Finishing Manager Operations Lead - Tonia Deal Talent Acquisition Inc.
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
About the Job
The Finish Manager
Responsibilities
o Supervise and lead a team of cabinet finishers, providing training, guidance, and performance feedback.
o Schedule workload, monitor attendance, and manage time to ensure adequate staffing for all finishing projects.
o Foster a positive and productive work environment that emphasizes teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement.
o Create and track key performance metrics and goals to measure productivity, quality, and overall performance.
o Oversee performance management and implementing discipline as needed in coordination with HR.
o Oversee the finishing process to ensure all cabinets meet quality standards, including color consistency, texture, and durability.
o Implement quality control measures and inspect finished products for defects or inconsistencies.
o Identify areas of improvement and address quality issues proactively, working with the team to resolve problems and prevent future occurrences.
o Develop, optimize, and implement standardized procedures (SOPS’s), finishing processes, selecting appropriate materials, techniques, and tools to enhance efficiency and quality.
o Coordinate with the production to align finishing schedules with project timelines.
o Manage inventory of finishing supplies and ensure equipment is properly maintained.
o Ensure compliance with safety regulations and promote safe working practices in the finishing department.
o Oversee the handling and disposal of finishing chemicals in accordance with environmental regulations.
o Keep up with changes in safety standards and ensure the team is trained on all relevant safety protocols.
o Track finishing performance metrics and implement process improvements to increase productivity and reduce waste.
o Stay informed about industry trends, emerging finishing techniques, and new materials to enhance the department’s capabilities.
o Develop and implement training programs for staff to improve skills and knowledge in cabinet finishing.
o Communicate and recommend to management finishing area quality improvements and production efficiency.
o Lead training and staff development initiatives to ensure the team is skilled and knowledgeable.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Experience: Minimum of 2 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
Skills: In-depth knowledge of finishing techniques (e.g., staining, painting, varnishing), strong leadership and organizational skills, and proficiency in troubleshooting finishing equipment.
Knowledge: Understanding of wood materials and finishes, color matching, and chemical safety standards, paint and staining systems best practices.
Strongly Preferred Qualifications:
· Experience in high-end wood finishing such as cabinets, flooring, furniture, or millwork.
· Background in lean manufacturing or continuous improvement methodologies.
· Experience working with automated finishing equipment.
· Certification in chemical handling or related areas.
Personal Attributes:
· Detail-oriented and committed to quality excellence.
· Strong communicator who can effectively coordinate with multiple departments.
· Proactive problem-solver with a focus on process improvement and team development.
BS degree, preferably in Chemical Engineering or Business Management or relevant work experience with a track record of technical and critical thinking capability.
· 5+ years management experience working in cabinet or furniture finishing
Experience with lean manufacturing tools; Six Sigma, Kaizen, root cause analysis, Kanban, etc.
· Experience working in Microsoft Office applications and ERP system
· Excellent communication, organizational, and leaderships skills
· Proficient knowledge of coating application tools
Working Relationships
Communication is required across all levels of the organization – executive team, other functional leaders, subordinates, production floor workers, sales team, customers, and suppliers.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER