Manufacturing Team Leader Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of manufacturing, the role of the Manufacturing Team Leader is more critical than ever.

As industry standards evolve and production processes become more complex, the demand for skilled individuals who can oversee, streamline, and fortify our manufacturing operations grows stronger.

But let’s delve a bit deeper: What’s truly expected from a Manufacturing Team Leader?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the fundamentals of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the mechanics of manufacturing leadership,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Manufacturing Team Leader job description template, designed for quick and effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Manufacturing Team Leader Duties and Responsibilities

Manufacturing Team Leaders oversee production lines and staff to ensure timely and efficient manufacturing processes and quality product output.

They have a range of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Supervise and coordinate activities of workers engaged in manufacturing processes
• Ensure quality standards are met at all stages of the manufacturing process
• Facilitate and encourage a positive working environment to boost productivity
• Manage team performance, providing coaching and feedback as necessary
• Train new team members in their specific job tasks and safety procedures
• Identify and resolve problems and bottlenecks in the production process
• Collaborate with other departments to optimize production planning
• Maintain and oversee equipment maintenance and repairs
• Ensure that all health and safety regulations are adhered to
• Monitor inventory levels and order materials as needed
• Prepare and present reports on team performance and production issues

 

Manufacturing Team Leader Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and organized Manufacturing Team Leader to oversee our production operations.

The Manufacturing Team Leader will be responsible for managing a team of staff, coordinating machinery, and ensuring that products are made efficiently without compromising quality.

The successful candidate will have a solid background in manufacturing and be able to improve our current manufacturing processes.

They should be able to ensure our production and quality goals are met while also fostering a positive and safety-focused work environment.

 

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a team of production workers, ensuring they meet production and quality goals.
• Monitor manufacturing processes, adjust schedules as needed, and check equipment for functionality.
• Implement and enforce quality control programs, identifying any areas of deficiency and introducing corrective actions.
• Regularly report on team performance and production issues to upper management.
• Encourage and enforce compliance to safety procedures and protocols.
• Coordinate with other departments to facilitate efficient and cost-effective production processes.
• Develop and implement training programs to improve employee performance.
• Contribute to production planning and budgeting.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Manufacturing Team Leader or similar role.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing process and industry standards.
• Understanding of quality control procedures and relevant legal standards.
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and multitask.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Engineering, or a related field is preferred.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Manufacturing Team Leader
• Work Environment: This position requires work in a manufacturing plant environment with some exposure to elements such as noise, dust, and heat.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Plant Manager or Manufacturing Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Manufacturing Team Leader Do?

Manufacturing Team Leaders typically work in factories or production facilities across a wide range of industries, from automotive to food processing to electronics.

They are responsible for overseeing a team of workers in a manufacturing setting.

This includes planning and organizing work schedules, assigning tasks, and monitoring the team’s progress.

Manufacturing Team Leaders also ensure that the production process runs smoothly and effectively.

They troubleshoot equipment issues, manage material resources, and ensure that safety regulations are strictly followed.

They often liaise with other departments such as Quality Control and Logistics to ensure products meet the set quality standards and are ready for shipment on time.

Their role may also involve training new employees and providing guidance and support to their team members.

Manufacturing Team Leaders play a key part in implementing continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and productivity, and reduce costs.

In addition to these tasks, they are responsible for maintaining a positive work environment, resolving disputes, and promoting teamwork within their department.

 

Manufacturing Team Leader Qualifications and Skills

A manufacturing team leader should possess a combination of technical and soft skills that align with the role, such as:

• Strong leadership abilities to guide, motivate and manage a team of manufacturing professionals in day-to-day operations
• Excellent communication skills for clear and effective conveyance of information to team members, superiors, and subordinates
• Experience in manufacturing processes and understanding of production line management to ensure efficiency and quality in output
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and resolve production issues, minimize downtime and maintain workflow
• Ability to monitor and manage resources, including personnel, materials, and time, to ensure optimal utilization
• Technical skills for operating, maintaining and troubleshooting manufacturing machinery and equipment
• A keen eye for quality control to ensure product meets the required standards
• Ability to use data and metrics to measure team performance, analyze production issues and develop continuous improvement plans

 

Manufacturing Team Leader Experience Requirements

Manufacturing Team Leaders typically require at least 3-5 years of experience in manufacturing or a related field.

