Production Supervisor

Production Supervisor

The Production Supervisor provides hands-on leadership to manufacturing teams to ensure safe, efficient and high-quality production. This role oversees both manual and machine-based manufacturing processes while driving continuous improvement. The Supervisor ensures production jobs run to standard or better, implementing Lean tools such as 5S, one-piece flow and root-cause problem solving. Works collaboratively with Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance to resolve equipment, tooling and process issues.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily activities of production personnel and oversee all manufacturing and supporting operations.
• Drive a quality-centric culture by resolving issues promptly and implementing robust preventive measures.
• Apply sound troubleshooting methodologies in the investigation and corrective action of root cause as they pertain to equipment, processes and/or product.
• Utilize basic data analysis methodologies with production performance data collection initiatives throughout manufacturing to identify productivity improvement, support waste reduction opportunities and to reduce variability.
• Oversee both manual assembly and machine-based production processes, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
• Support deployment of one-piece flow, visual management, standard work, and 5S in all work areas.
• Train employees, assign work, provide coaching, and evaluate performance.
• Prepare and maintain production documentation including specifications, change requests, deviations, and SOPs.
• Optimize labor utilization and recommend staffing adjustments aligned with production schedules.
• Communicate effectively across operational disciplines and maintain strong cross-functional partnerships.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment consistent with Lean 5S expectations.
• Promote positive team culture, high morale, and open communication.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Understanding of company policies and business practices including industry standards, Good Manufacturing Practices, ISO requirements, and health and safety requirements.
• Strong understanding of Lean manufacturing principles including 5S, value-stream mapping, standard work, one-piece flow, and continuous improvement.
• Team player capable of successfully interacting at all levels with peers, seniors & subordinates in the successful resolution of day-to-day business issues.
• Proficient at using data to assess performance and drive improvement.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and organizational skills. Possess the ability to teach others effectively.
• Capability to work independently, handle changing priorities and short time constraints.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, and diagram or schedule form.
• Possess strong written and verbal communication skills necessary for leading others.
• Strong work ethic with reliable attendance and professional presentation.

Education and Experience

• Associate or bachelor's degree in technical discipline. Experience may be considered in lieu of a degree for a candidate who can demonstrate capable of successfully fulfilling all duties and responsibilities of the position.
• 5 years of experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Proven experience with Lean manufacturing, including 5S and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Experience working with both manual and machine-based production processes.
• Ability to work hours, as required, that are appropriate to completing projects and tasks on schedule.

Computer Skills

• Proficient computer skills: MS Windows, MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Have a good working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems.

Supervisory Requirements

• Direct supervisory requirements, approximately 20 manufacturing associates.
• Responsible for workflow, training for new employees, and answering job-related questions.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing: Work involves use of manufacturing equipment or proximity to equipment. May be exposure to some routine manufacturing related substances.
• Recurring physical demands include sitting, standing, walking, crouching and use of tools or computer systems
• Location: Bellows Falls, Vermont. Supports General Manufacturing hours: 1st shift 6:00am 2:30pm
• Key Stakeholders: Executive Leadership Team, Sales, Engineering, Quality, Operations
• Travel; Limited travel < 5%.