Shop Supervisor

Company Description

Railway Equipment Company is a manufacturer of high-quality Gas Hot Air Blowers, Crossing Gate Arms, Battery Chargers, and Remote Asset Monitoring & Control Systems for railways and transits. We are dedicated solely to this business and no other.

Role Description

The Shop Supervisor is responsible for overseeing daily operations across two separate production shops at The Railway Equipment Company (RECO). This leadership role ensures safe, efficient, high-quality manufacturing of railroad signal and communication equipment, including switch heaters, battery chargers, lights, monitoring systems, and related products. The supervisor will manage teams in both Gaylord and Delano locations, drive productivity, maintain consistent quality standards, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

· Lead, supervise, and coordinate all production activities across two manufacturing shops, ensuring both locations operate efficiently and cohesively.

· Manage and develop two shop teams, including technicians and assemblers.

· Plan, schedule, and assign work orders across both shops to meet production targets, on-time delivery, and customer requirements.

· Enforce safety policies in both facilities; conduct regular safety training, audits, and meetings to maintain a zero-incident environment.

· Monitor product quality and workmanship across both shops, working closely with the Quality Engineer to resolve issues and prevent defects.

· Track key performance indicators (KPIs) for both shops including output, efficiency, scrap rate, labor absorption, and on-time delivery.

· Train, coach, mentor, and evaluate employees in both shops; conduct performance reviews and address performance or disciplinary matters.

· Collaborate with Engineering, Purchasing, and Sales teams to resolve production challenges and implement process improvements.

· Oversee maintenance of equipment, tooling, and facility needs in both shops.

· Ensure consistent processes, documentation, and standards are followed across both locations.

· Prepare regular reports on shop performance and escalate issues to the Plant Manager as needed.

· Promote a positive, accountable, and continuous-improvement culture across both teams.

Required Qualifications:

· High school diploma or GED required

· 5+ years of hands-on experience in a manufacturing or machine shop environment.

· 2+ years of supervisory or lead experience, preferably managing multiple teams or locations.

· Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes (machining, assembly, electrical wiring, testing, and fabrication).

· Experience in the railroad industry or with similar technical products is a plus.

· Ability to read technical drawings.

· Proficient with ERP systems (M1 experience strongly preferred), Microsoft Office Suite, and shop math.

· Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to travel between the two shop locations as needed (Gaylord/Delano, MN).