Material Handler - Team Lead

Team Lead

The Team Lead ensures materials are delivered accurately and on time to support production, inventory is maintained accurately, equipment is operated safely, and warehouse and production storage areas meet 5S standards. The position works closely with Production, Purchasing, Shipping, Receiving, and other departments to identify and resolve material shortages, inventory discrepancies, and workflow issues. This position serves as a working team lead, providing direction and support to Material Handlers while continuing to perform material handling responsibilities.

• Provide daily direction, guidance, and support to Material Handlers.
• Coordinate daily material handling activities based on production requirements and priorities.
• Ensure team members understand work assignments, priorities, and expectations.
• Monitor workflow and redistribute work as needed to maintain efficient material flow.
• Serve as the first point of contact for Material Handlers regarding daily operational questions or concerns.
• Help hold team members accountable for following company policies, procedures, and work expectations.
• Assist with training and cross-training Material Handlers on equipment, processes, inventory procedures, and safety requirements.
• Lead by example and promote a positive, respectful, and accountable team environment.

• Safely transport materials, components, and products throughout the plant using forklifts, pallet jacks, carts, or other approved equipment.
• Coordinate timely delivery of materials to production lines to prevent downtime.
• Load and unload incoming and outgoing shipments.
• Verify materials received match purchase orders, packing slips, or transfer documents.
• Stage materials for production, shipping, or storage as needed.
• Monitor material flow throughout the facility and identify potential shortages or delays.
• Communicate material shortages, delivery issues, or production concerns to supervisors and appropriate departments.

• Ensure accurate inventory transactions through scanning systems, ERP transactions, or manual logs.
• Coordinate and participate in routine cycle counts and physical inventory audits.
• Investigate and report inventory discrepancies, shortages, or damaged materials.
• Ensure materials are properly labeled and stored in designated locations.
• Assist with year-end or scheduled full inventory counts.
• Ensure team members follow established inventory control procedures.

• Maintain clean, safe, and organized warehouse and production storage areas.
• Lead the Material Handling team in following 5S principles:
  Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain.
• Conduct routine checks of assigned areas to ensure 5S standards are maintained.
• Identify opportunities to improve storage layout, material flow, and workplace efficiency.
• Ensure waste, clutter, and unsafe conditions are promptly addressed.
• Encourage team members to identify and implement continuous improvement opportunities.

• Promote a strong safety culture and lead by example in all material handling activities.
• Ensure team members follow PPE requirements, plant safety rules, and established procedures.
• Perform and/or ensure completion of daily forklift and equipment inspections.
• Report equipment maintenance concerns promptly.
• Immediately report accidents, near misses, unsafe conditions, or safety concerns to the appropriate Supervisor or Manager.
• Assist with reinforcing safe work practices and correcting unsafe behaviors.

• Work closely with Purchasing, Shipping, Receiving, Production, Quality, and other departments to maintain efficient material flow.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to inventory control, material flow, warehouse organization, and production support.
• Identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to material handling processes.
• Support implementation of standardized work and improved material handling procedures.
• Cross-train in other warehouse and logistics functions as needed.
• Maintain open and effective communication with team members and…