Role Overview
The Sheet Metal Production Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of sheet metal
manufacturing, including production planning, workflow coordination, design oversight, and team
leadership. This role ensures efficient operations across multiple departments, adherence to quality
standards, and continuous improvement in processes and productivity.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee sheet metal production operations including Laser Cutting, Tube Laser Cutting, Punching,
bending (sheet and tube bending), Laser Welding, TiG, CO₂ and Spot Welding & Fabrication, Paint, Shot
Blast, Cleaning and Polishing and the Final QC Inspection.
- Plan materials and manage procurement to optimize stock levels and reduce waste.
- Maintain daily and monthly production schedules to meet deadlines.
- Manage the entre operational process and ensure consistent finish quality.
- Collaborate with engineering and design teams to prepare and launch jobs smoothly.
- Lead production meetings, resolve technical challenges, and maintain compliance with health and safety standards.
- Mentor and develop team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Implement quality control measures and monitor adherence to specifications.
- Maintain the fabrication machinery maintenance schedules to ensure limited down time caused by breakdowns.
Design & Engineering Oversight
- Collaborate with the engineering and design teams, ensuring completed drawings are accurate, manufacturable, and delivered on me.
- Work closely with designers to resolve manufacturing challenges, improve drawings, and optimize part design.
Technical Problem-Solving
- Support troubleshooting on CNC operations (laser, punch, bending), Tube laser cutting and laser welding issues, Programming or drawing errors, Material mismatches or shortages, Tooling issues in sheet metal, bending, and CNC environments.
- Work with design to correct or optimize drawings and reduce reworks.
Team Leadership
- Manage production staff compliment, including operators, setters, and team leaders.
- Conduct morning start-up meetings to align teams on priorities and challenges.
- Provide guidance, coaching, and technical support throughout the day.
- Address bottlenecks, skill gaps, and production interruptions in real me.
Quality & Compliance
- Ensure all work meets internal quality standards and ISO 9001 expectations.
- Resolve quality issues by assessing root causes and implementing corrective actions.
Planning & Administration
- Review order book and forecast workloads for upcoming days, weeks and months.
- Maintain communication with management regarding capacity, shutdown periods, and required overtime.
- Approve production adjustments, rework, or trial runs.
- Ensure correct materials are stocked and coordinate with procurement for special material requirements.
Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve machine utilization, streamline workflows, and implement safer or more efficient methods.
- Use technical background (sheet metal, Welding and CNC experience) to improve manufacturability and processes.
Required Skills & Competencies
- 15 Years or more knowledge of sheet metal fabrication processes as listed above.
- 5 Years or more sheet metal production management experience.
- Welding operations oversight (TiG, CO₂, spot and laser welding).
- Proficiency in CNC machinery, press brakes, laser cutting, and welding processes.
- Strong knowledge of CAD/CAM soCware (Solid Edge and Worx experience preferred)
- Leadership and team development skills.
- Excellent problem-solving and deadline management abili es.
- Familiarity with health and safety compliance.
Education & Experience
- Matric or equivalent (Technical qualification preferred).
- 15+ years in sheet metal manufacturing, with at least 5 years in managerial role.
- Proven experience in production planning, design collaboration, and process improvement.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- On-Time Delivery Rate: ≥95%
- Produc on Output vs Plan: ≥98%
- Defect Rate: ≤1%
- Material Waste Reduc on: ≤5%
- Safety Audit Score: 100%
Department: Sheet Metal Workshop
Reports To: Operations Director
Salary: Market Related. Dependent on Experience and Criteria Listed Above.
Benefits: Provident Fund and Disability Life Cover
Pay: R30 000,00 - R50 000,00 per month
Work Location: In person
