Assistant Production Manager

Key Responsibilities: Production Coordination: Assist the General Manager in coordinating daily production schedules for CNC Machining, Wire EDM, EDM, and Auto Lathe operations. Ensure that all work orders are processed and completed according to production schedules, customer specifications, and quality standards. Monitor production progress and make adjustments to meet deadlines and resolve any production delays or issues. Team Supervision: Supervise and provide direction to CNC machinists, EDM operators, Wire EDM technicians, and Auto Lathe operators. Ensure that all personnel are trained, adhering to best practices, and following safe operating procedures. Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to team members. Resource Management: Monitor machine availability, tooling, and materials to ensure that production is not delayed. Work with the production team to optimize machine utilization and minimize downtime. Ensure that the proper resources are available for the production of parts and components, including tools, fixtures, and raw materials. Process Optimization: Assist in identifying opportunities for process improvements to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality. Help implement Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement initiatives. Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure that processes are optimized for manufacturability and cost-effectiveness. Quality Control: Work closely with the Quality Control department to ensure that all manufactured components meet the required specifications and standards. Ensure that the production team follows quality assurance protocols and performs necessary inspections and tests during and after production. Address any quality issues promptly and collaborate with relevant teams to resolve non-conformances. Health & Safety Compliance: Ensure that all production activities adhere to workplace safety regulations and industry standards. Promote a culture of safety by ensuring that all operators follow safety procedures and report any safety concerns or incidents. Conduct regular safety audits and ensure compliance with health and safety requirements. Maintenance & Equipment Management: Assist in coordinating machine maintenance schedules to minimize unplanned downtime. Ensure that machines and equipment are properly maintained and serviced regularly to ensure optimal performance. Work with maintenance teams to address machine breakdowns or technical issues promptly. Reporting & Documentation: Assist in the preparation of production reports, including tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) like output, efficiency, downtime, and quality metrics. Maintain accurate documentation related to production processes, machine logs, and inventory. Help track production costs, scrap rates, and other relevant metrics to identify areas for improvement. Collaboration with Cross-functional Teams: Coordinate with the Planning and Logistics departments to ensure timely procurement of materials and proper inventory management. Work closely with engineering teams to resolve any design or process-related issues. Communicate effectively with other departments such as Quality Assurance, R&D, and Sales to align production goals with company objectives. Problem-Solving & Troubleshooting: Troubleshoot production issues related to CNC machining, Wire EDM, EDM, and Auto Lathe operations. Identify root causes of production problems and work with the team to implement effective solutions to minimize downtime and improve efficiency. Training & Development: Provide on-the-job training to new and existing production staff on equipment operation, safety procedures, and best practices. Support the professional development of team members and encourage skill-building to improve team performance. Required Skills and Qualifications: Education: Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent work experience in production management is acceptable. Experience: 3-5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with hands-on experience in CNC machining, Wire EDM, EDM, and Auto Lathe operations. At least 1-2 years of experience in a supervisory or leadership role, managing teams or overseeing production activities. Technical Skills: Strong knowledge of CNC machining processes (turning, milling), Wire EDM, EDM, and Auto Lathe operations. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software and machine programming is a plus. Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies. Strong understanding of quality standards and practices, including ISO 9001 and other relevant certifications. Leadership Skills: Strong team leadership abilities, including the ability to motivate and guide a team in a high-pressure environment. Experience in conflict resolution, performance management, and fostering a collaborative work environment. Problem-Solving Skills: Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, especially in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Ability to identify root causes of production issues and implement corrective actions efficiently. Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with staff, management, and other departments. Ability to produce and present reports to senior management, including production metrics, KPIs, and action plans. Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and production schedules simultaneously. Ability to maintain attention to detail while managing the bigger picture of production goals. Health & Safety Awareness: Thorough understanding of workplace safety standards and the ability to promote and enforce safety protocols. Preferred Qualifications: Certifications in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or production management would be a plus. Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing software for production tracking and inventory management. Industry Experience: Experience in high-precision manufacturing sectors like aerospace, automotive, or medical devices is preferred. Software Expertise: Proficiency with software tools used for production scheduling, process control, or machine monitoring (e.g., ERP, MES). Working Conditions: Environment-Manufacturing floor and office environment. The position may require time spent on the production floor to supervise and monitor operations. Physical Requirements: Ability to stand, walk, and occasionally lift up to 50 pounds. Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machines and equipment. Schedule: Standard working hours with occasional overtime depending on production needs.