What are the responsibilities and job description for the Working Machine Shop Manager position at Biax-Fiberfilm?
Working Machine Shop Manager – CNC & Fabrication
Location: Appleton, WI
Company: 5k Machine & Fabrication (Parent company is Biax-Fiberfilm)
About Us
5k Machine & Fabrication is a small but dynamic machine shop with over 50 years of experience designing, patenting, and building Non-Woven equipment for our parent company, Biax-Fiberfilm. We’re known for taking on the tough jobs others avoid and delivering solutions built to last. Our culture is rooted in Quality, Service, and Customer Satisfaction, with a strong team spirit that values craftsmanship, learning, and pride in our work.
If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, lead a talented crew, and take ownership of a key operational role, we want to hear from you.
Summary of Position
We're seeking a Working Shop Manager to lead daily operations in our machine shop, where the core focus is building Non-Woven equipment. This is a hybrid leadership/hands-on role requiring a strong background in CNC machining (required) and welding (a major plus). You’ll be responsible for job scheduling, quoting, and workflow, all while supporting your team and actively participating in day-to-day tasks.
You’ll gain deep exposure to Non-Woven machinery from start to finish—including fabrication, assembly, testing, and even customer-site commissioning. The role also supports equipment already deployed globally and collaborates with our sister company, 5k Fibres, located in Neenah, WI.
Key Responsibilities
Operations & Workflow
- Oversee daily shop operations, prioritizing safety, quality, and efficiency
- Plan and coordinate new jobs: staffing, equipment prep, deadlines, inspections
- Maintain flexibility and adjust priorities as customer needs evolve
Team Leadership
- Lead, train, and motivate a small team (8–10) of skilled machinists and fabricators
- Provide coaching, delegate tasks effectively, and hold team members accountable
- Foster a collaborative, respectful shop culture
Hands-On Contributions
- Actively participate in welding, CNC machining, machine setups, and shop maintenance
- Lead by example with a “roll-up-your-sleeves” approach
- Maintain a clean, organized, and productive shop floor
Customer & Product Support
- Support new equipment builds and field-ready delivery
- Provide input for job quoting and materials planning
- Assist in ongoing support for 50 machines installed around the world
- Coordinate with 5k Fibres on shared production initiatives
Qualifications
- 10 years of experience in a machine shop environment
- Strong hands-on skills in CNC machining (VMCs, lasers, wire EDM, etc.)
- Welding experience strongly preferred
- Proven leadership experience managing or supervising shop teams
- Ability to read blueprints and technical drawings
- Excellent problem-solving and organizational skills
- Physically capable of lifting, moving equipment, and working on the floor
- Self-motivated and adaptable in a fast-paced environment
What We Offer
- Competitive salary (commensurate with experience)
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Stable, long-term career opportunity in a growing niche industry
- Autonomy and trust—your input shapes shop processes and outcomes
- Opportunity to be part of both 5k Machine & Fabrication and 5k Fibres' ongoing success
Work Environment & Schedule
This is a full-time, on-site leadership position based in Appleton, WI.
- Standard hours: Monday–Friday
- Majority of time on the shop floor, with some desk time for planning and quoting
- Occasional flexibility needed based on job deadlines or customer needs
How to Apply
Ready to take the lead and make an impact? Submit your resume and a brief note about why this role excites you to dbrown@5kfibres.com.