3 Manufacturing jobs in Heidelberg

OBJECTIVE

Manufacturing Team Leader supervises day-to-day shop floor production, ensuring safe, high-quality output and smooth workflow while giving hands-on guidance to CNC Operators, Bandsaw Operators, and Welders.

Core responsibilities include monitoring line performance, maintaining safety standards, checking product quality at each stage, and coordinating manpower to keep the line balanced. The position is rooted in practical floor supervision, with three key focus areas: quality of output, effective use of people and resources, and reliable material availability.

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Team Leadership, Coordination & Supervision

• Supervise and coordinate daily activities of CNC Operators, Bandsaw Operators, and Welders.
• Allocate tasks according to operator skillsets and production priorities.
• Monitor team performance on the line, giving guidance, coaching, and immediate feedback to keep productivity on target.
• Hold short toolbox talks or huddles to update the team on targets, safety reminders, and issues from the previous shift.

Production Control & Materials Flow

• Follow the production plan and ensure jobs are completed in sequence without delays.
• Make sure raw materials are staged at machines, preventing downtime caused by shortages.
• Reassign operators to different tasks when bottlenecks appear, keeping workflow smooth.
• Use basic visual tools (Kanban, boards, labels) to track progress and keep work organized.
• Confirm completed jobs in the ERP system (backflushing) so material consumption and finished goods stock are updated accurately.
• Oversee the Production Kitting station: ensure kits are prepared, staged, and correctly tagged (red = incomplete, green = ready) before production starts.

Quality & Compliance

• Act as first-line QC: check parts at each stage to ensure they meet specifications.
• Stop and correct defects immediately to prevent rework or scrap moving downstream.
• Record inspection results and escalate persistent quality issues to the Production Manager.

Safety & Maintenance

• Enforce PPE use, safe machine handling, and hazard awareness on the line.
• Stop unsafe practices immediately and report incidents or near misses.
• Check that operators follow basic maintenance routines (e.g., machine cleaning, oiling, tool changes) and escalate faults to Maintenance when needed.

Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Collect and review daily production numbers from operators, ensuring accuracy.
• Update and maintain production boards daily, reflecting output, targets, bottlenecks, and any shortages to keep the team informed and aligned.
• Submit daily production reports to the Warehouse/Production Manager.
• Encourage operators to suggest improvements in setup, handling, or workflow, and support small changes that improve efficiency.
• Support cross-training and skills development within the team to build flexibility.

Dependence
: Reports to the Warehouse/Production Manager and operates under broad production objectives, using practical judgment to keep the line running efficiently

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Training:
Technical qualification in manufacturing/engineering; safety or quality certifications are an advantage.

Experience
: 5+ years in manufacturing, with at least 2 years in a team leader or supervisory role. Must have hands-on experience in CNC machining, welding, or cutting.

Minimum Remunation:
R120 p/h - R130 p/h

• Grade 12
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in an extrusion plant operation (FMCG/Food Manufacturing/ Agricultural sector).
• From intake to final product, including packing, warehouse and stock control.
• Pest Control Fumigation Certificate from an accredited training provider - DAFF Certification (p-number) including:
  • Structural Pest Control (Commercial & Domestic)
  • Fumigation Bag, Bulk & Structure
• GFSI training certificate or equivalent
• Valid Drivers License

• Milling qualification (GMF/SAGMA Modules with practical trade test)
• Safety certificates:
  • OHS Safety Rep
  • First Aid
  • Fire Fighting
  • Working at Heights
  • Confined Spaces
• Forklift Drivers License

• Oversee and support the full production cycle from raw material intake to finished product dispatch.
• Implement and uphold the companys Continuous Improvement Process (CIP).
• Ensure product and packing efficiency, quality, and profitability, with a focus on waste reduction and environmental goals.
• Enforce a strict zero-tolerance pest control policy and maintain hygiene standards.
• Monitor equipment efficiency, lifespan, and maintenance schedules to ensure optimal performance.
• Support staff management across their lifecycle in the organization (hire to retire).
• Ensure a safe, compliant, and productive work environment.
• Assist with budgeting, cost control, and loss control accountability.
• Guarantee all products meet customer, company, food safety, and legal specifications.

• FSSC or equivalent food safety system; Health & Safety Management; Hygiene Auditing and Pest Control
• Investigative & Problem Solving
• Lab Equipment Handling
• Mechanical & Electrical (basic)
• Strong Computer Literacy; Verbal and Written Communication
• People & General Management
• Leadership and Service Provider Relationship Management
• Budgeting & Cost Control
• Planning and Negotiation Skills

• Analytical thinking and attention to detail
• Positive, assertive, and structured mindset
• Customer service orientation and ethical behaviour
• Drive for continuous improvement and productivity
• Proactive and deadline-driven approach
• Ability to complete tasks independently and work under pressure
• Clear, open, and honest communication
• Conflict management skills
• Environmental impact awareness