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Machine Shop Operations Manager Jobs in Lockport, IL

We are seeking an experienced Panel Shop Manager to lead and oversee the daily operations of our panel fabrication department. This role is critical to ensuring the timely, high-quality delivery of ...

Leary Company is searching for a Saw Operator to support our Machine Shop and operations. This role is a key contributor to the preparation, and movement of material and machined components ...

We work with employers actively hiring experienced leaders who manage collision center operations ... Keywords: body shop manager, collision center manager, auto body manager, collision manager, body ...

Machinist

South Holland, IL

$20 - $27.50/hr

Production Supervisor/Plant Manager DEPARTMENT: Machine Shop BASIC FUNCTION: Sets up and operate ... Observes operation of various pieces of equipment and ensures operating parameters will produce ...

Entry-Level Machinist

Joliet, IL

$21 - $28.75/hr

Learn the safe operation of manual machine shop equipment, including lathes, mills, drill presses, and other equipment as assigned. * Assist with measuring, inspecting, and documenting parts under ...

The position offers hands-on training on machine operation, part inspection, and interpreting blueprints in a dynamic, high-demand job shop environment. Responsibilities * Operate CNC Star Swiss SR ...

Entry-Level Machinist

Joliet, IL ยท On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Learn the safe operation of manual machine shop equipment, including lathes, mills, drill presses, and other equipment as assigned. * Assist with measuring, inspecting, and documenting parts under ...

Entry-Level Machinist

Joliet, IL ยท On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Learn the safe operation of manual machine shop equipment, including lathes, mills, drill presses, and other equipment as assigned. * Assist with measuring, inspecting, and documenting parts under ...

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Machine Shop Operations Manager information

See Lockport, IL salary details

$36.6K

$76.6K

$119.9K

How much do machine shop operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for machine shop operations manager in Lockport, IL is $76,573.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $90,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Shop Operations Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Shop Operations Manager, you need strong expertise in machining processes, manufacturing operations, and a relevant technical degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with CNC programming, CAD/CAM software, lean manufacturing principles, and ERP systems is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and optimizing workflows. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure operational efficiency, product quality, and a safe, productive work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by a Machine Shop Operations Manager, and how can they be effectively managed?

A Machine Shop Operations Manager often faces challenges such as balancing production schedules with equipment maintenance, ensuring high product quality, and managing a diverse team of machinists and technicians. Effective communication and proactive planning are key to addressing these issues. Implementing regular training, fostering a culture of safety, and leveraging lean manufacturing principles can help streamline operations and reduce downtime. Collaboration with engineering, purchasing, and quality assurance teams is also essential for meeting production goals and adapting to changing project requirements.

What is the difference between Machine Shop Operations Manager vs Machine Shop Supervisor?

AspectMachine Shop Operations ManagerMachine Shop Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall shop operations, strategic planning, and process improvementsManages daily shop activities, supervises workers, and ensures production targets are met
CredentialsTypically requires experience in manufacturing, leadership skills, and sometimes a degree in engineering or related fieldOften requires technical skills, experience in machining, and supervisory training
Work EnvironmentOffice and shop floor, focusing on management and coordinationPrimarily on the shop floor, overseeing machining processes and staff
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing plants, machine shops, and industrial facilitiesUsed in similar environments, focusing on daily operations and team supervision

The Machine Shop Operations Manager focuses on strategic oversight and long-term planning, while the Machine Shop Supervisor handles daily operations and team management. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the manager's role is broader and more administrative.

What does a Machine Shop Operations Manager do?

A Machine Shop Operations Manager oversees the daily operations of a machine shop, ensuring that production schedules are met while maintaining quality and safety standards. They are responsible for managing staff, coordinating workflow, maintaining equipment, and implementing process improvements. This role often involves budgeting, training employees, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as the manager acts as a bridge between upper management and shop floor workers.
What job categories do people searching Machine Shop Operations Manager jobs in Lockport, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Machine Shop Operations Manager jobs in Lockport, IL are:
What cities near Lockport, IL are hiring for Machine Shop Operations Manager jobs? Cities near Lockport, IL with the most Machine Shop Operations Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Shop Operations Manager job openings in Lockport, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,573 per year, or $36.8 per hour.
Operations Manager - R.W. Machine Division Warner Industries Inc.

Operations Manager - R.W. Machine Division Warner Industries Inc.

TMA

IL โ€ข On-site

$41 - $66/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Our Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day machining activities, managing personnel, ensuring equipment readiness, and maintaining operational and quality standards. The role coordinates production teams, quality control, and customer service to ensure high safety, excellent quality, smooth workflow, and operational performance.

Responsibilities
This outlines the primary responsibilities, functional expectations, and operational duties of R&W Machines Operations Manager. This position is essential to ensuring workplace safety, high-quality output, efficient production, and strong customer satisfaction within a machining and assembly environment.

An estimated three to six (3-6) months of on the floor training within the machine shop to learn and understand machine operations for the axle line and other machine shop parts. This includes setup and operations of CNC: lathes for axle turning, milling machines for axle ends, grinders for finishing of axles and burnishing lathe.

Sometime will also be spent, on the shop floor, within the East building, Locomotive Wheel/Combo Shop & Traction Motor Shop and the North building, Welding/Cleaning/Deburring Shop.

In this role, your responsibilities will include, but may not be limited to, all three (3) R&W Machine Division Warner Industries Inc facilities, mostly in the Main building (South) for the Machine Shop:

Production Planning & Workflow Coordination:

  • Create job folders/routings in Jobboss (ERP System)
  • Plan, organize, and direct daily machining operations.
  • Create schedules ensuring efficient movement of jobs through milling, turning, grinding and inspection departments.
  • Monitor work progress, maintain deadlines, and adjust priorities as needed.
  • Minimize downtime by identifying bottlenecks and implementing corrective actions.
  • Work closely with Quality Assurance Manager to control processes and compliance with our AAR certified Quality Assurance System, M-1003 certificate, and customer specifications.
  • Along with our Quality Assurance Manager and personnel, Investigate and resolve nonconformance issues and implement preventive actions.
  • Participate in weekly production meetings.

Workforce Supervision & Development:

  • Assign daily tasks based on skills and production needs.
  • Assign training of employees in machining, equipment uses, and safety procedures.
  • Conduct performance evaluations and guide continuous improvement.
  • Promote teamwork, accountability, and a safe work environment.

Equipment & Tooling Management:

  • Oversee and work with our Maintenance group and lead personnel to maintain CNC machines, lathes, mills, grinders, and other equipment within our three (3) facilities.
  • Schedule preventive maintenance and coordinate repairs.
  • Manage tooling inventory and ensure availability of required tools.

Safety Management:

  • Enforce PPE requirements.
  • Conduct new hire orientation and maintain documentation.
  • Along with our safety team, investigate accidents or near-miss incidents and implement corrective actions.

Inventory & Cost Control:

  • Oversee raw material and consumable inventory.
  • Monitor job costing to maintain profitability (Benchmarking).
  • Manage scrap reduction and track efficiency metrics.
  • Coordinate purchasing for timely procurement.

Customer & Communication Management:

  • Serve as primary customer contact for order status and requirements.
  • Support quoting with time studies and time estimates.
  • Address urgent requests, priority changes, and special job requirements. and refine shop procedures for productivity and cost efficiency.

Future Opportunities & Tasks:

  • AutoCAD to make drawings and models for programing
  • Programing of machines currently using Smart Cam software
  • Quoting
  • Support with QA gage tracking for calibration

Experience in robotics and engineering a plus.