What are the responsibilities and job description for the Production Supervisor position at Whitney Blake Company?
POSITION SUMMARY
The Production Supervisor provides hands-on leadership to manufacturing teams to ensure safe, efficient and high‑quality production. This role oversees both manual and machine-based manufacturing processes while driving continuous improvement. The Supervisor ensures production jobs run to standard or better, implementing Lean tools such as 5S, one-piece flow and root-cause problem solving. Works collaboratively with Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance to resolve equipment, tooling and process issues.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Supervise daily activities of production personnel and oversee all manufacturing and supporting operations.
- Drive a quality-centric culture by resolving issues promptly and implementing robust preventive measures.
- Apply sound troubleshooting methodologies in the investigation and corrective action of root cause as they pertain to equipment, processes and/or product.
- Utilize basic data analysis methodologies with production performance data collection initiatives throughout manufacturing to identify productivity improvement, support waste reduction opportunities and to reduce variability.
- Oversee both manual assembly and machine-based production processes, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
- Support deployment of one-piece flow, visual management, standard work, and 5S in all work areas.
- Train employees, assign work, provide coaching, and evaluate performance.
- Prepare and maintain production documentation including specifications, change requests, deviations, and SOPs.
- Optimize labor utilization and recommend staffing adjustments aligned with production schedules.
- Communicate effectively across operational disciplines and maintain strong cross-functional partnerships.
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment consistent with Lean 5S expectations.
- Promote positive team culture, high morale, and open communication.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Understanding of company policies and business practices including industry standards, Good Manufacturing Practices, ISO requirements, and health and safety requirements.
- Strong understanding of Lean manufacturing principles including 5S, value-stream mapping, standard work, one-piece flow, and continuous improvement.
- Team player capable of successfully interacting at all levels with peers, seniors & subordinates in the successful resolution of day-to-day business issues.
- Proficient at using data to assess performance and drive improvement.
- Strong communication, interpersonal and organizational skills. Possess the ability to teach others effectively.
- Capability to work independently, handle changing priorities and short time constraints.
- Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, and diagram or schedule form.
- Possess strong written and verbal communication skills necessary for leading others.
- Strong work ethic with reliable attendance and professional presentation.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in technical discipline. Experience may be considered in lieu of a degree for a candidate who can demonstrate capable of successfully fulfilling all duties and responsibilities of the position.
- 5 years of experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
- Proven experience with Lean manufacturing, including 5S and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Experience working with both manual and machine-based production processes.
- Ability to work hours, as required, that are appropriate to completing projects and tasks on schedule.
COMPUTER SKILLS
- Proficient computer skills: MS Windows, MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Have a good working knowledge of MRP/ERP systems.
SUPERVISORY REQUIREMENTS
- Direct supervisory requirements, approximately 20 manufacturing associates.
- Responsible for workflow, training for new employees, and answering job-related questions.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- Manufacturing: Work involves use of manufacturing equipment or proximity to equipment. May be exposure to some routine manufacturing related substances.
- Recurring physical demands include sitting, standing, walking, crouching and use of tools or computer systems
- Location: Bellows Falls, Vermont. Supports General Manufacturing hours: 1st shift 6:00am – 2:30pm
- Key Stakeholders: Executive Leadership Team, Sales, Engineering, Quality, Operations
- Travel; Limited travel < 5%.
This description is representative of the knowledge, skill and ability necessary to carry out the requirements of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties of the job.
Salary : $70,000 - $85,000