Job Description

About Bock Water Heaters

Founded in 1929 and proudly headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, Bock Water Heaters is a leading manufacturer of commercial and specialty water heating and storage products. As a 100% employee-owned company and part of the Bradford White family , Bock is committed to delivering robust, innovative products with unmatched customer and technical support. Our manufacturing operations are rooted in Midwestern values and craftsmanship, producing high-efficiency water heaters built to last.

Position Summary

This leadership role oversees three (3) assembly and production departments, along with the material control team. The position promotes a collaborative team environment and fosters a well-trained, motivated staff while ensuring safety, quality, customer satisfaction, and cost control.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Supervise and lead production lines and team members, balancing labor to meet daily demands while ensuring safe and efficient operations in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Train direct reports to assemble products per instructions, drawings, or SOPs to meet quality and production goals.
• Reject products that do not meet established quality specifications.
• Ensure timely availability of parts (e.g., sheet metal, paint, flues, raw materials).
• Communicate daily with Buyer/Planner regarding material needs.
• Support and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen team dynamics.
• Communicate daily with the Production Manager and support teams regarding operational needs.
• Establish and communicate attendance and performance standards.
• Provide timely, specific, and constructive feedback.
• Use positive reinforcement and corrective actions appropriately.
• Participate in hiring and separation processes.
• Assist with annual performance reviews and goal setting for direct reports.
• Manage attendance, vacation, and PTO records.
• Complete necessary reports and notify Plant Operations Manager of employment issues.
• Provide documentation to HR and participate in disciplinary meetings as needed.

Additional Responsibilities

• Coordinate staffing needs with Temp Agencies, Plant Manager, and HR.
• Serve as backup for the Safety Coordinator/Production Assistant.
• Learn and perform all departmental roles as needed.
• Enter customer shipments and report shop floor activity as backup.
• Attend and occasionally lead production team and huddle meetings.
• Troubleshoot and perform light maintenance on equipment.
• Oversee Operator Preventative Maintenance (OPM).
• Coordinate with Maintenance for PM scheduling and repairs.
• Attend required job-related and safety trainings.
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned.

Supervisory Scope

Approximately 30 production staff, including:

• 5 TAKT Leaders
• Assemblers
• Machine Operators
• Material Control
• Welders
• Painters
• Fabricators

Skills & Abilities

• Conflict resolution and employee relations management.
• Clear, respectful communication across diverse teams and leadership levels.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Effective meeting facilitation and team training.
• Positive, cooperative attitude and commitment to quality.
• Familiarity with 5S and lean manufacturing practices.

Education & Experience

• 2–4 years of supervisory experience, preferably in manufacturing.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and internet applications.
• Ability to read and interpret product prints/specs and use measurement tools.
• Fundamental understanding of lean operations and safety protocols.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Use of PPE required (e.g., safety glasses, hearing protection, work boots).
• Exposure to welding, painting, foaming, and steel materials.
• Temperature range: 40°F – 90°F.
• High noise levels in some areas.

Physical Requirements:

• Manual dexterity for equipment operation.
• Frequent walking, standing, crouching, kneeling (up to 8 hours).
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs regularly.
• Valid driver’s license or occupational license required for lift truck operation.

Key Position Competencies

• Self-control and composure under stress.
• Respectful and persuasive communication.
• Active listening and thoughtful response.
• Professional appearance and positive company representation.
• Commitment to continuous learning and development.

Key Cultural Competencies

• Adaptability: Embrace change and improvement.
• Approachability: Stay composed and treat others with respect.
• Communication: Listen actively and speak clearly.
• Honesty: Own mistakes and act with integrity.
• Accountability: Take responsibility and be dependable.
• Passion: Inspire and celebrate success.
• Courage: Challenge inconsistencies and take smart risks.
• Curiosity: Understand our strategy, market, and customers.
• Transparency: Share openly and constructively.

We Offer Competitive Wages and Benefits:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Personal Time, 9 Paid Holidays)
• Generous Profit-Sharing Plan
• Incentive Programs (401K with match, ESOP, Safety, Attendance, Profitability)
• Health Savings Account
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Development & Growth Opportunities
• Casual Work Environment
• And much more!

Interested candidates may submit a resume and cover letter via email to janek@bockwaterheaters.com no later than 11:00 PM on Thursday, November 6, 2025 .

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

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