LEAD Shift Supervisor

Location: Just outside of Chicago, IL
Department: Molding Operations
Reports To: Plant Manager

OVERALL ROLE

This position is responsible for the direct supervision of assigned molding plant(s) and all employees on the shift. The Lead Shift Supervisor is accountable for overall operational efficiency and the quality of parts produced during their shift. Responsibilities include training and mentoring employees, maintaining a clean and orderly work environment in accordance with 5S standards, and enforcing safety policies. The role also serves as a technical and operational resource to other plants on the shift regarding safety, security, resource allocation, and troubleshooting.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervisory

• Supervise molding operations on the assigned shift.

• Ensure efficient use of personnel, machines, materials, and auxiliary equipment across assigned plant(s).

• Enforce company policies, rules, and regulations.

• Conduct performance evaluations and recommend promotions, transfers, and pay adjustments when appropriate.

• Partner with Human Resources on disciplinary actions, employee concerns, and terminations.

• Serve as first responder during emergencies; AED trained.

• Perform scheduled security walk-throughs and ensure building and personnel safety.

• Maintain responsibility for overall building security during the shift.

• Complete accurate accident and incident reports.

Production / Quality

• Plan production runs based on scheduling requirements and assign work based on employee skill sets.

• Perform mold changes, setups, and color changes as required.

• Set and adjust molding process parameters to ensure consistent part quality.

• Monitor production for efficiency and accuracy; collaborate with quality personnel to identify defects.

• Troubleshoot molding processes, machinery, and auxiliary equipment at an advanced level to minimize downtime and scrap.

• Act as technical expert on molding machines and related equipment.

• Ensure accurate production reporting, including inventory transactions, scrap, and daily output.

• Recommend process, quality, and safety improvements to plant leadership.

Training

• Train shift employees to ensure competency across all positions and skill levels.

• Champion safety through consistent training and enforcement.

• Lead 5S and housekeeping initiatives to maintain a clean and organized facility.

• Complete internal technical training to support and resource other plants as needed.

• Maintain regular, predictable, on-site attendance.

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS

• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• Maintain a professional and respectful work environment.

• Continuously develop job-related skills and support continuous improvement initiatives.

• Comply with all safety regulations and maintain orderly work areas.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Stand or walk for most of the shift.

• Frequently bend, kneel, crouch, and climb.

• Occasionally sit, twist, push, and pull.

• Occasionally lift up to 75 lbs at or above waist and shoulder level.

• Perform repetitive hand, wrist, and finger movements, including keyboarding.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

• 5+ years of experience in injection molding processes, machines, and tooling.

• 1+ year of supervisory or team-lead experience.

• Strong setup, troubleshooting, and advanced processing knowledge preferred.

• Ability to read and write English and follow written and verbal instructions.

• Mechanical aptitude with solid math skills; experience with hand and power tools.

• Proficiency with PC applications, including Microsoft Office.

• Experience with manufacturing ERP systems preferred.

• Demonstrated leadership, time management, and problem-solving skills.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

This organization is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to protected characteristics.