Overview

A production lead supports daily operations of production and manufacturing facilities for a given department. Working closely with production supervisors, they provide leadership and manage work teams while monitoring manufacturing and packaging procedures. Production leads provide effective training to all new and existing employees and ensure safety and quality standards are maintained.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Mentor and set an example for all staff on the production Floor
• Delegate daily staff assignments
• Be responsible for efficient, high-quality operation of assigned production lines
• Assist in training and monitoring of staff performance
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• Act as a point of contact on the production floor to all other departments
• Work with production supervisor to manage and prioritize staffing assignments
• Provide effective training to all new and existing staff
• Ensure that all production staff are following good manufacturing processes and safety practices
• Arrange for and train temporary and permanent staff in performance of tasks
• Report all quality, production and equipment issues plant manager
• Ensure that staff are following standard operating procedures
• Help to ensure production targets are achieved, including monitoring staffing, waste and productivity
• Ensure efficient and effective line change-overs
• Be accountable for the general operation and efficiencies of production operations
• Ensure preventative maintenance on equipment and partner with maintenance for equipment troubleshooting and repair
• Monitor product quality (including sampling and record-keeping) to ensure products meet required specifications
• Conduct spot investigations, audits and regular inspections to ensure all work is performed safely
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with employees.

What education and training is required?

A high school diploma is required for career as a production lead. Additionally, 2 years experience in an industrial setting as a production worker is required before taking on this supervisory career.

To pursue a career as an Production Lead :

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, business, personal finance, science and mathematics.

Where can I work?

Production leads are typically employed at companies that produce manufactured goods such as food production companies, equipment sales companies, chemical companies, co-ops, seed production companies, retail businesses and animal health companies.

Future Job Market / Outlook

Good

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals
• Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply
• The Distribution Business Management Association
• Trade organization for the type of product manufactured