Machining Cell Leader

Job Title:

Cell Leader (Machining Cell)

Reports to:

Production Manager

Location:

Lower Dicker, UK

The Opportunity

Our client is seeking an experienced Cell Leader to take ownership of their Machining Cell operations. This role is pivotal in ensuring that the team meets day-to-day customer requirements in Quality, Delivery, and Cost, while driving continuous improvement. You’ll oversee machining and finishing processes, motivate and develop production staff, and work closely with Planning and Purchasing to keep everything running smoothly.
If you’re passionate about leading teams, improving processes, and making a real impact in a high-tech manufacturing environment, this is the perfect opportunity.

Key Responsibilities
 
Lead and manage daily operations in the production of precision-machined components across multiple product lines.
Support, coach, and motivate the team to maintain workflow and performance.
Uphold cellular manufacturing principles such as standard work, work instructions, and one-piece flow.
Take responsibility for training, delegation, and performance management.
Ensure customer requirements are consistently met by proactively addressing abnormalities and monitoring cycle time adherence.
Drive individual and team performance, including attendance, work rate, and engagement.
Set and monitor team targets around Quality, Delivery, and Cost.
Act as a Cell Technician when required to maintain operations.
Lead daily team meetings, sharing performance indicators and action plans using QDIP boards.
Maintain visual management systems, ensuring documentation and performance boards are always up to date.
Promote continuous improvement (CI) through problem-solving, Kaizen, 5S, and engineering changes.
Serve as the first point of contact for team issues and coordinate cross-training to build capability.
Ensure accurate and timely AX transactions (back-flushing, scrap, rework, job-completion).
Support the Production Manager with correct staffing, routing times, and standard work splits.
Manage smooth daily start-ups, machine set-ups, staff allocation, and material replenishment.
Enforce company policies and procedures in line with production requirements.
Encourage and maintain a 5S environment with adherence to Cleaning and TPM schedules.  
Essential Skills & Experience
 
Strong knowledge of manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly/test processes (ideally in a high-tech industry).
Experience in machining and managing a machine shop/department.
Proven leadership and coaching skills.  
Desirable Skills & Experience
 
Experience in a low-batch, high-tolerance workshop environment.
Understanding of modern manufacturing practices such as lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.
Strong CI and problem-solving abilities.
Previous team leadership experience.  
Qualifications (Desirable)
 
HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering
Apprenticeship background
ILM Level 3 or above in Leadership  
Personal Qualities
 
Hands-on leadership style with excellent communication skills.
Strong motivational and coaching ability.
Able to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
Highly organised with strong planning skills.
Natural problem solver, self-motivated, and proactive.
Confident with numbers and IT systems.
Committed to personal and business success.  
Why Join?
This is your chance to step into a leadership role where your skills will directly shape production excellence, team growth, and business success. Our client offers a forward-thinking, supportive environment where continuous improvement and innovation are at the heart of everything they do