Production Manager

Job Title: Production Manager - Sheet Metal / Metal Fabrication

Location: Lancing, West Sussex

Reports To: Operations Manager

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary: £35,000 - £38,000 per annum

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Production Manager to oversee all aspects of the sheet metal and metal fabrication production process. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, technical expertise in metal fabrication processes, and a passion for driving efficiency and quality in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, organise, and manage daily production operations in the sheet metal fabrication department to meet production goals, quality standards, and delivery schedules.
• Supervise, lead, and mentor production team members including machinists, fabricators, welders, and assemblers.
• Ensure efficient use of resources including labour, materials, and equipment.
• Monitor production metrics and implement continuous improvement initiatives to increase productivity and reduce waste.
• Coordinate with engineering, quality assurance, maintenance, and logistics teams to ensure seamless production flow.
• Interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and work orders to guide production activities.
• Enforce health, safety, and environmental regulations and ensure a safe working environment.
• Troubleshoot production issues and resolve any delays or bottlenecks promptly.
• Assist in capacity planning, labour forecasting, and equipment maintenance scheduling.
• Maintain accurate records of production output, downtime, and performance metrics.
• Support training and development programs for production staff.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field preferred. Equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a metal fabrication or sheet metal production environment, including 2+ years in a leadership or managerial role.
• Strong understanding of fabrication processes including CNC machining, laser cutting, punching, bending, welding, and finishing.
• Proficient in reading technical drawings and blueprints.
• Working knowledge of lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.

Working Conditions:

• Manufacturing floor and office environment.
• Exposure to machinery, noise, and metal materials.
• Occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs) and standing for extended periods may be required.
• Hours: Monday to Thursday 7.30am - 4.00pm / Fridays 7:30 - 1:30pm.

If you are interested in this Production Manager role, please apply or contact Chloe McCausland at Clearline Recruitment on between 8:30am - 5:00pm.