Lead the Shop. Drive the Standard. Own the Outcome.
Milwaukee ForgeTech is a well-established and respected steel forger in the Milwaukee area — and we are looking for a Machine Shop Manager who knows how to run a tight operation. This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for directing machine shop production, developing procedures, managing tooling and dies, and building a team that performs at a high level every shift.
If you are an experienced manufacturing leader who thrives in a fast-paced forge shop environment, holds your team to a high standard, and knows how to get the most out of both people and equipment — this role was built for you.
What You'll Do
Operations & Production
- Plan, direct, and manage all machine shop operations to achieve efficient, on-schedule production consistent with quality standards and company goals
- Supervise and coordinate daily activities across manufacturing, scheduling, material procurement, shipping, and receiving
- Review operations through reports, staff meetings, floor observation, and direct contact to ensure workflow, quality, and budget conformance
- Develop and implement procedures for the manufacture and repair of dies, fixtures, roll tooling, and machine and forge shop equipment
- Inspect all dies and tooling completed in the machine shop for correctness and quality
- Calibrate all measuring devices used in the machine shop
- Order production materials and manage procurement for dies, fixtures, and roll tooling
- Supervise the Manufacturing Coordinator and Assistant Scheduler to ensure timely material releases and avoid production delays
Leadership & People Management
- Lead, coach, train, and develop machine shop employees to achieve their highest level of performance
- Conduct or assist in team and cell meetings; support Team Leaders in executing their responsibilities effectively
- Recommend staffing increases or reductions to meet scheduling requirements in a cost-effective manner
- Maintain positive employee relations and participate in grievance meetings as required
- Review employee records and recommend coaching, guidance, disciplinary action, or salary adjustments as appropriate
- Participate in union contract negotiations
Continuous Improvement & Planning
- Optimize the output of the machine shop by establishing best practices, refining programming approach being utilized and maximizing the capabilities of equipment and software.
- Research new equipment and recommend changes or replacements in collaboration with Engineering
- Investigate opportunities to bring purchased items into internal manufacture for cost savings
- Work with the executive responsible for the Machining area in budget development and long-range planning for the machine shop
- Supervise and coordinate programs essential to manufacturing operations — training, safety, housekeeping, work simplification, and cost reduction
- Implement corrective procedures and confer with support staff to resolve operational issues
- Meet die and tooling repair schedules as established
What You Bring
Experience & Education
- Four-year college degree preferred, or equivalent experience in manufacturing supervision
- 7 or more years of experience in manufacturing supervision with exposure to forging, machining, or heavy industrial environments
- Hands-on experience in a machine shop that supports a forging operation strongly preferred
- General knowledge of metal machining equipment, procedures, and tooling — including dies, fixtures, and roll tooling
Skills & Capabilities
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, machine shop drawings, and forge shop service manuals
- Proficiency in shop math and calculations related to machine shop work
- Strong written and verbal communication skills — able to interact effectively with employees, supervisors, vendors, and other professionals
- Proven ability to motivate, develop, and hold teams accountable in a union environment
- Computer literacy — proficiency in basic business and manufacturing software
- Ability to work in both office and active plant conditions, including extended shifts and occasional weekends
Work Environment
This role operates across both office and active machine shop and forge floor environments. Work days average 9 to 10 hours with some weekend availability and occasional shift changes required. Standard PPE and safety requirements apply throughout the plant.
Why Milwaukee ForgeTech
This is a leadership role with real authority and real impact. You will manage a critical function in a shop with decades of history and a commitment to doing the work right. We invest in our people, hold high standards, and offer a stable environment where strong leaders are recognized and relied upon.
- Competitive pay commensurate with experience
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Life insurance and company-paid short-term disability
- Paid holidays, vacation, and personal days
- Paid training
- Employee Referral Program
- And more!
Work Location: In person — Milwaukee area.
If you are ready to lead a machine shop operation where your decisions drive daily performance, apply today.
Pay: $90,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
