The Second Shift Supervisor (3:30pm-2:00am) is responsible for overseeing all manufacturing, assembly, material handling, and warehouse operations during second shift within a sheet metal fabrication plant. This role ensures safe, efficient, and high-quality production across all functional areas while meeting customer delivery requirements.
The Supervisor provides hands-on leadership, supports employees in troubleshooting production challenges, and ensures smooth communication and transition between shifts. This position plays a key role in maintaining productivity, quality standards, material flow, and team morale during off-shift operations.
Key Responsibilities:
Shift Operations Management:
- Oversee all second shift operations including laser cutting, turret punch presses, press brakes, welding, hardware insertion (PEM), assembly, finishing, material handling, and warehouse activities.
- Ensure production schedules are executed to meet on-time delivery and stocking commitments.
- Monitor workflow, staffing, machine utilization, and material flow to maximize efficiency.
- Identify bottlenecks and reallocate labor or resources as needed to maintain production flow.
- Ensure proper shift turnover communication with first shift leadership.
Material Handling & Warehouse Oversight:
- Supervise second shift material handlers and warehouse personnel.
- Ensure timely movement of raw materials, WIP, and finished goods to support production schedules.
- Oversee receiving (if applicable), internal material transfers, staging, and shipping preparation.
- Ensure accurate inventory transactions and proper material identification.
- Coordinate with Production and Shipping to ensure orders are staged and ready to meet required delivery dates.
- Maintain organization, cleanliness, and safety standards within warehouse areas.
Employee Support & Floor Leadership:
- Actively assist employees in resolving manufacturing issues, equipment challenges, material shortages, and quality concerns.
- Provide hands-on guidance in machine setup, fabrication techniques, assembly processes, and troubleshooting.
- Serve as the primary decision-maker for operational issues during second shift.
- Promote teamwork, accountability, and a positive work environment.
- Address attendance, performance, and behavioral concerns in alignment with company policies.
Quality & Continuous Improvement:
- Ensure adherence to blueprints, work instructions, and quality standards.
- Partner with Quality personnel to address non-conformances and implement corrective actions.
- Monitor scrap, rework, and productivity metrics.
- Support lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Ensure proper documentation of production, inventory, and quality records.
Safety & Compliance:
- Enforce all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and company policies.
- Conduct routine safety observations and correct unsafe behaviors immediately.
- Ensure machinery and material handling equipment are operated safely.
- Report incidents and participate in root cause investigations as needed.
Communication & Coordination:
- Communicate production status, staffing issues, inventory concerns, and equipment downtime to management.
- Coordinate with Maintenance to address equipment issues.
- Work closely with Materials Management to ensure proper inventory control and replenishment.
- Maintain clear communication with team members regarding goals, expectations, and performance.
Qualifications:
Education & Experience:
- High school diploma or GED required; technical training or trade certification preferred.
- 5+ years of experience in sheet metal fabrication, assembly, or warehouse operations.
- 2+ years of supervisory or team leadership experience preferred.
Technical Skills:
- Strong knowledge of fabrication equipment including laser cutting, turret punch presses, press brakes, welding (MIG/TIG), and hardware insertion.
- Understanding of material flow and warehouse operations in a manufacturing environment.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and inventory transactions.
- Basic mechanical and equipment troubleshooting skills.
Leadership Competencies:
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Hands-on leadership style with a willingness to assist on the floor.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities during off-shift hours.
- Commitment to safety, quality, and team development.
Work Environment:
- Manufacturing and warehouse environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and metal fabrication processes.
- Frequent standing, walking, and occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs).
- Interaction with forklifts and other material handling equipment.
- Second shift hours with flexibility to support production demands.