Technical Production Supervisor

Roles and responsibilities

A Production Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the manufacturing or production processes within a factory or industrial setting. They ensure that production goals are met efficiently, safely, and within quality standards. The role involves managing a team of workers, ensuring proper resource utilization, and optimizing production workflows.

Key Responsibilities

Team Management

• Supervise Production Staff: Oversee the daily activities of production employees, ensuring tasks are completed on time and according to specifications.
• Train and Develop Workers: Provide training to new employees and continuous development to current workers. This includes teaching proper techniques, safety procedures, and the use of machinery and equipment.
• Monitor Performance: Evaluate the performance of production team members and address any issues related to productivity, quality, or behavior. Provide coaching and feedback to ensure improvements.
• Schedule Shifts: Coordinate staffing levels to ensure that production runs smoothly, including organizing shifts, breaks, and time-off schedules.

Production Management

• Ensure Production Targets: Set and meet production goals based on company targets, product specifications, and customer demand.
• Monitor Production Processes: Oversee all stages of the production process, from raw material intake to finished product. Ensure that production flows smoothly and that any delays are promptly addressed.
• Optimize Efficiency: Look for ways to increase production efficiency, minimize downtime, and reduce waste. Implement process improvements to enhance productivity.
• Maintain Quality Control: Ensure that products meet quality standards by conducting regular inspections and addressing any quality issues on the production line.

Equipment and Resource Management

• Manage Resources: Ensure that the necessary raw materials, components, and tools are available and in good condition for production. Coordinate with procurement teams to avoid shortages or delays.
• Oversee Equipment Maintenance: Make sure that production equipment is well-maintained, safe to use, and operating correctly. Schedule regular maintenance and address equipment breakdowns.
• Inventory Control: Manage inventory levels to ensure that there are enough materials for production while avoiding overstocking, which can lead to waste.

Safety and Compliance

• Implement Safety Procedures: Ensure that all production activities adhere to safety regulations, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe operation of machinery.
• Promote Workplace Safety: Conduct regular safety training and safety audits to ensure that employees work in a safe and secure environment.
• Ensure Compliance with Regulations: Ensure compliance with industry regulations, labor laws, and environmental standards.

Reporting and Communication

• Report to Management: Provide regular reports to upper management on production progress, issues, and any changes in production plans.
• Track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Measure key production metrics such as efficiency, quality, downtime, and costs to track progress against production goals.
• Coordinate with Other Departments: Work closely with other departments (e.g., quality control, supply chain, and maintenance) to ensure that production schedules are met and potential bottlenecks are addressed.

Desired candidate profile

1. Leadership and People Management

   • Strong leadership skills to guide and motivate a diverse team of production workers.
   • Conflict resolution abilities to address and resolve disputes among team members.

2. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

   • Ability to quickly assess problems and make decisions to minimize production disruptions, such as machinery breakdowns, supply delays, or quality issues.

3. Time Management and Organizational Skills

   • Efficiently managing production schedules, shifts, and resources to meet deadlines without sacrificing quality.
   • Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

4. Quality Control

   • Knowledge of quality standards and testing methods to ensure that the products meet the required specifications.
   • Ability to perform inspections and identify areas where production quality can be improved.

5. Technical Knowledge

   • Understanding of manufacturing processes, machinery, and technology used in the production environment.
   • Ability to read and understand blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings.

6. Communication Skills

   • Clear communication to provide instructions, report progress, and relay critical information to both staff and upper management.
   • Strong interpersonal skills to foster a collaborative team environment and build relationships with other departments.

7. Safety Awareness

   • A comprehensive understanding of safety procedures and the ability to enforce safety practices to prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace.
   • Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations related to workplace safety, quality, and environmental standards.