Machine Shop Manager Jobs in Rantoul, IL (NOW HIRING)

Position Title: Shop Foreperson / Supervisor

Department: Shop - Illinois

Reports To: Midwest Shop Manager

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Compensation: $26 - $32 / hour

Position Summary:

The Foreperson - Shop oversees the daily operations of the Illinois shop in support of Bailey Nurseries’ agricultural and nursery production operations. This role helps ensure equipment, vehicles, and shop resources are maintained, repaired, and ready to support the needs of a fast-paced, seasonal growing environment. The Foreperson - Shop supervises shop personnel, coordinates equipment repairs and preventative maintenance, manages shop inventory and supplies, and works closely with the Midwest Shop Manager and Midwest Container Manager to support safe, efficient, and reliable operations. This position plays an important role in maintaining productivity, equipment readiness, and high-quality shop standards for a family-owned company with a long history in the green industry.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
• Oversee daily shop operations, workflow, and priorities.
• Diagnose, rebuild, modify, and repair equipment, please l,
• Perform equipment inspections and preventative maintenance.
• Repair hydraulic systems and operate shop tools and diagnostic equipment.
• Manage the equipment fleet and recommend equipment removal or replacement.
• Supervise shop staff and provide direction on daily priorities.
• Prioritize work based on urgency, deadlines, and operational needs.
• Maintain records for repairs, maintenance, inventory, and equipment status.
• Assist with purchasing equipment, parts, and shop supplies.
• Conduct quality control checks on completed work.
• Maintain safe work habits and support OSHA and company policy compliance.
• Keep the shop and work areas clean, organized, and safe.
• Build effective working relationships with co-workers, managers, and vendors.
• Communicate equipment needs, repair status, timelines, and concerns.
• Identify and implement process improvements.
• Work extra hours as needed to meet operational demands.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a shop, manufacturing, maintenance, equipment repair, or related environment.
• Strong knowledge of equipment diagnostics, repair, maintenance, and modification.
• Experience using shop tools, machines, and diagnostic equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, blueprints, schematics, or equipment documentation.
• Strong leadership, communication, problem-solving, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks effectively and respond to changing operational needs.
• Knowledge of workplace safety regulations, safe work practices, and shop safety expectations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, managers, and vendors.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet company driving requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Additional technical training or certification in equipment repair, maintenance, welding, hydraulics, mechanics, or a related field.
• Supervisory or lead experience in a shop, maintenance, manufacturing, agricultural, or nursery.
• Knowledge of metals and welding techniques.
• Experience managing equipment inventory, repair records, parts, supplies, or vendor relationships.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

This position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and crouching. The employee must regularly lift, carry, push, or pull objects up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds with assistance. Work is performed both indoors and outdoors, with exposure to weather conditions such as heat, cold, rain, and wind. PPE may be required in certain work areas.

Disclaimer: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. This description does not constitute a contract of employment, and the company reserves the right to revise or change job functions as needed to meet business needs. Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check

Bailey Nurseries is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

Employment with Bailey Nurseries is at-will and may be terminated at any time by either party, in accordance with applicable law.

If you need assistance or reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our HR team.

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