Machine Shop Supervisor

About the role

The main function of the Machine Shop Supervisor is to lead, coordinate, and participate hands-on in all machining activities within the lighting factory. The role involves overseeing the operation of aluminium machining and metalworking equipment, planning daily work tasks, and ensuring that all machining operations meet quality and efficiency standards. This is a hands-on working supervisor role that requires an experienced artisan (fitter or equivalent) with strong leadership abilities. The machine shop produces primarily aluminium components used in the manufacturing of commercial and industrial lighting fittings.

Key Performance Areas:

Machine Shop Operations Operate and supervise the use of machining equipment including welding units, saws (automatic/manual), copy routers, drill presses, milling machines, and general machine shop equipment. Set up and maintain equipment for efficient and accurate production. Ensure safe operation and maintenance of equipment and tools.

Team Supervision & Tasking Allocate daily tasks to machine operators. Provide on-the-job guidance, coaching, and problem-solving. Monitor productivity and quality of subordinates' output. Support the professional development of machine shop staff.

Quality Control & Production Support Ensure that all workpieces meet required specifications and tolerances. Identify and rectify quality issues. Assist in the development and implementation of continuous improvement initiatives.

Health, Safety & Housekeeping Enforce health and safety regulations. Ensure safe working environment and compliance with company policies. Maintain a clean, organized workshop.

Planning & Reporting Plan machining work according to production schedules. Report material or tooling shortages. Contribute to weekly and monthly production reports.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL & ABILITY REQUIREMENTS

Required:
· Recognised Trade Certificate (Artisan) as Fitter, Fitter and Turner, Toolmaker, or similar mechanical trade. · 

· Minimum 6 years' hands-on experience in a machine shop environment, with at least 2 years at a supervisory or lead artisan level.

· Strong technical ability with machining aluminium and other light metals. 

· Experience operating and maintaining manual and automatic machining equipment.

· Practical knowledge of aluminium welding, saws, routers, milling, drilling, and other fabrication processes.

· Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and work instructions.

· Sound understanding of health and safety regulations related to a machine shop environment.

· Good organizational skills and ability to prioritize and delegate tasks.

Advantageous: 

· Previous experience in a manufacturing environment for lighting or similar industries.

· CNC machine programming or operation knowledge.

· Supervisory training or leadership certification.

PERSONAL COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS

· Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and develop a team.

· Good verbal and written communication skills.

· High level of attention to detail and commitment to quality.

· Strong problem-solving ability.

· Professional, diligent, and proactive work attitude.

· Computer literacy – basic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel).

· Ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines.

· Willingness to be hands-on and lead by example.