Foundry Molding Supervisor

Position Overview

The Molding Supervisor is responsible for overseeing all molding and core making operations, ensuring production targets are met while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. This role involves leading and developing the molding team, managing daily production schedules, implementing process improvements, and serving as the primary point of contact between molding operations and upper management. The Supervisor is accountable for workforce planning, performance management, safety compliance, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the molding department.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

- Supervise, coach, and develop Molding Leadmen and molding team members

- Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing feedback to direct reports

- Make staffing decisions including hiring recommendations, discipline, and terminations

- Schedule and coordinate workforce to meet production demands and manage overtime

- Lead daily production meetings and communicate priorities across shifts

- Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment focused on collaboration and accountability

Production Operations

- Plan and coordinate daily production schedules to meet customer delivery requirements

- Monitor production output, efficiency metrics, and quality standards

- Allocate resources effectively to maximize productivity and minimize downtime

- Troubleshoot complex production issues and implement corrective actions

- Ensure accurate tracking and reporting of production data

- Coordinate with other departments (melting, finishing, quality) to optimize workflow

Quality & Process Control

- Establish and maintain quality standards for all molding and coring processes

- Monitor and analyze defect trends and implement preventive measures

- Oversee calibration and verification of molding sand and chemical systems

- Review and approve process parameters and molding configurations

- Lead root cause analysis investigations for quality issues

- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality

Safety & Compliance

- Enforce all company safety policies and OSHA regulations

- Conduct regular safety audits and maintain a clean, organized work environment

- Investigate incidents and near-misses, implementing corrective actions

- Ensure all employees are properly trained and certified on equipment

- Maintain compliance with environmental regulations

- Lead safety meetings and promote a strong safety culture

Technical Expertise

- Possess comprehensive knowledge of sand molding processes and metallurgy

- Troubleshoot and resolve issues with Armour Spray System, sand systems, and chemical delivery

- Understand pattern configurations, gating systems, and feeding principles

- Monitor refractory coatings, sand strength, and setup times

- Interpret technical drawings and specifications

- Stay current with industry best practices and emerging technologies

Administrative Duties

- Manage department budget and control costs

- Maintain accurate records and prepare production reports

- Coordinate maintenance activities and equipment upgrades

- Participate in capital project planning and implementation

- Ensure proper inventory levels of consumables and supplies

Qualifications

Required

- High school diploma or GED

- Minimum 2 years of experience in foundry molding operations

- Minimum 2 years of supervisory or leadership experience

- Demonstrated expertise in green sand molding and core making processes

- Strong understanding of foundry safety practices and regulations

- Proficiency in computer systems for production tracking and scheduling

- Excellent communication skills in English (written and verbal)

- Ability to work flexible hours, including mandatory overtime and on-call availability

- Physical ability to work in a foundry environment with lifting, bending, and extended standing

Preferred

- Associate degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or related field

- Bilingual in English and Spanish

- Experience with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies

- Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC)

- Certification in foundry operations or management

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

This position requires working in a foundry environment with exposure to heat, noise, dust, and moving equipment. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, work on feet for extended periods, and wear all required personal protective equipment including respirators. Adaptability to changing environmental conditions and safety requirements is essential.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $57,000.00 - $68,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- 401(k) matching

- Dental insurance

- Health insurance

- Health savings account

- Life insurance

- Paid time off

- Referral program

- Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

- Grand Rapids, MI 49507 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

- Grand Rapids, MI 49507: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person