Job Summary
The Production Lead oversees daily manufacturing operations to support efficient workflow, on time delivery, product quality, and workplace safety. This role coordinates and tracks work orders, monitors production progress, supports hands-on production activities, and serves as a point of escalation for operational issues, partnering closely with the Supervisor.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Release, assign, and track work orders to ensure efficient workflow and on-time completion.
- Monitor daily production activity, identify issues or delays, and escalate concerns to leadership as needed.
- Provide hands-on production support, including equipment operation, order fulfillment, and product packaging.
- Assist with expediting urgent or priority orders in coordination with the Sales team.
- Support onboarding and training of new production employees by providing guidance and direction.
- Inspect products for conformance to specifications and assists with machine setup and adjustments.
- Maintain accurate production records, shift reports, inventory data, and related documentation.
- Perform cycle counts and monitor inventory levels daily, assist with stock put-away as required.
- Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment to transfer materials and finished goods.
- Prepare and compete shipping documentation for outgoing orders.
- Collaborate with maintenance, quality, and logistics team to minimize disruptions and support operational excellence.
- Participate in audits, inspections, and internal reviews.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Skills
- Strong problem solving and conflict resolution skills in a production environment.
- Ability to learn and work with various material types and customer specifications.
- Proficiency or working knowledge of manufacturing equipment, including: welding (TIG), soldering, torch welding, plasma cutter, circle shear, automatic band saw, mill, lathe, small presses, and forklifts.
- Experience using measuring and testing instruments, including calipers, micrometers, scales, and related tools.
- Ability to perform quality checks and inspections as required.
- Forklift certification required or ability to obtain certification.
Education
- Required: High school diploma or GED required.
- Preferred: Vocational or technical education.
Work Experience
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in a similar manufacturing or production position.
- Previous formal or informal experience in a leadership position or experience in leading a team or projects.
- Preferred: Prior experience in an ISO-certified manufacturing environment (ISO-9001, ISO-9002).
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds independently.
- Continuous standing and or walking throughout the workday.
- Frequent bending, stooping, climbing, and reaching.
- Ability to work in hot, cold, dusty, and noisy industrial environments.
- Good hand-eye coordination and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities with a strong sense of urgency.
