Material Handler - Team Lead

Job Summary

The Team Lead ensures materials are delivered accurately and on time to support production, inventory is maintained accurately, equipment is operated safely, and warehouse and production storage areas meet 5S standards. The position works closely with Production, Purchasing, Shipping, Receiving, and other departments to identify and resolve material shortages, inventory discrepancies, and workflow issues. This position serves as a working team lead, providing direction and support to Material Handlers while continuing to perform material handling responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Daily Coordination

• Provide daily direction, guidance, and support to Material Handlers.
• Coordinate daily material handling activities based on production requirements and priorities.
• Ensure team members understand work assignments, priorities, and expectations.
• Monitor workflow and redistribute work as needed to maintain efficient material flow.
• Serve as the first point of contact for Material Handlers regarding daily operational questions or concerns.
• Help hold team members accountable for following company policies, procedures, and work expectations.
• Assist with training and cross-training Material Handlers on equipment, processes, inventory procedures, and safety      requirements.
• Lead by example and promote a positive, respectful, and accountable team environment.

Material Movement & Production Support

• Safely transport materials, components, and products throughout the plant using forklifts, pallet jacks, carts, or other      approved equipment.
• Coordinate timely delivery of materials to production lines to prevent downtime.
• Load and unload incoming and outgoing shipments.
• Verify materials received match purchase orders, packing slips, or transfer documents.
• Stage materials for production, shipping, or storage as needed.
• Monitor material flow throughout the facility and identify potential shortages or delays.
• Communicate material shortages, delivery issues, or production concerns to supervisors and appropriate departments.

Inventory Control & Auditing

• Ensure accurate inventory transactions through scanning systems, ERP transactions, or manual logs.
• Coordinate and participate in routine cycle counts and physical inventory audits.
• Investigate and report inventory discrepancies, shortages, or damaged materials.
• Ensure materials are properly labeled and stored in designated locations.
• Assist with year-end or scheduled full inventory counts.
• Ensure team members follow established inventory control procedures.

5S & Workplace Organization

• Maintain clean, safe, and organized warehouse and production storage areas.
• Lead the Material Handling team in following 5S principles: Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain.
• Conduct routine checks of assigned areas to ensure 5S standards are maintained.
• Identify opportunities to improve storage layout, material flow, and workplace efficiency.
• Ensure waste, clutter, and unsafe conditions are promptly addressed.
• Encourage team members to identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities.

Safety & Compliance

• Promote a strong safety culture and lead by example in all material handling activities.
• Ensure team members follow PPE requirements, plant  safety rules, and established procedures.
• Perform and/or ensure completion of daily forklift  and equipment inspections.
• Report equipment maintenance concerns promptly.
• Immediately report accidents, near misses, unsafe conditions, or safety concerns to the appropriate Supervisor or Manager.
• Assist with reinforcing safe work practices and correcting unsafe behaviors.

Teamwork & Continuous Improvement

• Work closely with Purchasing, Shipping, Receiving, Production, Quality, and other departments to maintain efficient material      flow.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to inventory control, material flow, warehouse organization, and      production support.
• Identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to material handling processes.
• Support implementation of standardized work and  improved material handling procedures.
• Cross-train in other warehouse and logistics  functions as needed.
• Maintain open and effective communication with team members and leadership.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous warehouse, manufacturing, or material handling experience required.
• Previous leadership or team lead experience preferred.
• Forklift certification or ability to become certified required.
• Basic computer skills and ability to use inventory systems, scanners, and data entry systems.
• Experience with ERP systems preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with employees and leadership.
• Ability to provide direction and hold team members accountable.
• Ability to work independently while effectively leading and supporting a team.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and reach throughout the shift.
• Ability to safely operate forklifts and other material handling equipment.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures and noise levels.

Work Environment

This position works in a fast-paced manufacturing facility supporting semi-trailer production. The Team Lead will regularly work throughout the warehouse, production, shipping, and receiving areas. PPE is required in designated areas.

Fruehauf Expectations

At Fruehauf, all team members are expected to demonstrate reliability, accountability, teamwork, and a commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Team Leads are additionally expected to:

• Lead by example.
• Communicate clearly and consistently.
• Support and develop team members.
• Address issues promptly and appropriately.
• Promote accountability and teamwork.
• Maintain a professional and respectful work      environment.
• Support company goals and operational priorities.