Metalwork Team Leader

About the role

We are looking for a motivated Metalwork Team Leader to oversee our metal fabrication shop floor. You will lead a skilled crew, ensure production targets are met, and uphold the highest standards of safety and quality.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and support the metal‑work team, allocating daily tasks and matching skills to jobs.
• Monitor attendance, time‑keeping and discipline, providing on‑the‑job coaching and mentoring.
• Follow the production schedule, prioritise jobs, coordinate shift hand‑overs and manage material availability.
• Enforce health and safety procedures, conduct toolbox talks and ensure proper use of PPE, machinery, welding equipment and lifting gear.
• Carry out first‑off checks, in‑process inspections and ensure work meets drawings, specifications and tolerances.
• Maintain machines and tools, report faults, monitor material usage and uphold 5S standards.
• Liaise with planners, engineering, quality and maintenance teams, communicating daily targets and updates.
• Track output, downtime, scrap and efficiency, supporting KPIs such as OEE and on‑time delivery.
• Promote continuous improvement, lean manufacturing and waste‑reduction initiatives.

Required profile

• Proven experience in a busy manufacturing environment with team‑leadership responsibilities.
• GCSEs in Maths and English (or equivalent).
• First‑Aid training is desirable.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality and productivity.

Required skills

• Welding and metalworking techniques.
• Machine operation and tool set‑up.
• Health & safety compliance.
• Quality inspection and defect identification.
• Production planning and scheduling.
• Lean manufacturing and 5S workplace organisation.
• OEE monitoring and performance reporting.