Team Leader

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Drive efficiency, quality, and innovation on the manufacturing floor.

As a Team Leader, you’ll orchestrate diverse teams across various manufacturing processes, from assembly lines to quality control, ensuring smooth operations and continuous improvement in the ever-evolving world of production.

As a Team Leader in manufacturing, you’ll play a crucial role in bridging the gap between management and frontline workers. You’ll oversee daily operations in various areas such as production lines, quality assurance, packaging, or maintenance, depending on your specific manufacturing environment.

In this position, you’ll be responsible for coordinating team efforts, optimising processes, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Your days will involve a mix of hands-on problem-solving, performance monitoring, team coaching, and liaison with other departments to ensure seamless production flow.

You’ll use your technical knowledge of manufacturing processes, leadership skills, and familiarity with lean manufacturing principles to drive productivity and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Your work will directly impact the efficiency, quality, and output of your manufacturing facility.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

  1. Manage daily operations of your assigned area, ensuring production targets are met while maintaining quality and safety standards.
  2. Lead, motivate, and develop your team members, assigning tasks and providing guidance as needed.
  3. Identify and implement efficiency improvements in manufacturing processes.
  4. Ensure adherence to quality standards and participate in quality audits.
  5. Enforce safety regulations and promote a safety-first culture on the shop floor.
  6. Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to productivity, quality, and efficiency.
  7. Work with other departments such as maintenance, logistics, and quality assurance to ensure smooth operations.

Becoming a Team Leader in manufacturing often involves a combination of education, technical skills, and hands-on experience. Here’s a typical path:

  1. Start in an entry-level manufacturing position to learn the processes and operations.
  2. Become proficient in the specific manufacturing processes of your industry.
  3. Pursue relevant vocational education and training or higher education.
  4. Learn from experienced leaders in your organisation.
  5. Consider certifications in lean manufacturing, six sigma, or industry-specific qualifications.
  6. Look for opportunities within your current organisation or in other manufacturing companies. Research potential employers in your area via a search engine, social media or job site. Even if there are no jobs advertised with the employer you’re interested in, it can be a good idea to send a cover letter with your resume expressing your interest.
Also Known As:
  • Production Supervisor
  • Manufacturing Team Leader
  • Shop Floor Supervisor
  • Line Leader
  • Production Team Coordinator
A Quick Look
Key Skills:

Skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a team leader include:

  • Communication
  • Leadership
  • Organisation
  • Problem solving
  • Technical comprehension
Values & Attributes:

Values and attributes of anyone considering a job as a team leader include:

  • Safety-conscious
  • Communication
  • Problem solver
  • Organised
  • Technical Aptitude
  • Enterprising – “Persuader”
Recommended School Subjects:
  • Business
  • Chemistry
  • Design and Technologies (7-10)
Core School Subjects:
  • General Mathematics
  • Essential English
Related Industries

Salary Expectations

The expected salary for a Team leader can vary across different areas of manufacturing and may vary as you become more experienced.

Low
$65,000
Median
$80,000
High
$100,000

For those seeking practical skills in manufacturing leadership, Vocational Education and Training (VET) offers valuable pathways:

  • Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (BSB40520)
  • Diploma of Engineering – Advanced Trade (MEM50119)
  • Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (BSB40520)

These courses provide hands-on skills in manufacturing processes and management, often including industry placements.

Other relevant VET qualifications that can help career advancement include:

  • Certificate IV in Business (BSB40120)
  • Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420)

For a comprehensive theoretical foundation and broader career opportunities, consider pursuing a university degree:

  • Bachelor of Engineering, Science, or relevant discipline depending on area of manufacturing
  • Bachelor of Business specialising in Operations Management

These degrees provide in-depth knowledge of manufacturing principles, engineering concepts, and management theories, often including internship opportunities in manufacturing settings.

Career progression

In this role, you may have the opportunity to progress to other positions. Career progression opportunities include:

Operations Manager
Operations Manager

As an Operations Manager in manufacturing, you’ll be at the helm of production processes, aligning resources, technology, and personnel to achieve operational excellence.

– Up to $135,000 salary

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Business Manager
Business Manager

As a Business Manager, you’ll leverage data-driven insights and industry knowledge to make pivotal decisions, streamline operations, and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement.

– Up to $150,000 salary

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Chief Operating Officer
Chief Operating Officer

As Chief Operating Officer, you’ll be the driving force behind streamlined processes and peak productivity. Your strategic oversight will optimise every aspect of the manufacturing chain.

– Up to $350,000 salary

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Process Plant Manager
Process Plant Manager

Lead the charge in industrial excellence as a Process Plant Manager. Manage people, processes, and technology to drive operational efficiency, ensure product quality, and spearhead innovation in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Up to $160,000 salary

 

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Explore the general manufacturing and engineering

The general manufacturing and engineering industry is a diverse and dynamic area that forms the backbone of the country’s industrial capabilities. From precision components to large-scale machinery, this industry encompasses a wide range of activities that drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth across multiple sectors of the economy.

General manufacturing and engineering industry
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