Department Lead - Forming Area

We are seeking a hands-on Department Lead to lead daily production execution in the Forming area (the beginning steps of our operations). This role is responsible for safe operations, product quality, schedule attainment, and team performance. You will coordinate staffing and workflow on the floor, resolve disruptions, and partner cross-functionally (Quality, Engineering, Maintenance) to maintain stable early-process flow and strong handoffs to downstream operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day forming operations (planning, scheduling, and efficient workflow) to meet output and delivery commitments.
• Enforce safety standards and PPE; proactively identify and address hazards and unsafe conditions.
• Ensure product quality through standard work discipline, in-process verification, and rapid containment of deviations.
• Troubleshoot daily production issues (equipment, materials, staffing constraints) and coordinate support with Maintenance/Engineering as needed.
• Support training execution and verification to SOP/Job Instructions; close gaps through coaching and refresher training.
• Drive continuous improvement by identifying waste and implementing practical changes that improve flow, reliability, and performance.
• Provide clear reporting (output, downtime, defects, top risks) and maintain strong cross-department communication.
• Provide people management for assigned employees, including coaching, feedback, and performance reviews in partnership with HR/management.
• Support payroll processing activities as applicable (timekeeping accuracy, approvals, and coordination with HR/payroll processes).
• Manage department inventory needs as applicable (supplies, materials readiness, and coordination to avoid shortages that disrupt production).

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership experience in manufacturing/operations (or equivalent).
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining safety and quality.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills; ability to partner cross-functionally.
• Comfortable working on the production floor and responding quickly to deviations from plan.
• Preferred Qualifications
• Experience leading process improvements (Lean/Kaizen or similar).
• Familiarity with Microsoft (MS) tools (e.g., Outlook, Excel) and SAP.