Machine Shop Team Leader

Team Leader - Machine Shop

Location : Whitstable, Kent

Salary : £37,000 - £39,000 per annum

Hours : 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday

We're seeking an experienced Machine Shop Team Leader to join a leading engineering and manufacturing organisation based in Whitstable.

This hands‑on supervisory role is key to ensuring the smooth day‑to‑day running of the production area - coordinating workloads, maintaining quality standards, and leading a skilled team to meet operational targets.

As a Machine Shop Team Leader, you'll work closely with the Production Manager, overseeing manufacturing performance, drive continuous improvement, and ensure KPIs such as on‑time delivery, quality, and efficiency are consistently achieved.

• Lead and coordinate a team of Operators to meet daily production targets.
• Plan workloads and allocate resources to achieve KPI objectives (On‑Time Delivery, Quality, Arrears, and Efficiency).
• Maintain high standards of health, safety, and housekeeping, ensuring all processes and risk assessments are current.
• Manage team performance including attendance, training, and development.
• Monitor and report on production metrics, facilitating problem‑solving and process improvements.
• Conduct team briefs, toolbox talks, and ensure clear communication across the department.
• Oversee quality performance, including scrap, rework, and non‑conformance management.
• Act as deputy for the Production Manager when required.

• Proven experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Previous supervisory or team leadership experience.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production planning, and quality systems.
• Excellent organisational and problem‑solving skills.
• Confident communicator with strong people management ability.
• Knowledge of Health & Safety, including Risk Assessments and COSHH.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and familiar with MRP / ERP systems.
• Ability to read CAD drawings and conduct first‑off inspections.

• Experience deputising for a Production Manager.
• Familiarity with 5S / Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Experience with training matrices, recruitment, and performance management