Workshop Supervisor

The Workshop Supervisor is fully accountable for all day-to-day manufacturing operations in the Melbourne tiny-home production facility. The role oversees three specialised production teams (Trailers & Framing, Fit-Out, and Finishings) to ensure tiny homes are built on time, to specification, to the highest quality standards, and in full compliance with safety, environmental and other obligations. This is a hands-on leadership position that combines hands on carpentry work, production planning, people management, continuous improvement, and strict adherence to budget, schedule and WHS requirements. Key Responsibilities Production Planning & Delivery Develop and maintain the master production schedule in consultation with sales, design and delivery teams. Set weekly and daily targets for each tradesman and monitor performance in daily production meetings. Ensure on-time, on-spec completion of every unit from trailer fabrication through to final dispatch. Identify bottlenecks, implement solutions and drive continuous improvement in throughput and efficiency. Directly supervise, coach and performance-manage all trades. Oversee recruitment, onboarding, training and succession planning for all workshop personnel. Conduct regular toolbox talks, skills assessments and individual development plans. Foster a positive, respectful and high-performing culture. Quality Assurance Implement and enforce company quality systems, inspection checklists and rework-reduction programs. Conduct final pre-dispatch inspections and sign off on completed units. Investigate customer complaints or warranty issues arising from manufacturing defects and implement corrective actions. Work Health & Safety (Primary Duty Holder for the workshop) Ensure full compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act, Codes of Practice and company policies. Maintain current safety systems, risk assessments, SWMS and emergency procedures. Lead incident investigations and drive reduction in LTIs, MTIs and near-misses. Coordinate return-to-work programs and maintain safety records for audits. Lease & Site Compliance Ensure all workshop activities (including external storage and waste management) strictly comply with the premises lease, especially in relation to Common Areas, parking bays and external presentation. Ensure materials, partly-built units and equipment stored outside do not encroach on common property. Maintain daily clean-up routines so the site is tidy and professional at all times. Act as primary liaison with the landlord/property manager on facility-related matters. Oversee purchasing and stock levels of core materials, paint, consumables and fittings in conjunction with all Workshop Staff. Monitor and control direct labour efficiency and material usage variances. Prepare weekly production reports, KPIs and commentary for senior management. Contribute to annual budgeting and monthly forecasting. Maintenance & Capital Items Manage preventative maintenance schedules for all workshop plant and equipment (spray booths, dust extraction, forklifts, etc.). Coordinate repairs and ensure safe operation at all times. Key Selection Criteria Minimum 5 years’ hands-on experience in modular/prefabricated construction or similar high-volume manufacturing environment. Proven track record in a Workshop Supervisor, Production Supervisor or Senior Foreman role supervising 10+ tradespeople. Strong understanding of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement. Demonstrated ability to read and interpret complex engineering and architectural drawings. Current Manual Driver’s Licence. Excellent leadership, communication and conflict-resolution skills. Intermediate to advanced skills in Microsoft Office and ERP/MRP systems. Highly Regarded Experience specifically in tiny home, caravan, or transportable building manufacturing. Formal qualifications in Frontline Management, WHS or Lean/Six Sigma. Performance Measures (KPIs) 100% on-time delivery to committed dispatch dates. Units built to specification with rework < 2% of direct labour hours. Zero lost-time injuries and safety audit scores > 95%. Direct labour productivity and material yield within ±5% of budget. Clean, compliant external areas with no lease breaches or complaints. Positive employee engagement survey results and low unplanned absenteeism. This role is critical to Wheelie Rooms’ continued growth and reputation for delivering the highest-quality tiny homes in Australia. #J-18808-Ljbffr