Second Shift Supervisor

The Second Shift Supervisor is responsible for overseeing all manufacturing, assembly, material handling, and warehouse operations during second shift within a sheet metal fabrication plant. This role ensures safe, efficient, and high-quality production across all functional areas while meeting customer delivery requirements.

The Supervisor provides hands-on leadership, supports employees in troubleshooting production challenges, and ensures smooth communication and transition between shifts. This position plays a key role in maintaining productivity, quality standards, material flow, and team morale during off-shift operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Shift Operations Management:

• Oversee all second shift operations including laser cutting, turret punch presses, press brakes, welding, hardware insertion (PEM), assembly, finishing, material handling, and warehouse activities.
• Ensure production schedules are executed to meet on-time delivery and stocking commitments.
• Monitor workflow, staffing, machine utilization, and material flow to maximize efficiency.
• Identify bottlenecks and reallocate labor or resources as needed to maintain production flow.
• Ensure proper shift turnover communication with first shift leadership.

Material Handling & Warehouse Oversight:

• Supervise second shift material handlers and warehouse personnel.
• Ensure timely movement of raw materials, WIP, and finished goods to support production schedules.
• Oversee receiving (if applicable), internal material transfers, staging, and shipping preparation.
• Ensure accurate inventory transactions and proper material identification.
• Coordinate with Production and Shipping to ensure orders are staged and ready to meet required delivery dates.
• Maintain organization, cleanliness, and safety standards within warehouse areas.

Employee Support & Floor Leadership:

• Actively assist employees in resolving manufacturing issues, equipment challenges, material shortages, and quality concerns.
• Provide hands-on guidance in machine setup, fabrication techniques, assembly processes, and troubleshooting.
• Serve as the primary decision-maker for operational issues during second shift.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and a positive work environment.
• Address attendance, performance, and behavioral concerns in alignment with company policies.

Quality & Continuous Improvement:

• Ensure adherence to blueprints, work instructions, and quality standards.
• Partner with Quality personnel to address non-conformances and implement corrective actions.
• Monitor scrap, rework, and productivity metrics.
• Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure proper documentation of production, inventory, and quality records.

Safety & Compliance:

• Enforce all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and company policies.
• Conduct routine safety observations and correct unsafe behaviors immediately.
• Ensure machinery and material handling equipment are operated safely.
• Report incidents and participate in root cause investigations as needed.

Communication & Coordination:

• Communicate production status, staffing issues, inventory concerns, and equipment downtime to management.
• Coordinate with Maintenance to address equipment issues.
• Work closely with Materials Management to ensure proper inventory control and replenishment.
• Maintain clear communication with team members regarding goals, expectations, and performance.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training or trade certification preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in sheet metal fabrication, assembly, or warehouse operations.
• 2+ years of supervisory or team leadership experience preferred.

Technical Skills:

• Strong knowledge of fabrication equipment including laser cutting, turret punch presses, press brakes, welding (MIG/TIG), and hardware insertion.
• Understanding of material flow and warehouse operations in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and inventory transactions.
• Basic mechanical and equipment troubleshooting skills.

Leadership Competencies:

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Hands-on leadership style with a willingness to assist on the floor.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities during off-shift hours.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and team development.

Work Environment:

• Manufacturing and warehouse environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and metal fabrication processes.
• Frequent standing, walking, and occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs).
• Interaction with forklifts and other material handling equipment.
• Second shift hours with flexibility to support production demands.