It is beneficial if they have experience in a position of responsibility or leadership, even if it is not in the manufacturing industry.

Their experience should demonstrate a clear understanding of the manufacturing process, ability to effectively manage a team, and the skill to resolve any issues that may arise during the process.

They should have knowledge about safety procedures, quality control, and production planning.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have held a supervisory or managerial role in the manufacturing industry.

These candidates often have more advanced skills in resource allocation, team management, and process improvement.

Additionally, Manufacturing Team Leaders should have experience with manufacturing machinery and equipment, as well as software related to inventory management and production planning.

They may also benefit from experience with lean manufacturing principles and practices.

Continued professional development and a track record of successful team leadership will make a candidate more attractive to potential employers.

 

Manufacturing Team Leader Education and Training Requirements

A Manufacturing Team Leader generally has a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, many employers prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering technology, industrial engineering, or a related field.

In-depth knowledge of production procedures and experience on the shop floor are also required.

Candidates with prior experience in a similar role, preferably in the same industry, are often preferred.

Manufacturing Team Leaders should also have a good understanding of manufacturing quality standards and safety regulations.

Familiarity with industry-specific machinery, tools and equipment is also essential.

Although not required, obtaining a certification such as the Certified Production Technician (CPT) or Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) can showcase an individual’s competence and commitment to the manufacturing industry.

Leadership and managerial skills are important in this role, and therefore, any previous leadership training or experience can be beneficial.

Continuing education and training in new production methods and technologies are also valuable as this role often requires individuals to adapt to changes in the manufacturing process.

 

Manufacturing Team Leader Salary Expectations

A Manufacturing Team Leader can expect to earn an average salary of $61,914 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can significantly vary depending on factors such as experience, the scale of operations, geographical location, and the company’s industry sector.

 

Manufacturing Team Leader Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Manufacturing Team Leader need?

A Manufacturing Team Leader needs strong leadership and organizational skills, along with the ability to effectively manage time and resources.

They should be skilled in problem-solving and decision-making, and have an understanding of manufacturing processes and equipment.

Communication skills are also essential to relay information between team members and upper management.

 

Do Manufacturing Team Leaders need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, a bachelor’s degree in business administration, operations management, or a related field can be beneficial.

However, significant experience in a manufacturing setting, along with proven leadership ability, can often compensate for lack of formal education.

 

What should you look for in a Manufacturing Team Leader resume?

In a Manufacturing Team Leader’s resume, look for a solid background in manufacturing, including experience with the specific type of manufacturing used in your facility.

Strong leadership experience, evidence of successful project management, and any specialized skills or certifications should also be highlighted.

It’s also important to look for indications of reliability, such as a stable job history.

 

What qualities make a good Manufacturing Team Leader?

A good Manufacturing Team Leader is one who can effectively manage and motivate their team, ensuring that everyone is working efficiently and maintaining quality standards.

They need to be decisive, able to solve problems quickly, and communicate effectively with both their team and senior management.

Additionally, they should be detail-oriented, with a strong understanding of the manufacturing process.

 

What are the daily duties of a Manufacturing Team Leader?

The daily duties of a Manufacturing Team Leader can vary depending on the specific nature of the manufacturing facility.

Generally, they are responsible for supervising the manufacturing team, ensuring that work is completed on time and to the required quality standards.

They may also be involved in training staff, maintaining equipment, scheduling shifts, and communicating with other departments.

They are also responsible for ensuring the safety and compliance of the manufacturing floor.

 

Is it difficult to hire Manufacturing Team Leaders?

Hiring Manufacturing Team Leaders can be challenging because the role requires a combination of practical manufacturing experience and strong leadership skills.

However, promoting from within can often be effective, as it allows companies to select individuals who already have a thorough understanding of the company’s manufacturing processes and culture.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the inner workings of a manufacturing team leader’s role.

Surprised?

It’s not just about overseeing production lines.

It’s about orchestrating the symphony of creation, one product at a time.

Armed with our detailed manufacturing team leader job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to step up.

But why halt your momentum?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to precision-crafted job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Keep this in mind:

Every product is a piece of the larger puzzle.

Let’s construct that future. Together.

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