Pattern Shop Supervisor

About the role

Steinway & Sons is seeking a Pattern Shop Supervisor to oversee a team in our piano manufacturing plant located in Astoria, Queens. This role leads all pattern-making operations that support the manufacturing of high-quality pianos, including the design, fabrication, maintenance, and storage of production patterns, templates, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and tooling used throughout woodworking and piano assembly processes. The supervisor ensures pattern shop output meets engineering specifications, supports efficient manufacturing, and maintains the precision required for premium piano production, including standard production models and highly customized, bespoke instruments.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily activities within the Pattern Shop to ensure timely completion of tooling and pattern requirements.
• Manage the fabrication, repair, modification, and maintenance of production patterns, templates, tooling, and fixtures.
• Ensure patterns are produced accurately according to engineering drawings, CAD models, and manufacturing specifications.
• Coordinate priorities with Engineering, Product Development, Wood Shop, and Production departments.
• Train, mentor, and develop Pattern Shop personnel, preserving traditional woodworking and cabinetmaking techniques unique to Steinway.
• Develop and maintain tooling (patterns, templates, jigs, fixtures, gauges) used in the production of piano components.
• Support new product development and design change implementation.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing issues related to tooling accuracy and pattern performance.
• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and design specifications.
• Provide tooling recommendations that improve manufacturability and efficiency.
• Assist with prototype development, testing, and validation.
• Support the production of custom, bespoke Steinway pianos through the fabrication of unique components.
• Collaborate with engineering and designers to develop specialty tooling for custom and limited-edition pianos.
• Develop prototype patterns and fixtures for one-of-a-kind instruments.
• Ensure customized designs can be manufactured while maintaining structural integrity, acoustic performance, and quality standards.
• Verify and maintain dimensional accuracy and functionality of all patterns, templates, and fixtures.
• Work closely with Quality Assurance and Engineering teams to resolve production issues.
• Maintain documentation and revision control of all pattern shop tooling.
• Maintain a safe and organized work environment.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety policies.
• Conduct safety training and routine workplace inspections.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical degree, apprenticeship, or certification in Pattern Making, Tool & Die, Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Technology, or related field a plus.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in pattern making, tooling, woodworking, or manufacturing operations.
• Minimum 2 years of supervisory or team leadership experience.
• Experience in musical instrument manufacturing, cabinetry, furniture manufacturing, or precision woodworking preferred.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership abilities.
• Knowledge of woodworking materials and manufacturing methods used in piano, furniture, or general woodworking production.
• Strong understanding of pattern making, tooling design, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical specifications.
• Experience with CNC machining and CAD/CAM software.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and manufacturing systems.
• Union environment experience a plus.

Pay

The base salary range for this role is $90,000–$100,000. Compensation will vary based on a combination of skills and experience.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
• Generous 401k contribution.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Professional development opportunities.