Job Description

About Us

We're a growing engineer-to-order manufacturer specializing in custom industrial equipment including paint booths, powder coating systems, mixing rooms, blast booths, industrial curing ovens, washers, and conveyor systems. Every project we build is uniquely engineered to meet specific customer requirements. We're seeking a hands-on Production Manager to transform our manufacturing operations and build a culture of accountability and excellence.

The Opportunity

This is a critical leadership role for someone who thrives in challenging environments and can turn around underperforming operations. You'll have full ownership of our production floor and the authority to implement real change. We need someone who can work independently, solve problems creatively, and isn't afraid to get their hands dirty when needed.

Key Responsibilities

Production Leadership & Management

Manage and mentor a team of 5+ including welders, sheet metal fabricators, and general production staff Transform shop floor culture from the ground up - establishing accountability, efficiency, and pride in workmanship Oversee all aspects of production from fabrication through assembly, testing, and shipping Implement production tracking systems and methodologies to achieve on-time delivery (current rate needs dramatic improvement)

Technical & Quality Oversight

Provide hands-on training in proper sheet metal fitting and assembly techniques Review engineering drawings and ensure accurate fabrication to specifications Establish and enforce quality control standards throughout production Coordinate with engineering team to resolve design issues and improve manufacturability

Planning & Coordination

Create and maintain production schedules for multiple concurrent custom projects (typically 10+ active orders) Coordinate material procurement and vendor deliveries to support production timeline Interface directly with mechanical and electrical engineering teams to ensure smooth project flow Manage external services including powder coating (currently outsourced) and crating contractors

Systems & Communication

Utilize digital tools for production tracking and team communication (training provided) Participate in daily engineering coordination meetings Provide regular updates on production status, bottlenecks, and resource needs Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste and increase efficiency

What You Bring

Required Experience & Skills

5-10 years of hands-on experience in custom metal fabrication and production management Strong expertise in sheet metal fabrication, fitting, and assembly Proven experience managing and developing production teams Track record of improving production efficiency and on-time delivery in challenging environments Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and specifications

Critical Competencies

Problem Solver

: You see chaos as an opportunity to create order

Independent Leader

: After initial training, you can run operations with minimal oversight

Hands-On Teacher

: You lead by example and can train others in proper techniques

Adaptable

: Every project is different - you thrive on variety rather than repetitive production

Communicator

: You can interface professionally with engineers, customers, and shop floor staff alike

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in engineer-to-order or custom manufacturing environments Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles Familiarity with industrial equipment (HVAC, paint systems, material handling) Experience with production planning software and digital collaboration tools

What We Offer

Opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing company Authority to implement real change and build your own production system Direct reporting relationship to ownership with visibility into all aspects of the business Stable, established company with diverse customer base

Location & Requirements

Position based at our manufacturing facility in Waterdown, ON On-site position requiring daily presence on the production floor Must be authorized to work in Canada Must be willing to work in a remote factory location

The Challenge

We'll be transparent: this role requires someone who can handle significant challenges. Our current on-time delivery rate needs dramatic improvement, and there are cultural issues on the shop floor that need addressing. We need a leader who sees these challenges as opportunities to build something better.

If you're the type of person who has looked at dysfunctional operations and thought "I could fix this," we want to hear from you.

To Apply

Send your resume and a brief note explaining:

Your experience turning around underperforming production operations A specific example of how you've improved shop floor culture Your approach to managing custom/project-based manufacturing

Interview Process:

Initial phone screen (30 minutes) On-site facility tour and technical interview (2-3 hours) Final interview with ownership Reference checks and offer
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $80,000.00-$90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Extended health care
Work Location: In person