PRODUCTION LEAD - PRIMARY METAL STAMPING

SUMMARY OF ROLE

Directly supervise a team of 6-8 press operators in our Primary Stamping Department, driving safe operations, improved productivity, and high-quality production of precision metal stampings. You will serve as a working lead, balancing hands-on press operation and troubleshooting with coaching and development of your team. Your primary focus will be ensuring operators have everything they need to succeed—complete job packages, properly functioning equipment, correct tooling, and clear instructions—while developing their skills to become independent, capable press operators. You will communicate obstacles immediately to appropriate personnel and coordinate closely with the production team on priorities.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

- Minimum 5 years hands-on experience operating progressive stamping presses in the 40-150 ton range

- Demonstrated expertise troubleshooting progressive die setup/operation

- Minimum 3 years in a supervisory or lead role guiding a team in a manufacturing setting

- Experience reading blueprints, work orders, and using precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges, functional gauges)

- Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills

- Proven track record of training and developing operators on machine setup, operation, and quality procedures

- Demonstrated commitment to quality and workplace safety

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

- Experience with precision metal stampings for firearms, defense, electrical, or industrial equipment applications

- Familiarity with various steel materials (hot/cold rolled, high strength, stainless, coated)

- Experience with coil handling equipment and material condition assessment (coil set, camber, edge wave)

- Familiarity with lean manufacturing, 5S, or continuous improvement concepts

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Team Leadership & Operator Development

- Directly supervise and guide a team of 6-8 press operators, providing day-to-day direction and support

- Coach and develop junior operators to become independent, skilled press operators through structured on-the-job training and mentorship

- Train operators on proper machine operation, set-up verification, safety procedures, and quality requirements

- Cross-train operators on different operations to build versatility and bench strength

- Address employee performance and behavior issues promptly and constructively

- Constantly monitor workflow and assist the team in meeting production schedules and quality requirements

- Set up night shift operators for success with complete information, material availability, travelers, and communication of current issues

Safety

- Champion and enforce all company safety requirements including proper use of PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toe boots)

- Ensure all operators understand and follow proper safety procedures for progressive stamping operations

- Maintain safe working conditions around 40-150 ton presses and material handling equipment

Operations & Quality

- Ensure all operators have complete and correct job packages before starting work

- Verify operators understand and are completing all required operation checks and quality inspections

- Monitor production goals and run rates, addressing shortfalls proactively

- Prioritize production according to daily schedule and production meeting information

- Drive urgency in moving production to next operations (moves, first pieces, etc.)

- Ensure material availability and request material in advance to prevent production shutdowns

- Address and communicate equipment condition issues as needed

- Maintain a well-organized department with adherence to 5S standards

- Ensure all parts are properly identified at all times throughout production

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position operates on the manufacturing floor in our Primary Stamping Department. The environment involves exposure to moving mechanical parts, moderate noise levels, and typical manufacturing conditions. Use of PPE is required. This role requires significant hands-on work, standing, walking, and occasional lifting (up to 40 lbs). You will work directly with 40-150 ton progressive stamping presses and related material handling equipment.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

- Competitive hourly rate – Starting at $35/hr+ Based on experience

- Health & Dental Insurance

- 401K Plan & Profit Sharing

- Paid Time Off (Sick, Vacation, and Holidays)

- Opportunity to grow with a 50+ year family-owned company

Pay: $30.00 - $40.00 per hour

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- Dental insurance

- Health insurance

- Life insurance

- On-the-job training

- Paid time off

- Retirement plan

Work Location: In person