Team Leader - Machine Shop
Location: Whitstable, Kent
Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday
Who We Are & What's on Offer
We're seeking an experienced Machine Shop Team Leader to join a leading engineering and manufacturing organisation based in Whitstable.
This hands-on supervisory role is key to ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the production area - coordinating workloads, maintaining quality standards, and leading a skilled team to meet operational targets.
What will I be doing?
As a Machine Shop Team Leader, you'll work closely with the Production Manager, overseeing manufacturing performance, drive continuous improvement, and ensure KPIs such as on-time delivery, quality, and efficiency are consistently achieved.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and coordinate a team of Operators to meet daily production targets.
- Plan workloads and allocate resources to achieve KPI objectives (On-Time Delivery, Quality, Arrears, and Efficiency).
- Maintain high standards of health, safety, and housekeeping, ensuring all processes and risk assessments are current.
- Manage team performance including attendance, training, and development.
- Monitor and report on production metrics, facilitating problem-solving and process improvements.
- Conduct team briefs, toolbox talks, and ensure clear communication across the department.
- Oversee quality performance, including scrap, rework, and non-conformance management.
- Act as deputy for the Production Manager when required.
What do I need to succeed?
Essential:
- Proven experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
- Previous supervisory or team leadership experience.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production planning, and quality systems.
- Excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
- Confident communicator with strong people management ability.
- Knowledge of Health & Safety, including Risk Assessments and COSHH.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and familiar with MRP/ERP systems.
- Ability to read CAD drawings and conduct first-off inspections.
Desirable:
- Experience deputising for a Production Manager.
- Familiarity with 5S / Lean Manufacturing principles.
- Experience with training matrices, recruitment, and performance management.
