Production Lead Jobs in Tennessee

INTRODUCTION

The Production Team Lead serves as a front-line working supervisor, responsible for coaching, supporting, and leading production employees to achieve operational goals. This role actively participates in production while ensuring daily manufacturing targets are met safely, efficiently, and with a high level of quality.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, enjoys developing team members, and can balance production responsibilities with leadership and problem-solving.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Production Operations

- Perform critical jobs within the Value Stream to support production needs and act as a floater when required
- Coordinate staffing with employee skill sets and production schedules in partnership with the Value Stream Manager
- Set up production cells to meet Takt time requirements and achieve daily production goals
- Ensure necessary parts, drawings, and materials are available for each production cell
- Operate a forklift and assist with scrap material weighing as needed

Quality Assurance

- Monitor production output to ensure quality standards are consistently met
- Identify inconsistencies or defects and address issues promptly
- Escalate significant production or quality concerns to leadership when necessary

Equipment & Work Area Maintenance

- Maintain tools, equipment, and workstations in safe and working condition
- Ensure work areas are organized and operating efficiently

Leadership & Team Development

- Train and develop employees using the RiteScreen 30/60/90-day training process
- Conduct daily start-up meetings to communicate production priorities, safety reminders, and operational updates
- Serve as backup to the Value Stream Manager when needed
- Assist HR with employee matters when required
- Maintain performance boards and record hourly production metrics
- Conduct operator and cell audits and provide performance feedback
- Prepare production areas for GEMBA reviews

Safety & Continuous Improvement

- Promote a collaborative and respectful team environment that encourages cross-training and skill development
- Enforce safety protocols and ensure compliance with all PPE and workplace safety requirements
- Support a strong safety culture through participation in ongoing training and safe work practices
- Follow and enforce 5S standards to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workplace
- Maintain tool boards and visual management boards and conduct daily 5S audits
- Participate in GEMBA walks and review operational performance metrics
- Engage in Lean manufacturing initiatives and continuous improvement activities
- Perform additional duties as assigned by management

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience

- High school diploma or equivalent required
- 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment with leadership responsibilities
- Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered

Skills & Knowledge

- Ability to read a tape measure preferred (training provided)
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Outlook, etc.)
- Knowledge of OSHA safety concepts and manufacturing processes
- Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement experience preferred
- Window or door manufacturing experience preferred

Key Competencies

- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Ability to effectively lead and direct team members
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- Collaborative mindset and experience working in team-based environments
- Excellent time management and adaptability in a fast-paced environment
- Customer-focused with a strong sense of urgency
- Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, and procedure manuals
- Strong verbal and written communication skills

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

- Occasional travel may be required to assist at other company locations.