Production Team Leader

Production Team Lead

Defence

Role Overview

The Manufacturing Team Leader is accountable for overseeing a designated production area, coordinating people, materials, and processes to ensure daily output targets are achieved while complying with operational, quality, and safety requirements.

Direct Reports: Manufacturing Operatives

Key Accountabilities

• Oversee end-to-end production activities, from receipt of components through assembly, testing, and dispatch

• Ensure all operations within the assigned area comply with organisational procedures, quality standards, and best practice

• Provide hands-on support to the team when required, including:

  • Assembling electro-mechanical products in line with IPC-A-610 requirements

  • Performing automated and manual testing of assemblies

  • Packaging finished goods

  • Conducting self-inspection to confirm product quality

  • Logging defects, errors, or non-conformances within the ERP system

• Track and deliver performance against agreed KPIs relating to output, quality, cost, and health & safety

• Promote and support continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, lead time reduction, cost control, quality enhancement, and waste elimination

• Deliver training and cross-skilling of team members to agreed operational standards

• Encourage positive team engagement and strong working relationships through leadership by example

• Apply non-conformance procedures to ensure defective materials are identified and returned to suppliers

• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures

• Act as deputy for the Manufacturing Manager when required

• Manage material shortages and stock discrepancies via the ERP system and liaison with stores and procurement teams

• Lead daily Tier 1 meetings, escalating relevant issues to Tier 2 forums where necessary

People Leadership

• Lead, motivate, and develop direct reports to ensure performance targets are achieved safely, efficiently, and to quality standards

• Coach team members to enhance technical capability and role effectiveness

• Deliver on-the-job training and skills development

• Conduct performance reviews and development discussions

• Carry out return-to-work interviews and attendance-related processes

Tools & Equipment

• Automated and manual test equipment

• PC-based systems including ERP software for time recording and job tracking

• Standard manufacturing tools (e.g. crimpers, wire preparation tools, soldering equipment, heat guns)

• Production machinery as defined within standard operating processes