Shop Foreman

Position overview

The Tool & Die Shop Foreman supervises daily operations of a small tool and die shop, leading machinists and toolmakers to ensure high-quality tooling is produced safely, on time, and within budget. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with team leadership, scheduling, and process oversight.

Roles & Responsibilities

Shop Supervision & Leadership

• Supervise and coordinate the daily activities of toolmakers, machinists, and apprentices
• Assign work based on priority, skill level, and production deadlines
• Train, mentor, and support employees in machining and tool & die best practices
• Promote a positive, team-oriented work environment

Production & Scheduling

• Plan and manage workflow to meet production schedules and customer deadlines
• Monitor job progress and adjust priorities as needed
• Coordinate with engineering, production, and management on tooling needs and timelines
• Ensure efficient use of labor, machines, and materials

Technical Oversight

• Oversee the building, repair, and maintenance of dies, molds, jigs, fixtures, and tooling
• Review prints, CAD models, and job specifications for accuracy and manufacturability
• Troubleshoot tooling issues and provide hands-on support when needed
• Ensure tooling meets required tolerances and quality standards

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Inspect work in progress and completed tooling to verify quality and accuracy
• Implement and maintain shop standards, procedures, and best practices
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, reduce waste, and increase efficiency

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce all company safety policies and safe work practices
• Ensure proper use and maintenance of machines and equipment
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe shop environment

Equipment & Maintenance

• Oversee maintenance and proper operation of CNC machines, manual mills, lathes, grinders, EDM, and other shop equipment
• Coordinate repairs and preventive maintenance as needed

Administrative Duties

• Track job hours, materials, and job status
• Assist with estimating tooling time and costs
• Participate in performance evaluations and disciplinary actions when required

  Qualifications, Skills & Education Requirements:

• Journeyman Tool & Die Maker certification or equivalent experience
• 8+ years of tool & die experience, including die build and repair
• 2+ years of supervisory or lead experience in a machine shop or tool room
• Strong blueprint reading and GD&T knowledge
• Experience with CNC and manual machining processes
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

Preferred

• Experience in a small-shop or job-shop environment
• CAD/CAM experience
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience
• Leadership and team development
• Fair, consistent, and respectful when managing employees
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple jobs at once
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Hands-on leader who leads by example
• Strong sense of accountability and ownership
• Calm under pressure and solution oriented

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

• Ability to lift/push/pull weight from 10 to 50 lbs. without restrictions
• Ability to stand/walk/move for up to 10 hours
• Ability to work in dusty and dirty conditions in shop setting environment
• Must be able to perform movements such as bending, stooping, standing, and walking
• Ability to work independently and maintain a good attendance record
• Ability to work in a fact paced environment
• Exposure to moving machinery and industrial equipment
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE)