What are the responsibilities and job description for the Production Supervisor - Manufacturing position at Midwest Tool and Cutlery?
We are looking for a hands-on 1st Shift Production Supervisor. We are Michigan-based manufacturer. This candidate will lead CNC and blade processing operations, work directly on the shop floor, and coach operators to meet safety, quality, and production goals. Competitive pay, strong benefits, and long-term stability in a non-union environment.
Location: Sturgis, MI
Department: Blade Processing
Reports To: Operations Director
Shift: 1st Shift
Job Overview
Midwest Tool is hiring a hands-on Production Supervisor to lead daily shop-floor operations in our Blade Processing department on 1st shift. This role is ideal for a working supervisor who enjoys being on the floor, troubleshooting equipment, coaching operators, and keeping production moving safely and efficiently.
Supervisors at Midwest Tool are expected to produce safe, quality tools efficiently — in that order. This position oversees Counterbore, Tap, Edge Set, and Grinding operations. It requires strong mechanical aptitude, solid leadership skills, and the ability to flex labor based on production needs.
What You’ll Do (Day-to-Day)
- Lead and support operators directly on the shop floor to meet safety, quality, and production goals
- Oversee aviation blade processing operations including:
- CNC Haas mills and drilling equipment (Tap/Counterbore)
- Edge Set machinery
- Heat Treat processing
- Vibe & Tumble operations
- Troubleshoot basic machine, tooling, and process issues to minimize downtime
- Assign and reassign labor daily based on schedules, workloads, and skill sets
- Conduct hourly safety and production check-ins with operators
- Maintain and update production awareness boards and visual management tools
- Run daily morning stand-up meetings covering production priorities, safety topics, and company updates
- Train and coach new employees using established procedures
- Monitor and verify employee production data throughout the shift and at shift end
- Track, develop, and report key production KPIs
- Enforce company policies, safety rules, quality standards, and work instructions
- Work closely with other supervisors and departments to meet overall plant goals
What We’re Looking For
- A shop-floor leader who leads by example and isn’t afraid to jump in when needed
- Strong mechanical and manufacturing background
- Ability to communicate clearly with operators, leadership, and support teams
- A problem-solver who uses data and KPIs to drive decisions
- Someone comfortable moving people, adjusting plans, and keeping production on track
- A leader who values safety, accountability, and employee development
Qualifications
- 5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment
- 5 years of supervisory or people-leadership experience
- 2 years of CNC setup and operating experience
- Associate degree in a manufacturing field
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word
- Experience using production boards, metrics, or visual management systems
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
Physical Requirements
- Stand and walk for extended periods on the shop floor
- Regularly lift up to 25 lbs; occasionally up to 50 lbs
- Good hand and finger dexterity
- Ability to reach above shoulder height
Why Midwest Tool?
Midwest Tool is a Michigan-based manufacturer where supervisors play a key role on the shop floor — not behind a desk. If you’re looking for a stable 1st shift leadership role where your mechanical skills and leadership matter every day, we’d like to talk with you.
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person