Machine Shop Production Manager

Nichols Manufacturing / The Gun Company is looking for an experienced, hands-on Machine Shop Production Manager to lead day-to-day manufacturing operations, keep production moving, and help maintain the high standards our work demands.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and understands how to balance production flow, scheduling, people leadership, quality expectations, and continuous improvement. We are looking for someone who is organized, decisive, mechanically minded, and committed to accountability, efficiency, and doing the job right.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily production operations across machining, assembly, finishing, and related manufacturing workflows
• Build and manage production schedules to meet deadlines, delivery commitments, and customer expectations
• Coordinate labor, equipment, materials, and workflow to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime
• Partner with ownership, quality, purchasing, and other team members to ensure smooth production flow from job release through completion
• Monitor work in process, bottlenecks, capacity, and output to keep jobs on track
• Lead, coach, and hold production personnel accountable for performance, quality, safety, and attendance
• Maintain a clean, organized, and disciplined shop environment
• Help develop and improve standard operating procedures, work instructions, and production systems
• Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement efforts
• Ensure compliance with company quality standards, documentation requirements, and regulated manufacturing processes
• Work closely with quality control to resolve nonconformances, reduce rework, and improve consistency
• Track production metrics and provide updates on throughput, priorities, and problem areas
• Assist in hiring, training, and developing shop personnel as needed

Qualifications:

• Strong manufacturing leadership experience in a machine shop, precision manufacturing, aerospace, defense, firearms, or similarly regulated production environment
• Strong understanding of production scheduling, workflow management, and shop floor operations
• Experience leading teams in a deadline-driven manufacturing setting
• Knowledge of machining, mechanical assemblies, and production processes
• Familiarity with quality systems, process discipline, and documentation standards
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to make sound decisions quickly
• Comfortable working closely with ownership and cross-functional teams
• High attention to detail, urgency, and accountability
• Proficient with production tracking, ERP/MRP systems, spreadsheets, or similar operational tools
• Ability to identify inefficiencies and implement practical process improvements

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5 years of manufacturing leadership experience preferred
• Experience in an ISO 9001 / AS9100 environment
• Familiarity with ITAR-regulated manufacturing
• Experience with aerospace, defense, OEM components, or firearms-related manufacturing
• Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience
• Strong understanding of shop scheduling, capacity planning, and on-time delivery management

What Success Looks Like in This Role:

• Production runs on schedule with clear priorities and strong communication
• Quality issues, delays, and bottlenecks are addressed proactively
• Team members understand expectations and are held to a high standard
• Workflow becomes more efficient, organized, and scalable
• The shop operates with discipline, urgency, and pride in workmanship

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive pay based on experience
• Opportunities for long-term growth
• Work with a company built on decades of manufacturing excellence
• Be part of a team that values quality, accountability, and getting the job done right

Schedule:

• Full-time
• In person
• Monday through Friday
• Typical schedule is 50 hours per week

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and a brief note outlining your relevant manufacturing and leadership experience.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: Up to $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Health savings account

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

• Machine operation: 5 years (Preferred)
• Production planning: 5 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $30