Shop Manager
Location: Grand Junction, CO. On-site (no remote option)
Position Type: Full-Time. Salary (minimum 40+ hours/week)
Pay range: $85,000-115,000/year (depending on experience)
Position Overview
We are seeking a driven and accountable Shop Manager to lead and continuously improve our manufacturing operations. This role requires a leader who is committed not just to managing production, but to building systems, improving efficiency, and contributing to the long-term direction of the company.
The ideal candidate brings both shop floor leadership and strong administrative discipline, understanding that production success depends on execution, structure, and data-driven decision-making.
Key Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years in a production/manufacturing management role
- Experience leading teams and managing production workflows
- Strong background in production scheduling, inventory control, and cost management
- Proven ability to develop systems, processes, and SOPs
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and email
- Demonstrated success implementing process improvements and driving measurable results
- Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting experience in a manufacturing environment preferred
- Experience managing departmental budgets and controlling operational costs preferred
- Must be able to work on-site (no remote option)
Core Responsibilities
- Lead hiring, training, scheduling, performance management, and development of production staff
- Plan and manage production schedules to meet demand and maximize efficiency
- Collaborate with sales to align production with forecasting and market needs
- Ensure compliance with all company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements
- Develop and manage BOMs, WOs, POs, inventory systems, and documentation
- Maintain and improve SOPs, workflows, and production systems
- Monitor inventory levels, purchasing, and vendor relationships
- Drive employee engagement, accountability, and professional development within the production team
- Develop succession plans and cross-training programs to strengthen organizational stability and workforce flexibility
- Track and analyze performance metrics; present reports to management
- Identify inefficiencies and implement cost-saving and process improvements
- Lead Lean Manufacturing initiatives
- Maintain accurate product costing and quality control standards
- Track and manage equipment maintenance schedules and breakdown reporting
- Assist with diagnosing and repairing machinery when needed
- Step into production as needed to support operations
What We’re Looking For
- A leader who takes ownership of both results and accountability
- Strong business acumen with the ability to balance operational demands, quality standards, and financial objectives
- A systems thinker who proactively identifies opportunities for improvement
- Ability to make decisions confidently in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
- Strong coaching and team-development skills
- A professional who can build trust, establish accountability, and create a culture of continuous improvement
- Effective communicator capable of working with production staff, vendors, customers, and company leadership
What Sets This Role Apart
- Opportunity to build and improve systems, not just manage them
- Direct impact on company performance and direction
- Leadership role requiring both execution and strategic thinking
This position is ideal for someone who wants more than a job—someone who wants to contribute to a growing company, drive meaningful improvements, and take pride in operational excellence.
Application Requirements:
To be considered for this position, applicants must submit a cover letter that includes:
- Examples of previous work experience directly related to the core responsibilities outlines in this position
- An explanation of why you are interested in joining XLR and a brief description of your management approach
- A summary of why you believe you are qualified for this role and how your background aligns with the responsibilities and expectations outlines in this posting. Applications submitted without a cover letter addressing these items may not be considered.