Machine Shop Supervisor
About the Company
Sazerac Company, with almost 400 years of rich history, is an independent, American family-owned company with operations in the United States and around the world. Since the 2000s, Sazerac has averaged double-digit growth every year. The company produces and markets award-winning bourbons and whiskeys, including Buffalo Trace, Pappy Van Winkle, Eagle Rare, Blanton’s, Traveller, and Sazerac Rye, as well as other popular spirits brands like Fireball, Svedka, Wheatley, BuzzBallz, Southern Comfort, Seagram’s V.O., Myers’s, Goldschläger, Parrot Bay, 99 Brand, and Platinum Vodka.
Northwest Ordinance Distilling, the newest facility in the Sazerac manufacturing network and the first in Indiana, specializes in small format production (50mL-375mL bottles) with 14 high-speed production lines producing over 13 million cases annually. The facility operates 24/7 and is founded on principles of servant leadership and continuous improvement, aiming to build the most efficient, flexible, and engaged plant and team in the Sazerac Manufacturing Network.
About the Role
This is an onsite Monday-Friday 1st shift role based at Northwest Ordinance Distilling. The Machine Shop Supervisor will manage and oversee the daily operation of the machine shop, supporting custom machinery, tooling, and change parts for complex manufacturing operations. This hands-on supervisor will perform design engineering, CAM programming, and machining while leading a team of design engineers and machinists. The role covers the full workflow from concept and design through fabrication, installation, and as-built documentation.
Responsibilities
- Perform and oversee 2D/3D CAD modeling, CNC setup, machining processes, and advanced troubleshooting to resolve technical issues.
- Ensure optimal machining strategies are implemented for efficiency and precision.
- Design and develop detailed components, fixtures, and tooling solutions by translating engineering requirements into practical, manufacturable outputs.
- Validate designs for functionality, durability, and performance.
- Review and approve technical outputs including drawings, models, and CAM programs to ensure accuracy, compliance, and manufacturability.
- Maintain high standards for documentation and process consistency.
- Develop detailed cost estimates, material requirements, and labor projections to support project planning and execution.
- Track and adjust estimates based on project scope and performance.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing shop performance metrics and identifying opportunities to enhance throughput, reduce waste, and improve overall operational effectiveness.
- Manage workloads, project costs, schedules, and quality standards to ensure safe operations, production uptime, and consistent delivery of high-quality parts and equipment.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree preferred in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Engineering Technology, Design, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience).
- 2+ years of combined experience in design engineering and CNC machining within a manufacturing or machine shop environment.
- Demonstrated experience as a hands-on machinist, design engineer, or technical lead, with prior supervisory or working-manager responsibility.
- Strong proficiency in SolidWorks (or similar), CAM programming, CNC machining workflows, and interpreting engineering drawings, GD&T, and tolerances.
- Experience with 3D scanning and reverse engineering tools (Geomagic preferred).
- Ability to develop cost estimates, material takeoffs, and labor projections.
- Strong organizational, communication, and decision-making skills, with the ability to work independently and apply mechanical aptitude to complex systems.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with multi-axis CNC machining, complex tooling strategies, and supporting custom machinery, automation, or capital equipment projects.
- Ability to apply advanced machining techniques to solve complex manufacturing challenges.
- Familiarity with document control, revision management, and engineering change processes, preferably within regulated environments such as CPG or food & beverage.
- Understanding of compliance, traceability, and standardized procedures.
- Experience implementing shop standards, training programs, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Hands-on exposure to bottling or processing equipment, including maintenance, to drive operational improvements.
Skills
- SolidWorks, SolidCAM, Geomagic, and 3D scanning technologies for design, reverse engineering, and manufacturing support.
- 2D/3D CAD modeling and CNC machining.
- Project management, including cost tracking, scheduling, and quality standards.
- Leadership and technical oversight of design engineers and machinists.
Benefits
Sazerac Company offers a comprehensive compensation and benefits package that includes:
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- 401K retirement plan.
- Paid time off.
Benefits may vary depending on location and work type.