Operations Lead

The Processing Technologies Operations Lead supports the Operations Supervisor in coordinating the daily activities of the Processing Technologies department, Finishing, Pre inspection, Post inspection, Quality and other value-added processing operations. This position provides day-to-day operational leadership by coordinating workflow, monitoring production schedules, ensuring quality standards are met, and supporting a safe and efficient work environment.

The Operations Lead serves as the primary resource for team members during daily operations by providing technical guidance, training, troubleshooting, and communication. This position works closely with the Operations Supervisor and cross-functional departments to ensure production goals, quality expectations, and customer delivery requirements are consistently achieved.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES

• Coordinates daily workflow and production activities within the Processing Technologies department to ensure production schedules and customer requirements are met.
• Supports the execution of daily production schedules for the finishing line, pre-inspection and post inspection, and other processing operations.
• Monitors workflow to maximize equipment utilization, productivity, and operational efficiency.
• Provides day-to-day guidance, technical support, and coaching to Processing Technologies employees.
• Assists with machine setup verification, job sequencing, and production priorities to minimize downtime and maximize throughput.
• Monitors product quality throughout processing operations to ensure compliance with customer specifications and company quality standards.
• Conducts routine process audits to verify compliance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and safety requirements.
• Identifies quality or production concerns and assists with implementing corrective actions while communicating issues to the Operations Supervisor.
• Collaborates with Product Development to support implementation of new products, processing methods, equipment, and testing procedures.
• Coordinates with the Maintenance department regarding preventive maintenance schedules, equipment issues, and repair priorities to minimize production interruptions.
• Assists with collecting and reviewing daily production metrics, including throughput, scrap, downtime, efficiency, and quality performance.
• Leads shift start-up meetings to communicate production priorities, safety topics, quality expectations, and operational updates.
• Trains new employees and supports ongoing cross-training to improve operational flexibility and employee development.
• Assists in maintaining accurate production documentation and operational records.
• Participates in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, efficiency, waste reduction, and cost savings.
• Maintains housekeeping standards and promotes a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

You should be proficient in:

• Leadership / People Management
• 5 Why (Root Cause Analysis Method)
• Supervisory Experience
• Quality Control Experience