Production Supervisor (2nd Shift)

Job Title: Production Supervisor (2nd Shift)
Work location: Chicago, IL
Salary: $71,000 - $80,000
Experience level: Mid-Senior
Experience required: 5 Years
Education level: High school or equivalent
Job function: Production
Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain

Reporting to the Production Manager, the Production Supervisor is responsible for leading daily manufacturing operations with primary oversight of the Weld Department, including MIG, TIG, and robotic welding processes.
This role ensures production targets, quality standards, safety requirements, and delivery commitments are met while supporting cross-functional coordination across assembly, testing, and finishing operations.
The Production Supervisor drives operational efficiency, workforce development, and continuous improvement initiatives while maintaining a safe and productive work environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Production & Scheduling:
• Supervise daily production activities with primary responsibility for weld operations.
• Ensure production schedules are met across welding booths, robotic cells, and downstream processes.
• Balance labor and workflow to eliminate bottlenecks and maintain throughput.
• Coordinate with Planning, Quality, and Maintenance to resolve production challenges.
• Monitor and report daily performance metrics including output, efficiency, rework, and on-time delivery.

Weld Department Oversight:
• Support weld quality initiatives and work closely with Quality and CWI personnel.
• Oversee setup and operation of MIG, TIG, and robotic welding systems.
• Identify opportunities to improve arc-on time, reduce rework, and optimize weld cell utilization.
• Assist with weld process troubleshooting and corrective actions.

Quality & Compliance:
• Promote adherence to company quality standards and applicable codes (AWS, ASME, ISO, etc.).
• Ensure first-article inspections and in-process checks are completed.
• Lead corrective actions for non-conformance within the department.
• Maintain documentation and production records as required.

Safety & Environmental:
• Enforce all OSHA and company safety policies.
• Ensure proper PPE usage and safe welding practices.
• Monitor ventilation and fume extraction systems within weld areas.
• Conduct regular safety meetings and address hazards promptly.
Leadership & Team Management:
• Supervise, coach, and develop production employees, including welders and operators.
• Support hiring, onboarding, and training efforts.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing feedback.
• Manage scheduling, attendance, overtime, and staffing levels.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Continuous Improvement:
Lead Lean initiatives including 5S, workflow improvements, and waste reduction.
• Track and analyze KPIs such as productivity, scrap rates, and labor efficiency.
• Recommend equipment upgrades and process enhancements.
• Support cross-training efforts to build workforce flexibility.

QUALIFICATIONS:
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical or trade school education is preferred.
• 5+ years of manufacturing experience, with significant exposure to welding operations.
• 2+ years of supervisory experience in a production environment.
Experience in a high-mix or high-volume manufacturing environment preferred.

TECHNICAL SKILLS:
• Strong understanding of MIG, TIG, and robotic welding processes.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and weld symbols.
Knowledge of WPS/PQR documentation preferred.
• Familiarity with ERP systems and production reporting tools.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:
• Strong organizational and decision-making skills.
• Effective communicator across all levels of the organization.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Data-driven mindset with focus on measurable results.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Ability to spend extended periods on the production floor.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally.
• Exposure to industrial manufacturing conditions including heat, noise, and welding environments.