Production Lead Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of manufacturing, the role of a Production Lead has become increasingly critical.

As industries evolve and production lines grow, the demand for skilled individuals who can manage, optimize, and maintain our production processes is on the rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Production Lead?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the inner workings of production management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Production Lead job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Production Lead Duties and Responsibilities

Production Leads oversee and coordinate the manufacturing process in a production setting.

They ensure efficient and productive operations while maintaining high levels of safety and quality.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Overseeing daily operations and making adjustments as necessary
• Coordinating work schedules and assignments for team members
• Ensuring production quotas and standards are met
• Monitoring the manufacturing process and ensuring product quality
• Communicating job expectations and providing feedback to team members
• Training and supervising production workers
• Identifying and troubleshooting production issues
• Enforcing safety regulations and maintaining clean and safe work environment
• Collaborating with other departments to improve production performance
• Conducting performance reviews and managing any disciplinary issues
• Implementing and optimizing production methodologies and practices
• Reporting production status and data to management

 

Production Lead Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly skilled, efficient Production Lead to oversee our production operations.

The Production Lead’s responsibilities include ensuring efficient production workflow, meeting production targets, maintaining equipment, managing production staff and ensuring product quality.

The ideal candidate should have excellent leadership and organizational abilities, strong communication skills and in-depth knowledge of the production process.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, and manage production tasks and projects
• Enforce safety policies and procedures (both in-house and regulatory) to decrease the potential for team member injuries
• Ensure that final product meets quality standards and customer specifications
• Implement cost-effective solutions to improve production efficiency and output
• Ensure all resources and assets are used efficiently and correctly
• Prepare and maintain production reports and records
• Train new production workers and assign them to job duties
• Monitor production process and make routine process checks
• Resolve issues related to production in a timely manner

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Production Lead or similar role
• Understanding of quality standards and health & safety regulations
• Experience in reporting on key production metrics
• Proficient in MS Office and ERP software
• Outstanding communication ability
• Excellent organizational and leaderships skills
• Attention to detail
• Strong decision-making skills and a results-driven approach
• High school diploma; degree in a technical, engineering or relevant field will be an advantage

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Production Lead
• Work Environment: Production facility, with occasional office work. Safety gear may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Production Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• 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 Production Lead Do?

A Production Lead typically works in manufacturing industries, overseeing the production team’s operations.

They ensure that products are manufactured and distributed according to the company’s quality standards and schedule.

The Production Lead oversees the operations of the production line, ensuring that all machinery and equipment are functioning correctly and safely.

They also conduct regular checks and maintenance to minimize downtime and improve productivity.

They coordinate with other teams such as the supply chain, sales, and quality control to ensure smooth operations.

They are responsible for resolving any issues that may arise during the production process.

One of their main tasks is to manage and supervise the production staff.

They assign tasks, monitor performance, and provide training to ensure that all team members are efficient and competent in their roles.

They also analyze production data and prepare reports on production activities and progress.

They may be responsible for implementing new production processes and techniques to improve efficiency and product quality.

In addition, the Production Lead is also responsible for ensuring that the workplace adheres to health and safety regulations and guidelines.

They develop and enforce safety rules and protocols to protect the well-being of the employees and the integrity of the products.

 

Production Lead Qualifications and Skills

A Production Lead should have a combination of technical, management, and personal skills to effectively oversee and manage the production process, including:

• Leadership skills to effectively manage and motivate a production team, promoting a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Excellent understanding of production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and address any issues that arise in the production process, minimizing downtime and ensuring the smooth running of operations.
• Strong communication skills to relay information between different departments, coordinate with management, and provide clear instructions and feedback to production workers.
• Time management skills to ensure production schedules are adhered to and deadlines are met.
• Technical abilities to understand and operate machinery and other production tools, as well as to use computers and related technology for record keeping and reporting.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with team members, suppliers, and customers, fostering a collaborative and respectful work environment.
• Detail-oriented nature to keep a keen eye on the production process and ensure quality control measures are properly implemented.

 

Production Lead Experience Requirements

Production Lead positions typically require a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment.

This experience allows individuals to understand the complexities of production processes and to develop skills in managing these processes.

Entry-level roles such as Production Operator, Production Technician or Quality Assurance Inspector can provide valuable on-the-job experience.

In these roles, individuals gain practical exposure to production operations, including troubleshooting, quality control, equipment maintenance and safety procedures.

As they progress, individuals with around 2 to 3 years of experience may take on roles such as Production Supervisor or Production Planner, which involves more responsibility and requires greater understanding of production planning and scheduling.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often considered for Production Lead roles.

They should have demonstrable experience in leadership and team management, as well as a thorough understanding of production KPIs, lean manufacturing principles, and regulatory compliance.

In some cases, employers may also require Production Leads to have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Industrial Engineering or Operations Management.

In addition, certifications in production and inventory management or lean manufacturing may be beneficial.

 

Production Lead Education and Training Requirements

Production Leads typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, though a bachelor’s degree in business management, industrial engineering, or a related field is often preferred.

They usually need several years of experience in manufacturing or production roles, where they gain a strong understanding of production processes, quality control, equipment maintenance, and safety regulations.

Many employers prefer Production Leads who have experience with lean manufacturing principles and practices, and familiarity with production management software.

Some roles may require specific certifications such as the Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) from APICS or a Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification, indicating proficiency in process improvement methodologies.

Continuing education and training are beneficial as it allows a Production Lead to stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies.

This may include formal courses or on-the-job training in areas like project management, team leadership, or supply chain management.

Having a degree or certification in a relevant field, coupled with experience, can demonstrate a candidate’s leadership abilities, problem-solving skills, and commitment to continuous improvement.

 

Production Lead Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Production Lead is approximately $71,329 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can differ greatly depending on the industry, years of experience, educational qualifications, and the location of the job.

 

Production Lead Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Production Lead need?

Production Leads should have strong leadership skills to manage and coordinate the production team.

They should also possess excellent communication skills to relay information between management and the production team effectively.

Problem-solving skills are vital, as Production Leads need to handle any issues that arise during production and ensure that deadlines are met.

Additionally, they should have good knowledge of production processes and quality control.

 

Do Production Leads need a degree?

While some companies may require a degree in Business Administration, Industrial Management, or a related field, many focus more on relevant work experience in a production environment.

Additionally, having certain certifications, such as the Certified Production Technician (CPT), can be advantageous.

 

What should you look for in a Production Lead resume?

A Production Lead resume should highlight the applicant’s leadership and managerial experience in a production setting.

Look for details about their ability to improve processes, manage teams, and deliver projects on time.

Certifications related to production management and safety would also be a significant advantage.

 

What qualities make a good Production Lead?

A good Production Lead is a strong leader who can inspire their team and effectively manage resources.

They are decisive and have excellent problem-solving skills, being able to quickly and efficiently address issues that arise during production.

A good Production Lead is also detail-oriented, ensuring that all aspects of production meet the required quality standards.

 

What are the key responsibilities of a Production Lead?

A Production Lead’s responsibilities include managing the daily activities of the production team, ensuring that production targets are met, and maintaining the quality of products.

They also need to coordinate with other departments, such as the supply chain and quality control, to ensure that all parts of the production process run smoothly.

Additionally, a Production Lead might be responsible for training new team members and implementing safety procedures.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the complexities of what it really means to be a Production Lead.

And guess what?

It’s not just about managing a team.

It’s about orchestrating the symphony of production processes, one day at a time.

With our essential Production Lead job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your next move.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to stand out.

Remember:

Every process in production is part of a grander scheme.

Let’s create that future. Together.