Manufacturing Operations Cell Lead

A day in the role

You begin the shift with a quick huddle: clarifying production goals, aligning the team to KPI targets, and distributing work based on Visual Work Instructions (VWI) and job procedures. You review the previous shift’s handoff, prioritize abnormalities and quality alerts, and set immediate countermeasures to keep the line safe and on target.

On the floor, you track performance, respond to process issues, and troubleshoot equipment or workflow bottlenecks. You coach team members in real time, confirm training is complete and effective, and ensure documentation stays current. Throughout the day, you coordinate with cross-functional partners, escalate risks, and—when needed—stop production to protect quality or safety.

Before shift-end, you finalize countermeasure tracking for unplanned downtime (DT), quality escapes, KPI gaps, and safety observations. You prepare the next shift’s update so handoffs are crisp and expectations are clear.

Core impact

• Translate production requirements into clear tasks and priorities for the team.
• Communicate effectively across levels and departments; keep stakeholders informed and aligned.
• Own process quality: respond to abnormalities, drive root cause analysis, and verify fixes.
• Maintain current work instructions and job procedures; validate adherence to standards.
• Track and implement countermeasures for DT, quality, KPI attainment, and safety.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts to restore flow quickly and sustainably.
• Ensure team training is adequate and documented; close skills gaps proactively.
• Take on additional duties or projects as assigned to support operations.

Leadership approach

• Vision and clarity: set direction tied to the business strategy and make it actionable.
• Change leadership: challenge the status quo and involve others to improve outcomes.
• People first: communicate expectations clearly; develop, mentor, and give helpful feedback.
• Transparent communication: keep associates informed and practice active listening.
• Data-driven judgment: make timely, logical decisions grounded in facts and commit to action.
• Alignment and collaboration: seek input, remain open-minded, and focus on shared goals.
• Results focus: set goals, remove obstacles, and sustain focus to deliver.
• Growth mindset: encourage new ideas, stay resilient, learn from setbacks, and model optimism.
• Trust builder: be credible, approachable, humble, and genuine; lead with integrity.
• Courage: address conflict constructively and make tough calls when needed.

Supervisory responsibilities

• Hold associates accountable for safety, quality, and conduct standards.
• Verify work is performed per VWI (Visual Work Instructions) and job procedures.
• Recommend targeted training when expectations are not met.
• Coach, develop, and participate in counseling to elevate performance.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience with proven problem-solving discipline.
• Strong communicator; collaborative and team-oriented.
• Continuous improvement participation.
• Understanding of robotics and automation equipment preferred.
• High School diploma or GED.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Basic computer and Microsoft Excel skills.
• Skilled in soldering; warehouse and packaging experience.

Physical requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, sit, handle objects with hands/fingers, climb stairs, and reach.
• Lift and move 10–30 lbs periodically.
• Use close, color, peripheral, distance, and depth vision; maintain focus for product inspection.
• Travel by car or air as needed.

Authority and decision rights

• Lead and participate in corrective actions.
• Collaborate with the Supervisor on team member placement.
• Stop production when safety or quality is at risk.
• Request and manage process changes with prior approval (e.g., equipment, software).

Tools, machines, and technologies

• Sterilization-In-Place (SIP)
• Automotive Vehicles (Toyota, Honda)
• Safety Glass; Tempered Glass
• Pallet Jack; Palletizer
• HMI; Conveyor Systems
• Pelletizer Machine

Growth

This role is designed for leaders working toward the next level—build capability, deliver results, and grow your impact.