Machine Shop Team Leader

Machine Shop Team Leader

Poole

Role Overview

We are recruiting on behalf of a well-regarded client for a strong people leader to oversee machine shop operations across shift patterns, including out-of-hours working. This role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and high-performing production that meets business KPIs and delivery targets.

The successful candidate will lead from the front - driving operational excellence, maintaining high safety standards, and building a capable, engaged team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and manage shift-based teams to achieve daily and weekly production targets
• Ensure safe working practices, maintaining up-to-date risk and COSHH assessments
• Promote a strong health, safety, and wellbeing culture across all shifts
• Coordinate labour and resources to maximise machine shop utilisation
• Deliver consistent on-time performance in partnership with Planning
• Drive Continuous Improvement initiatives using Lean manufacturing principles
• Lead root cause investigations for quality issues, accidents, or near misses
• Maintain high equipment standards through proactive maintenance practices
• Conduct daily shift briefings and toolbox talks
• Monitor KPIs, communicate performance expectations, and implement improvement plans
• Manage attendance, performance, employee development, and training requirements
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and performance reviews
• Ensure Standard Operating Procedures are maintained and followed
• Take responsibility for site opening/closing and emergency call-outs when required

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience leading teams within a manufacturing or machine shop environment
• Strong knowledge of CNC machining and programming
• Sound understanding of Lean manufacturing and Continuous Improvement tools
• Demonstrable experience improving performance against KPIs
• Confident handling employee relations and performance management matters
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills
• Ability to remain calm and decisive under pressure
• Good IT skills and confidence using standard office software
• Clear and effective communication skills

What this role can offer

• A leadership role with real operational impact
• Opportunity to drive measurable improvements
• A collaborative environment focused on continuous improvement
• Scope to develop and strengthen your leadership capability
• Parking on site
• Inclusive forward- thinking business
• A business who supports personal development

If you are interested in applying for this position or would like more information, please do get in touch

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