Shop Manager

Are you ready to join an innovative team that pushes the boundaries of creativity and delivers top-notch results? At Aardvark Studios, we thrive in a multitude of creative landscapes. Simply calling us a "Creative Fabrication Company" or an "Experiential Marketing Company" doesn't capture the full scope of what we do. We are a dynamic design, build, and technology studio serving the experiential marketing and location-based entertainment industries and constantly evolving with each and every unique project. We are looking for a Shop Manager to join the team! As a Shop Manager with Aardvark Studios, you'll lead the charge with hands-on leadership, driving quality, safety, and efficiency across our fabrication operations. You'll oversee the day-to-day workflow, support and develop our skilled makers, and ensure that every build leaving the shop meets the highest standards — on time and on budget. This is a hands-on leadership role reporting to the Chief Operating Officer. The Shop Manager will work closely with project management, design engineering, and quality control to ensure builds are executed safely, efficiently, and to Aardvark's high standards.QUALIFICATIONSWhat makes you the ideal candidate: 5+ years of proven experience as a Shop Foreman, Production Lead, or similar fabrication leadership roleDemonstrated success managing teams in a fast-paced, custom fabrication or production environmentStrong understanding of woodworking, metal fabrication, CNC operations, and specialty fabrication techniquesPreferred software familiarity and digital geometry manipulation(Smartsheet, Google Suite, Rhino,)Knowledge of Lean/5S principles and process standardizationForklift/MEWP certification and training experience Requirements or what else is helpful: Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and mentor a diverse teamProven track record of delivering projects on time, within budget, and at the highest qualityPhysical stamina and the ability to lift heavy materials safelyStrong organizational skills with a focus on cleanliness, workflow, and continuous improvementACCOUNTABILITIES Hire, manage, and develop fabrication team members across wood, CNC, metal, and specialty disciplinesLead daily shop huddles and ensure clear team alignment and communicationImplement lean initiatives and continuous improvement practicesManage all aspects of shop safety and complianceMaintain shop cleanliness, organization, and readiness for daily operationsOversee equipment repair, maintenance, and usageEnsure production quality standards are met while minimizing reworkCollaborate closely with Design Engineering, Project Management, and Production teams to meet deadlines and budget goalsSet the shop up at the end of each day to ensure smooth operations the following morningOversight of training and skill development, which supports your lean initiatives and safety goals How we'll measure success: Projects consistently delivered on time and within budgetLabor utilization consistently met above 90%Zero safety incidents in the shop with proactive hazard reportingLabor hours under budget for projectsHigh team morale, strong communication, and low rework rates What we offer: Highly competitive base salary commensurate with experiencePaid time offMedical/dental/vision benefitsShort & long-term disability optionsRetirement matching after 1 yearOn-site private-use gymFree Tesla charging Dog-friendly workspace Check us out on social here and here