Shop Lead

Description

One of our clients is currently seeking a Shop Lead to join our production team on a contract-to-hire basis. This is a hands‑on leadership role supporting the daily operations of the shop floor. The Shop Lead will work closely with operators, technicians, and supervisors to ensure production goals are met safely, efficiently, and to quality standards.

Location:

Richmond, VA

Pay: $25–27 an hour

Duration:
Contract to direct

• Assist the Shop Supervisor in overseeing day‑to‑day production activities within your assigned department.
• Lead a small team of operators – delegate tasks, provide direction, and ensure work orders are completed accurately and on time.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work area in accordance with 5S standards.
• Monitor product quality throughout the production process and communicate issues to supervisors or quality teams.
• Support training of new team members and help promote consistent work practices across the team.
• Track daily performance metrics and provide feedback to the supervisor on production progress or potential delays.
• Troubleshoot minor equipment or process issues to keep operations running smoothly.
• Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and quality departments to address production challenges.
• Encourage teamwork, communication, and accountability across the shop floor.

• 3+ years of experience working in a manufacturing, fabrication, or production environment.
• Previous experience in a lead or senior operator role – able to coordinate small teams and drive workflow.
• Strong understanding of safety and quality standards in a production setting.
• Ability to read work orders, follow instructions, and ensure jobs meet specifications.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to lead by example and earn team respect.
• Mechanically inclined; comfortable in a hands‑on environment.
• Willingness to work flexible hours or overtime as needed to support production goals.