Shop Manager

 

Position Summary

The Shop Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of DiCAN's shop and warehouse while leading a small team of warehouse staff and remaining actively involved in product assembly and technical work.

This hands-on leadership role ensures products are assembled efficiently, inventory is managed effectively, and shop processes support the needs of the business. The Shop Manager plays a critical role in balancing inventory levels, maintaining production timelines, and creating an organized, productive, and collaborative work environment.

The Shop Manager works closely with Operations, Scheduling, and Service teams to prioritize work, improve processes, and support the continued growth and operational excellence of the business.

Key Responsibilities 

Production & Technical Support

• Participate in product assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and repair activities as required.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and assembly instructions.
• Support electrical assembly, wiring, soldering, and product testing activities.
• Provide technical guidance and support to shop staff.
• Assist with resolving production issues and identifying opportunities to improve quality and efficiency.
• Ensure products meet DiCAN's quality standards and customer expectations.

Leadership

• Provide day-to-day leadership and coaching to shop employees.
• Conduct performance management and support employee development.
•          Foster accountability, teamwork, and a positive, solutions-focused culture.
•          Assist with onboarding and training new team members.
•          Support workforce planning and identify opportunities to improve team capabilities.
•          Create an environment where team members feel supported, productive, and successful in their roles.
•         Adapt leadership style to effectively coach and work with different personalities and experience levels.

Operational Oversight

• Oversee inventory management and inventory accuracy.
• Coordinate shop priorities with Operations and Service teams.
• Ensure work is completed efficiently and in alignment with business priorities and timelines.
•          Monitor workflow and proactively identify bottlenecks or resource constraints.
•          Develop, document, and maintain shop processes and standard operating procedures.
•          Identify and implement process improvements and operational efficiencies.
•          Support the development and tracking of shop KPIs and performance metrics.
•          Maintain accurate records and reporting related to inventory, production, and shop activities.
• Establish and maintain inventory reorder points and appropriate stock levels to support operational requirements while minimizing excess inventory.
• Monitor inventory trends and proactively identify risks related to stock shortages, lead times, and cash flow.
• Support purchasing activities by communicating inventory requirements, vendor concerns, and procurement recommendations to leadership.

Quality & Safety

•          Ensure quality standards and assembly procedures are consistently followed.
•          Maintain a safe, organized, and productive shop environment.
•          Ensure tools, equipment, and workspaces are properly maintained.
•          Investigate and resolve quality concerns and implement corrective actions where necessary.
•          Promote and support a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Operations, Service, and Scheduling teams to align priorities and support customer needs.
• Communicate inventory concerns, production delays, or resource constraints proactively.
• Build positive relationships with vendors and support materials planning and procurement activities as required.
• Contribute to strategic discussions regarding shop capacity, process improvements, and operational growth.

Qualifications & Experience

•          Minimum 5 years of experience in a warehouse, production, manufacturing, assembly, or technical shop environment.
•          Previous leadership or supervisory experience leading small teams.
•          Demonstrated experience balancing production timelines, inventory requirements, and operational priorities.
•          Strong understanding of inventory management, inventory control practices, and material planning.
•          Experience establishing inventory reorder points and maintaining appropriate stock levels.
•          Hands-on experience with electrical assembly, electronics, low-voltage systems, wiring, and troubleshooting.
•          Experience with ERP, inventory management, or production tracking systems.
•          Strong organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
•          Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to coach and develop team members.
•          Proficient with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.

 

What Success Looks Like

• Products are assembled and delivered on time with minimal disruptions.
• Inventory levels are well managed, balancing operational needs and cash flow requirements.
• Stock shortages and emergency purchases are minimized.
• Shop processes are organized, efficient, and continuously improving.
• Team members feel supported, productive, and clear on priorities and expectations.
• Quality standards are maintained, and issues are identified and addressed proactively.
• Communication between the shop and other departments is timely, collaborative, and solutions-focused.