improvements to enhance productivity and efficiency in the shop.

Machine Shop Supervisor Qualifications and Skills

A competent Machine Shop Supervisor should possess skills and qualifications tailored to their job role, which include:

Strong technical knowledge about machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repairs, and maintenance, is essential.
Excellent leadership skills to manage and motivate a team of machine operators and other shop personnel effectively.
Superior problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and resolve technical and operational issues that arise in the shop.
Exceptional organizational skills to manage inventories, schedules, and workflow efficiently.
Effective interpersonal and communication skills to interact with employees, management, and customers.
Solid understanding of safety regulations and standards to maintain a safe and productive work environment.
Ability to work under pressure and make critical decisions to ensure the smooth operation of the machine shop.
Detail-oriented with an ability to inspect machines and finished products for quality control and assurance.
Good physical stamina and coordination to handle heavy machinery, stand for extended periods, and manage the physical demands of the job.

Machine Shop Supervisor Experience Requirements

Machine Shop Supervisors are typically required to have a high school diploma or equivalent, with a preference for post-secondary education in a related field such as mechanical engineering technology.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an apprenticeship or part-time role in a machine shop.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Machine Operator, CNC Programmer, or Quality Assurance Inspector.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level roles in a machine shop.

They typically hone their skills in areas such as machine operation, preventive maintenance, and safety protocols.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are expected to have leadership experience in their background.

They may have supervised a team, managed production schedules, and ensured quality standards.

At this level, they are usually ready for a supervisory or managerial role in the machine shop.

In addition, Machine Shop Supervisors are expected to have a solid understanding of machining equipment, blueprints, and production procedures.

Prior experience with computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software may also be desirable.

Knowledge of industry safety regulations and an ability to motivate and lead a team are also important.

Machine Shop Supervisor Education and Training Requirements

Machine Shop Supervisors typically need a high school diploma or an equivalent degree to begin their career.

They often start their journey as machinists or machine operators, gaining practical experience in different machine types, tools, and machining processes.

A solid understanding of machine shop operations, safety protocols, and quality control measures is crucial in this role.

For the supervisory role, they might need a few years of experience in a machine shop setting.

An associate or bachelor’s degree in manufacturing technology, engineering, or a related field can be beneficial and may sometimes be required for more advanced positions.

Many employers offer on-the-job training programs to help future supervisors understand the specifics of their operations.

These programs can last from a few months to a couple of years, depending on the complexity of the machines and the shop’s workflow.

Further, supervisors should possess good communication and leadership skills.

Therefore, attending workshops or training programs on leadership, conflict resolution, and team management can be advantageous.

Professional certifications from recognized bodies like the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) can also boost a candidate’s career prospects.

These certifications validate the individual’s skills and knowledge in machine shop operations and supervision.

Continuous learning is important in this role as technology in this field is continually advancing.

Therefore, regular training and staying updated with the latest industry trends and advancements in machine technologies is highly beneficial.

Machine Shop Supervisor Salary Expectations

A Machine Shop Supervisor can expect to earn an average salary of $59,687 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, level of education, company size, and geographical location.

Machine Shop Supervisor Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Machine Shop Supervisor need?

A Machine Shop Supervisor should ideally have a high school diploma or equivalent, although a degree in a related field such as mechanical engineering or industrial technology could be beneficial.

They should also have extensive experience in machine shop operations, including knowledge of machining techniques, the use of various tools and equipment, and safety protocols.

A certification in a relevant field can also be advantageous.

What are the daily duties of a Machine Shop Supervisor?

A Machine Shop Supervisor’s day typically begins with a review of the production schedule and deadlines.

They coordinate and distribute tasks to the machine shop team, ensure all machinery is in good working condition, and maintain adherence to safety protocols.

They spend a significant portion of their day on the shop floor, supervising operations, troubleshooting issues, and providing technical guidance.

They are also responsible for training new staff, maintaining inventory of raw materials and tools, and liaising with other departments or clients as needed.

What qualities make a good Machine Shop Supervisor?

A good Machine Shop Supervisor is detail-oriented, with a strong understanding of machine shop operations and the ability to troubleshoot issues effectively.

They have excellent leadership skills, with the ability to manage a team, delegate tasks, and ensure the smooth running of operations.

They also have strong communication skills, enabling them to liaise effectively with team members and other stakeholders.

Safety-consciousness is another essential trait, as is the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

What should you look for in a Machine Shop Supervisor resume?

In a Machine Shop Supervisor resume, look for evidence of extensive experience in machine shop operations, including knowledge of various machining techniques and tools.

Also look for any leadership experience, as the role requires managing a team and coordinating operations.

Certification in a relevant field could be a strong indicator of the candidate’s technical knowledge.

Finally, any instances of problem-solving, effective communication, and adherence to safety protocols would be highly beneficial.

Is it challenging to find a qualified Machine Shop Supervisor?

Finding a qualified Machine Shop Supervisor can be challenging as the role requires a unique combination of technical knowledge, leadership skills, and experience in machine shop operations.

However, with a well-defined job description and a thorough recruitment process, it is possible to find candidates who have the necessary qualifications and skills.

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the nuts and bolts of being a machine shop supervisor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about overseeing operations.

It’s about shaping the future of manufacturing, one component at a time.

With our comprehensive machine shop supervisor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to forge ahead.

But why end here?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your tool for creating precision-made listings or honing your resume to faultlessness.

Remember:

Every component is a part of the larger mechanism.

Let’s construct that future. Together.

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Machine Shop Supervisor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

Machine Shop Supervisor Duties and Responsibilities