About the Opportunity
An established and respected design, fabrication, and production company is expanding its operations into Victoria and is seeking an experienced Workshop Manager to establish and lead a new workshop facility in the Southeastern Melbourne (Kingston) area.
This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of a brand-new, purpose-built workshop, overseeing daily production, building a local team, and ensuring all fabrication, assembly, and finishing work is delivered to exceptional standards.
You'll work closely with the Sydney head office and operations team to align production schedules, manage resources, and maintain consistency in quality and performance across both locations.
 
Key Responsibilities
Workshop Operations & Scheduling

• Manage day-to-day workflow within the workshop, ensuring deadlines and priorities are met.
• Coordinate job allocation, staff rosters, and material planning to maximise productivity.
• Liaise with interstate operations and project managers to align workload and scheduling.
• Ensure smooth, efficient production runs with minimal downtime and rework.
• Take a hands-on role in the workshop and onsite when required.

Team Leadership & Supervision

• Lead and mentor a small team of tradespeople, contractors, and apprentices.
• Provide clear direction, technical guidance, and training.
• Conduct daily toolbox meetings and foster strong communication across the team.
• Build a collaborative, high-performing, and safety-focused workshop culture.

Quality Control & Standards

• Review and interpret technical drawings to confirm production feasibility.
• Conduct detailed quality checks on joinery, fabrication, and finishing before dispatch.
• Maintain consistent craftsmanship and ensure work meets client and design specifications.
• Work closely with design and project teams to troubleshoot technical challenges.

Safety & Compliance

• Implement and uphold WHS standards across all workshop activities.
• Conduct regular inspections of machinery, tools, and work areas.
• Maintain a clean, organised, and compliant production environment.

Equipment & Materials Management

• Oversee maintenance and servicing of CNC machines, woodworking tools, and production equipment.
• Manage stock levels, material usage, and supplier relationships.
• Monitor waste reduction, cost control, and process optimisation.

Continuous Improvement

• Drive efficiency and quality improvement initiatives.
• Recommend upgrades to systems, workflows, and fabrication methods.
• Support innovation in materials, processes, and production technology.

 
Skills, Experience & Qualifications:

• Trade qualification in Cabinetmaking, Joinery, Shopfitting, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in a workshop or production management role within joinery, exhibitions, or commercial fit-out environments.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate teams in a manufacturing or fabrication setting.
• Strong technical understanding of joinery production, CNC machining, assembly, and finishing processes.

Core Competencies:

• Effective leadership and communication skills.
• Excellent ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
• Strong organisational and scheduling capability.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Proficient in MS Office and production or scheduling software.
• Sound understanding of WHS and safe workshop operations.

 
Work Environment & Conditions

• Based in a newly established workshop in Melbourne's south-east (Kingston region).
• Standard working hours with occasional overtime or weekend work during peak periods.
• Active, hands-on workshop environment — PPE and safe work practices required.
• Close collaboration with the Sydney-based operations and project management team.

 
What's on Offer

• $110K to $160K +Super Depending on Experience
• Opportunity to lead and shape a brand-new workshop operation.
• Be part of a growing, design-driven business known for craftsmanship and quality.
• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
• Long-term role with potential for career growth as the Melbourne operation expands.

 
Apply Now
Click APPLY to submit your CV. For a confidential discussion, contact: Mathew Clemans on [[email protected]]