What are the responsibilities and job description for the Custom Shop Manager position at Cullen Construction?
Overview:
Cullen Construction is a third generation company started in 1953 by Edward E. Cullen. Built from a foundation committed to integrity and excellence, today's Cullen Construction continues this legacy of high quality building standards by combining professional project management and field supervision with strong administrative and design support.
Today, Cullen Construction maintains the highest standards by employing the finest and most dedicated craftsmen, designers and support staff. Our team members and subcontractors are committed to an outstanding level of detail throughout every phase of construction; from initial designs to the final walk-through. Cullen’s carpenters and craftsmen have over 100 years of experience in residential building and fine carpentry to help bring your project to life.
Position:
We are seeking a passionate and experienced Custom Shop Manager to lead our expanding cabinet and millwork operations. This is an exciting opportunity to shape and grow a high-performing custom shop that produces exceptional cabinetry and millwork for luxury residential projects.
In this hands-on leadership role, you’ll oversee every stage of production—from design collaboration and fabrication to installation and quality assurance. You’ll implement efficient processes, ensure that every finished piece reflects the precision and quality Cullen Construction is known for, and you will mentor a skilled team of craftsmen.
When cabinetry projects are not in production, you’ll play a key role supporting our project management, warranty, and service teams across various phases of construction and remodeling. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment, takes pride in fine craftsmanship, and is eager to help drive the continued growth of our custom millwork division.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Lead and oversee daily operations of the cabinet shop, including production scheduling, quality control, and workflow management.
- Manufacture and install custom cabinets, built-ins, and millwork to meet project specifications and Cullen Construction’s high standards of craftsmanship.
- Collaborate with designers, project managers, and site supervisors to ensure design intent, materials, and installation details are properly executed.
- Develop and implement best practices for shop organization, safety, and efficiency.
- Train, mentor, and supervise cabinetmakers and apprentices as the cabinetry business grows.
- Manage materials procurement, inventory, and equipment maintenance for the shop.
- Support the warranty and service teams on repair, refinishing, or modification work as needed between cabinet projects.
- Assist field teams with carpentry and finish work on residential construction sites when required.
- Partner with company leadership to help grow the cabinetmaking division, contributing ideas for systems, staffing, and business development.
- Uphold Cullen Construction’s reputation for exceptional quality, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Advanced knowledge of cabinetmaking, woodworking techniques, and fine carpentry.
- Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to train and mentor others.
- Experience overseeing shop operations, including workflow, scheduling, and quality assurance.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, technical drawings, and design specifications.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and adaptability in both shop and field environments.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills with designers, project managers, and field staff.
- High attention to detail and commitment to maintaining luxury-level craftsmanship.
- Organizational and time management skills to balance multiple responsibilities.
- Dedication to safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
Experience Requirements:
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in cabinetmaking, millwork, or fine carpentry, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
- Formal training, trade school, or apprenticeship in woodworking or cabinetmaking preferred.
- Experience in high-end residential or custom cabinetry environments strongly preferred.
- Familiarity with residential construction processes and coordination across project teams.
