Team Leader I

Were Hiring: Team Leader 3rd Shift

Location: Torrance, CA

Company: Pelican Products, Inc.

Who We Are

At Pelican, we engineer products that stand up to the world's toughest conditions-because the people who rely on us do too. For nearly 50 years, we've been a trusted partner for military personnel, first responders, outdoor adventurers, and innovators who push the limits.

With a global presence that includes 11 offices, 4 manufacturing facilities, and 4 custom case centers, we create high-performance protective solutions that ensure our customers can focus on what matters most. Whether it's transporting critical medical supplies, securing mission-essential equipment, or keeping expedition gear safe, Pelican products are Built to Protect to Equip for the Mission.

At Pelican, your work has a real-world impact. You'll be part of a team driven by innovation, craftsmanship, and the shared belief that when the mission is critical, failure isn't an option. If you're ready to build something that makes a difference, be part of a team that protects what matters most.

What You'll Do:

The Team Leader is responsible for leading a team of Associates and directing workflow through all aspects of the production process. Operates all machinery within the department and provides ongoing training, cross-training, and direction to team members to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality operations. Expected to be cross-trained and fully functional across all manufacturing departments and to rotate across departments as required by business needs.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversees daily production activities and directs workflow to ensure schedules, quality standards, and safety requirements are met.
• Trains and cross-trains team members across all departmental functions and maintains working knowledge of all jobs performed.
• Monitors production performance, identifies barriers to meeting schedules, and coordinates problem-solving efforts with team members.
• Ensures quality and standardized work are built into production processes and consistently followed.
• Drives continuous improvement initiatives and identifies opportunities to eliminate non-value-added activities using Lean principles.
• Coordinates and adjusts labor coverage, including break coverage, absenteeism, and downtime, to maintain operational efficiency.
• Oversees work performance and provides ongoing coaching and feedback; communicates performance data and concerns to the supervisor/manager.
• Manages production start-up, process control, and changeover activities.
• Coordinates material flow to and from production lines to support uninterrupted operations.
• Facilitates clear communication between shifts and serves as a communication link between management and team members.
• Initiates and tracks maintenance work orders and escalates equipment or safety concerns as needed.
• Ensures compliance with safety guidelines, company policies, and procedures.
• Facilitates small group improvement activities and supports operational initiatives.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Minimum six (6) months of demonstrated experience leading, training, mentoring, or guiding others, gained through formal or informal leadership, acting lead, or trainer roles.
• Demonstrated experience in a manufacturing or operational environment, with the ability to learn, apply, and adapt to production processes across departments.
• Ability to guide, train, and support team members through clear instruction and ongoing feedback.
• Ability to operate, or quickly learn to operate, power equipment and hand tools such as saws, drills, routers, and heat guns.
• Ability to clearly communicate and comprehend work instructions, training materials, safety requirements, and performance feedback, both verbally and in writing.
• Working knowledge of safe work practices with the ability to recognize, address, and escalate unsafe conditions.
• Ability to work across departments and adjust to changing production demands.
• Basic proficiency with computer-based systems, including Microsoft Office; ERP system experience preferred.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• While performing the essential functions of this position, the employee will frequently be required to perform standard physical activities such as standing, walking, sitting, and using hands and fingers to operate or handle objects.
• The employee may also be required to perform non-standard physical activities including climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, and crouching.
• The employee must have the ability to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds frequently and up to 40 pounds occasionally in accordance with job requirements.

Compensation & Benefits:

Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several U.S. geographic markets. Base pay is one part of our total compensation package and is determined within a range. This provides the opportunity to progress as you grow and develop within a role. The annual U.S. pay range for this position is listed below. Pay within this range varies by work location and may also depend on your qualifications, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for the job location during the hiring process. We also offer a comprehensive package of benefits, including paid time off, 10 paid holidays per year, medical/dental/vision insurance, company-paid life and disability plans, and matching 401k to eligible employees.

Pelican Products, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.