Production Lead Operator

As a Lead Operator, you will play a key role in overseeing production operations within your assigned cell, ensuring that safety, quality, and efficiency targets are met. In addition to performing hands-on assembly work, you will be responsible for monitoring and driving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), acting as a point of escalation for production issues, and deputizing for the Team Leader when required. You will also be responsible for completing administrative tasks such as audits, reporting, and process compliance checks.

Ensure compliance with all HSE policies, promoting a safety-first culture and proper PPE use across the team.

Lead by example in safety audits, risk assessments, and hazard reporting to maintain a safe working environment.

Monitor and drive production performance metrics including throughput, quality, efficiency, yield, and downtime.

Track, report, and improve daily production performance through corrective actions and process optimisation.

Ensure all assembly work complies with Standard Work Instructions (SWIs) and required quality standards.

Conduct and document in-process quality checks, supporting root cause analysis, non-conformance management, and corrective actions.

Act as the first point of escalation for production issues, coordinating with engineering, maintenance, and quality teams to minimise disruption.

Maintain a clean, organised, and audit-ready 5S workspace, ensuring tools, fixtures, and materials are properly managed.

Support team leadership by deputising for the Team Leader, coaching operators, and training new employees on safety and best practices.

Skills and experience required:

• Prior experience in a full-scale manufacturing environment (preferably automotive), working in mechanical or electrical production assembly.
• Experience leading, mentoring, or supporting a production team in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to monitor, track, and report on key production metrics, driving improvements where necessary.
• Strong ability to identify, escalate, and resolve production issues efficiently.
• Knowledge of quality control processes, including in-process checks, defect management, and compliance reporting.
• Ability to operate and troubleshoot production equipment, read technical documentation, and perform assembly tasks.
• Strong ability to maintain accuracy, consistency, and traceability in all production and reporting tasks.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work closely with team leaders, engineers, and support departments.
• Competent using Microsoft Windows and applications such as Outlook, Word, and Excel.

Ability to prioritize and manage workloads, ensuring that production goals and deadlines are met.