Production Manager

Role Overview

We are seeking a proactive and skilled Production Manager with substantial expertise in woodworking and CNC fabrication to oversee our fabrication workshop. This role demands a leader capable of transforming innovative design concepts into meticulously crafted, high-quality wood products.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise precision CNC processes, advanced timber joinery, material handling, and premium surface finishing in woodworking.
• Evaluate 3D CAD models (including STEP, STL, OBJ formats) to verify structural soundness, appropriate machine clearance, tight tolerance adherence, and efficient manufacturability.
• Program, calibrate, and set up CAM software and CNC equipment, including routers and mills, accommodating various wood types and intricate shapes.
• Optional but advantageous: Operate and program 6-axis robotic arms for sophisticated timber and composite material fabrication tasks.
• Lead planning and implementation of the workshop's physical layout, including machinery placement, utility connections like power and air supply, and overall facility commissioning.
• Develop and maintain preventive maintenance and calibration protocols for all CNC machinery, power tools, and manufacturing equipment.
• Enforce comprehensive health, safety, and environmental standards, incorporating dust and fume extraction systems, PPE enforcement, and hazardous substance management.
• Design and oversee quality assurance procedures employing precision measuring instruments from raw material selection through to final surface finishing.
• Handle procurement operations by sourcing, negotiating with, and managing suppliers of specialized raw hardwoods, custom tooling, adhesives, and finishing materials.
• Maintain inventory control of machine tooling, cutter bits, spare parts, and everyday consumables to ensure continuous workshop operations.

Candidate Requirements

• Possess a bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of five years experience in production management within woodworking and CNC fabrication environments.
• Strong expertise blending craftsmanship in wood materials with multi-axis CNC programming and operational skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate and translate design intentions into high fidelity wood-based physical components.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach.
• Commitment to operational discipline, including maintenance, cleanliness, safety compliance, and process efficiency.
• Desirable but not mandatory: familiarity with robotic systems (specifically 6-axis robotic arms), metalworking, or ceramics fabrication.