Group Lead

Location: 19845 US Hwy 76, Newberry, South Carolina 29108 Position Summary The Group Lead is responsible for leading daily production activities and supporting production personnel to ensure safe, efficient, and high‑quality operations. This role provides hands‑on leadership on the production floor, promotes teamwork and accountability, and serves as a key communication link between production employees and leadership. Essential Functions Lead and support daily production activities for assigned work areas and personnel. Promote a positive team environment through effective communication, coaching, motivation, and accountability. Assist in training and onboarding employees to ensure consistent processes, quality standards, and safe work practices. Model and reinforce all safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements while identifying opportunities for continuous safety improvements. Monitor workflow, staffing, equipment, and materials to support production schedules and operational goals. Help ensure products are manufactured efficiently and meet quality and customer requirements. Maintain production flow and proactively address issues that may impact safety, quality, or delivery. Track and communicate daily production, quality, and safety metrics with employees and leadership. Support accurate production reporting and timely entry of production information into business systems. Assist with tracking shop orders through production and help expedite orders as needed to meet business demands. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment throughout the shift. Communicate effectively across shifts and departments to ensure operational alignment and continuity. Support employee engagement and maintain a respectful and productive work environment. Operate in both indoor and outdoor manufacturing environments while wearing required PPE. Perform other duties as assigned. Important Details about the Role The employee is responsible for performing assigned duties with limited supervision. Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills are required to effectively work with employees at all levels. The position directly impacts safety, quality, productivity, manufacturing costs, and customer satisfaction. The employee must help maintain a safe and productive environment while ensuring quality products are shipped complete and on time. This position reports to the Production Supervisor. Required Qualifications High School Diploma or GED equivalent required. 1 year of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment. Previous leadership, team lead, or coaching experience preferred. Knowledge of manufacturing processes, fabrication equipment, and production operations. Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. Ability to read and use measuring tools including tape measures, micrometers, and gauges. Overhead crane and/or forklift experience preferred. Valid Driver’s License with a safe driving record preferred. Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, and Outlook. Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Ability to work in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment while meeting safety, quality, and productivity expectations. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, with frequent lifting up to 20 pounds. Ability to become certified in forklift operation and other required equipment. Ability to wear required PPE and follow all facility safety regulations. Maintain a safe and productive working environment. Able to do basic math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division and fraction conversion). Able to read and comprehend routings and blueprints. Able to use a tape measure. Able to use a computer to enter production data, perform time‑keeping functions, interface with machines and other equipment. Preferred Qualifications Three (3) or more years of experience in a leadership role within a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma training or certification. Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills. Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to changing production demands. Strong attention to detail and ability to follow work instructions and procedures. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with others. Strong commitment to workplace safety and continuous improvement. Self‑motivated individual with integrity, accountability, and a strong work ethic. Benefits Healthcare (medical, prescription drugs, dental and vision) 401(k) retirement plan with company match Paid time off Employer‑paid life insurance Employer‑paid short‑term and long‑term disability including maternity leave Work life support Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 per year Voluntary programs (e.g., tobacco cessation, Type2 diabetes reversal, one‑on‑one health coaching, mortgage services) EEO Statement Valmont does not discriminate against any employee or applicant in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. If you have a disability and require any assistance in filling out the application for employment, email View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr