WORK LEADER

Southern Fabricators•Polkton, NC

4d•$18 - $26

About The Position

The Work Leader supports daily departmental operations by coordinating production activities and providing hands-on leadership to ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and to company quality standards. The role requires technical knowledge, leadership ability, and the ability to sustain productivity, workflow, and departmental performance, particularly when the Foreman or Supervisor is unavailable. The Work Leader guides and trains employees, helps resolve operational challenges, and ensures workstations have the assignments, materials, and resources needed. The role uses company computer systems, including M2M and other ERP software, to monitor work orders, review production schedules, generate reports, and support communication across departments. The Work Leader promotes teamwork, accountability, safety, and continuous improvement in support of Southern Fabricators' operations. The position may also be assigned additional duties as needed to support departmental operations, production requirements, and organizational objectives.

Requirements

Strong working knowledge of departmental operations, equipment, tools, and safety procedures.
Demonstrated leadership ability, including experience guiding, mentoring, or training team members.
Proficiency with ERP systems or production tracking software, including M2M.
Ability to use 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.
Strong mechanical or technical aptitude relevant to the assigned department.
Ability to identify production challenges and assist with practical solutions.
Knowledge of workplace safety procedures and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Ability to communicate effectively with employees, supervisors, and personnel from other departments.
Ability to maintain accurate records and complete required production documentation.
Physical ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform tasks associated with departmental operations.
Ability to lift up to 100 lbs.
Strong commitment to teamwork, productivity, accountability, and maintaining a positive work environment.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience as a Work Leader, Lead Operator, or in a similar leadership position in manufacturing.
Experience in metal fabrication or industrial manufacturing operations.
Familiarity with M2M software, production scheduling, and work order management.
Experience training employees and supporting on-the-job training (OJT) programs.
Knowledge of continuous improvement practices, production performance metrics, and workflow optimization.
Experience coordinating production activities across multiple workstations or manufacturing cells.

Responsibilities

Coordinate daily departmental tasks and assignments to support efficient workflow and consistent production performance.
Perform 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.
Use M2M and other ERP systems to review open order reports, manage work orders, and support production scheduling.
Use company computers and laptops to access production information, generate reports, and monitor departmental activities.
Ensure workstations and production cells have the assignments, materials, and resources needed to meet production goals.
Monitor production performance, identify inefficiencies, and assist with 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 company procedures.
Answer employee questions, address operational concerns, and assist with technical challenges.
Monitor work quality and ensure completed tasks meet company standards and customer specifications.
Communicate 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.
Help prioritize work orders and adjust daily assignments to meet changing production requirements.
Maintain accurate production information, work order updates, and required departmental documentation.
Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, teamwork, and commitment to company values.
Maintain consistent attendance, punctuality, and productivity while supporting departmental performance.