Operations Manager – Hot Rod & Muscle Car Restoration

V8 Speed & Resto Shop, located in Red Bud IL is seeking a highly organized, adaptable, and quality-driven Operations Manager to lead daily shop floor execution at our hot rod and muscle car restoration shop. Working on the shop floor, directly alongside our Project Manager, translating the budget, timeline and scope of work into high-quality physical execution on the floor, while holding technicians accountable to quality and efficiency metrics. Key Responsibilities 1. Shop Floor Execution & Throughput Direct daily operations across Fabrication, Paint & Body, Mechanical, Engine Machining, Interior and Final Assembly. Assign daily work orders to technicians based on Project Manager milestones. Enforce billable efficiency and monitor daily shop hours to ensure target build deadlines are met. Make decisive callouts on floor bottlenecks, technical obstacles, and workflow adjustments. 2. Quality Control & Phase-Gate Enforcement Conduct strict Quality Control inspections at every stage gate prior to signing off on build advancement. Ensure zero work moves to the next station without meeting V8 craftsmanship standards. Perform daily stand-ups with the Project Manager to communicate build progress, scope discrepancies, or required resources. 3. Procurement, Inventory Staging & Sublet Management Oversee inventory and parts staging so parts are fully verified and prepped before job commencement. Manage sublet vendor timelines (media blasters, chrome platers, glass installation, transmission rebuilder) to maintain overall project schedules. Maintain shop tooling, lift equipment, consumable supplies, and environmental/OSHA safety standards. 4. Team Leadership & Shop Culture Lead, coach, and hold technicians accountable for billable output, quality, and shop discipline. Maintain a clean, organized, 5S-compliant shop floor. Assist in vetting, interviewing, and onboarding skilled technical talent. Required Qualifications & Skills Operational Methodology: Proven experience using Lean/5S principles, SQDIP visual management boards, and Phase-Gate milestone systems. Experience: 3–5+ years in shop management, production control, or floor operations within automotive restoration, custom rod building, or high-performance automotive environments. Technical Depth: Deep knowledge of classic vehicle construction (fabrication, mechanical assembly, paint/body processes). Software: Proficiency in shop management software and Google Sheets/Excel for tracking production metrics. Leadership Style: Direct, structured, and organized; excels at holding teams accountable to clear standards. Pay: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee discount Flexible schedule Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance Work Location: In person

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