Overview

Job Title: Work LeaderLocation: Polkton, NCDepartment: Manufacturing / OperationsReports To: Foreman / Production SupervisorEmployment Type: Full-Time Position Overview The Work Leader is responsible for supporting daily departmental operations, coordinating production activities, and providing hands-on leadership to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to company quality standards. This position requires strong technical knowledge, leadership abilities, and the capability to maintain productivity, workflow, and departmental performance, particularly in the absence of a Foreman or Supervisor.The Work Leader serves as a resource for department employees by providing guidance, assisting with training, resolving operational challenges, and ensuring workstations have the necessary materials and assignments. This role also involves using company computer systems to monitor work orders, review production schedules, and support communication between departments. By promoting teamwork, accountability, safety, and continuous improvement, the Work Leader plays an essential role in supporting the overall success of Southern Fabricators. Responsibilities Coordinate daily departmental tasks and assignments to ensure efficient workflow and consistent production performance.Perform all duties at the highest skill level required within the department.Assume leadership responsibilities when the Foreman or Supervisor is unavailable.Provide guidance, motivation, and hands-on support to department employees.Utilize company systems, including M2M and other enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, to review open order reports, manage work orders, and support production scheduling.Operate company computers and laptops to access production information, generate reports, and monitor departmental activities.Ensure all workstations and production cells have the necessary work assignments, materials, and resources to meet production goals.Monitor production performance, identify inefficiencies, and assist with implementing continuous improvement initiatives.Promote and maintain a safe, organized, and productive work environment by following and reinforcing company safety standards.Assist with employee training, on-the-job instruction, troubleshooting, and compliance with established company procedures.Provide support to employees by answering questions, addressing operational concerns, and assisting with technical challenges.Monitor work quality and ensure completed tasks meet company standards and customer specifications.Communicate effectively with Planning, Quality, Maintenance, and other departments to maintain production workflow and resolve operational issues.Identify and report equipment malfunctions, material shortages, quality concerns, and production delays to the appropriate supervisor.Assist with prioritizing work orders and adjusting daily assignments to meet changing production requirements.Maintain accurate production information, work order updates, and departmental documentation as required.Lead by example by demonstrating professionalism, accountability, teamwork, and a strong commitment to company values.Maintain consistent attendance, punctuality, and productivity while supporting departmental performance. Qualifications Strong working knowledge of the department's operations, equipment, tools, and safety procedures.Demonstrated leadership ability, including experience guiding, mentoring, or training team members.Proficiency in using enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems or production tracking software, including M2M.Ability to operate a laptop or computer to generate reports, review open orders, and manage production information.Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production workflow, and departmental quality standards.Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.Ability to work independently, prioritize responsibilities, and make effective decisions under pressure.S