Production Supervisor (2nd Shift)

POSITION OVERVIEW

• 2nd Shift - 3:45 pm - 1:15 am
• Reporting to the Production Manager, the Production Supervisor is responsible for leading daily manufacturing operations with primary oversight of the Weld Department, including MIG, TIG, and robotic welding processes.
• This role ensures production targets, quality standards, safety requirements, and delivery commitments are met while supporting cross-functional coordination across assembly, testing, and finishing operations.
• The Production Supervisor drives operational efficiency, workforce development, and continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining a safe and productive work environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Production & Scheduling:- Supervise daily production activities with primary responsibility for weld operations.

• Ensure production schedules are met across welding booths, robotic cells, and downstream processes.

• Balance labor and workflow to eliminate bottlenecks and maintain throughput.

• Coordinate with Planning, Quality, and Maintenance to resolve production challenges.

• Monitor and report daily performance metrics including output, efficiency, rework, and on-time delivery.

• Weld Department Oversight:- Support weld quality initiatives and work closely with Quality and CWI personnel.

• Oversee setup and operation of MIG, TIG, and robotic welding systems.

• Identify opportunities to improve arc-on time, reduce rework, and optimize weld cell utilization.

• Assist with weld process troubleshooting and corrective actions.

• Quality & Compliance:- Promote adherence to company quality standards and applicable codes (AWS, ASME, ISO, etc.).

• Ensure first-article inspections and in-process checks are completed.

• Lead corrective actions for non-conformance within the department.

• Maintain documentation and production records as required.

• Safety & Environmental:- Enforce all OSHA and company safety policies.

• Ensure proper PPE usage and safe welding practices.

• Monitor ventilation and fume extraction systems within weld areas.

• Conduct regular safety meetings and address hazards promptly.

• Leadership & Team Management:- Supervise, coach, and develop production employees, including welders and operators.

• Support hiring, onboarding, and training efforts.

• Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing feedback.

• Manage scheduling, attendance, overtime, and staffing levels.

• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

• Continuous Improvement:- Lead Lean initiatives including 5S, workflow improvements, and waste reduction.

• Track and analyze KPIs such as productivity, scrap rates, and labor efficiency.

• Recommend equipment upgrades and process enhancements.

• Support cross-training efforts to build workforce flexibility.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES

• Strong organizational and decision-making skills.
• Effective communicator across all levels of the organization.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Data-driven mindset with focus on measurable results.

Compensation $70,000–$80,000 - competitive salary based on experience

Reporting Structure Reports to the Production Manager

About the Client Our client is a well-established Chicago-area manufacturer with over 60 years in the industry, specializing in engineered specialty products for commercial building systems. They design and produce a broad range of components focused on noise and vibration control, movement compensation, and piping system protection. The company serves a national and international customer base through a distributed rep network and maintains an in-house technical support team.

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical or trade school education is preferred.
• 5+ years of manufacturing experience, with significant exposure to welding operations.
• 2+ years of supervisory experience in a production environment.
• Experience in a high-mix or high-volume manufacturing environment preferred.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Strong understanding of MIG, TIG, and robotic welding processes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and weld symbols.
• Knowledge of WPS/PQR documentation preferred.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and production reporting tools.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to spend extended periods on the production floor.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally.
• Exposure to industrial manufacturing conditions including heat, noise, and welding environments.

Must Have

• Minimum 5 years of manufacturing experience with significant exposure to welding operations
• Minimum 2 years of supervisory experience in a production environment
• Strong working knowledge of MIG, TIG, and robotic welding processes
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and weld symbols
• High School Diploma or GED

Nice to Have

• Technical or trade school education
• Experience in a high-mix or high-volume manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of WPS/PQR documentation
• Familiarity with ERP systems and production reporting tools

Medical, Dental, Vision, Short-term disability, PTO, AFLAC, 401k with company match