Production Line Lead

Production Line LeaderLocation: Cleveland, OHBusiness Unit: Team WendyShift: 1st, 2nd (with differential pay)POSITION SUMMARYThe Manufacturing Operator Lead serves as the on-floor leader for a production team, balancing hands-on equipment operation with the coordination, coaching, and oversight required to keep a manufacturing line running safely, efficiently, and to specification. This role partners closely with operators, technicians, supervisors, and quality personnel to monitor work schedules, lead troubleshooting efforts, drive continuous improvement, and ensure every shift meets production, quality, and safety targets. The Lead is a working team member who sets the standard for performance, follows established procedures, and keeps management informed of progress, risks, and results in critical operational areas.Key ResponsibilitiesProduction Oversight & SchedulingEquipment Operation & MonitoringTroubleshooting & Problem-SolvingTeam Leadership & Work ManagementQuality & Continuous ImprovementSafety & ComplianceCommunication & ReportingRequired QualificationsHigh school diploma or GED.Prior experience in a manufacturing, production, or assembly environment.Demonstrated experience operating and monitoring production equipment such as assembly line machinery, CNC equipment, or injection molding presses.Working knowledge of quality control practices and the ability to read and interpret product specifications.Ability to lead, coach, and direct the work of others in a team-based environment.Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with a methodical, data-informed approach.Solid written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to keep leadership informed of status and issues.Ability to work assigned shifts, including overtime and weekends, as production requires.Preferred QualificationsTwo or more years of progressive experience in a lead, group leader, or team lead capacity within a manufacturing setting.Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Statistical Process Control (SPC) concepts; formal certification (e.g., Six Sigma Yellow or Green Belt) a plus.Experience supporting continuous improvement projects and structured problem-solving methodologies (e.g., 5 Whys, A3, DMAIC).Knowledge of material properties relevant to the production environment (e.g., polymers, metals, composites).Forklift, overhead crane, or similar equipment certifications, where applicable.Skills & CompetenciesTechnicalMachine and equipment operationEquipment management and monitoringCNC operationInjection moldingAssembly line machinery operationStatistical Process Control (SPC)Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing principlesQuality control and product specification interpretationKnowledge of material properties and manufacturing processesLeadership & BehavioralWorkplace safety leadershipStaff management and coachingDecision making under operational pressureTroubleshooting and problem-solvingEffective communication across shifts and functionsIndustry knowledge and continuous learning orientationPhysical Requirements & Work EnvironmentAbility to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods throughout the shift.Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.Ability to work in a manufacturing environment that may include exposure to noise, varying temperatures, dust, and machinery in motion.Consistent use of required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed footwear.Reporting Relationship & ClassificationReports to: Production Supervisor / Manufacturing ManagerDirect reports: None (functional lead role with responsibility for directing the work of operators on shift)Job Category: Operative — semi-skilled individual contributor; role typically requires limited training (a few months maximum) and works in roles such as food processors, assemblers, and operators of machinery, equipment, and vehicles.FLSA Status: Non-exempt (to be confirmed by HR based on local classification rules)