Production Supervisor - Woodworking Machinery Location - Denton, Manchester, M34 3SG Employment Type – Permanent, Full Time, 40 Hours a Week, 8:00-4:30 Position Summary We are seeking a proactive and technically skilled Hands-On Production Supervisor to lead a small team within our manufacturing facility. This role blends leadership with daily involvement in operations, including direct use of CNC routers, edge banders, and woodworking equipment. The successful candidate will drive performance against key production KPIs, oversee workflow and material efficiency, and foster a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement through structured problem solving and hands-on support. Key Responsibilities Lead, supervise and support a small team of production operatives to ensure all output targets and KPIs are consistently met or exceeded. Operate CNC routers, edge banders, table saws, and other woodworking equipment as part of daily responsibilities. Lead daily production planning and workflow management to optimise labour and equipment utilization. Monitor, track, and report on departmental KPIs including: Output volumes and job completion rates First-time-right quality metrics Machine uptime and efficiency Material yield and waste reduction Conduct root cause analysis on quality issues, downtime, or missed targets, ensuring corrective actions are implemented and lessons shared. Drive a culture of continuous improvement using lean manufacturing techniques (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, SMED). Train, coach, and upskill team members in machine operation, safety compliance, and process efficiency. Ensure all operations are conducted in compliance with health and safety regulations and company standards. Coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams for proactive servicing and minimisation of unplanned downtime. Support accurate material usage reporting and inventory checks, ensuring material efficiency and minimal scrap. Maintain a clean, organised, and audit-ready working environment. Communicate effectively with management and other departments regarding production needs, challenges, and timelines. Required Skills & Experience 3 years hands-on experience operating CNC woodworking equipment, including routers, edge banders, and saws. Proven leadership or supervisory experience in a manufacturing or production setting. Strong ability to interpret blueprints, technical specifications, and CAD drawings. Skilled in performing machine setups, tool changes, and basic maintenance. Proficient in identifying and solving production challenges using structured problem-solving techniques. Comfortable working under pressure while maintaining a high standard of quality and safety. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a strong sense of accountability. Demonstrable experience in improving workflow, reducing waste, or driving measurable process improvements. Desirable (Not Essential) Experience with CNC programming software (e.g., Fusion 360, AutoCAD, Alphacam). Familiarity with ERP or production tracking systems. Forklift certification or experience using material handling equipment. Physical Requirements Ability to stand, bend, and work on your feet for 8 hour shifts. Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and working in a typical manufacturing environment. What We Offer Competitive salary, commensurate with experience. Company benefits including health, dental, and vision plans. Opportunities for progression within a growing and supportive business. Fresh Fruit provided to support healthy eating Communal staff break area Staff discount available on business products Social events Wellness plan 24 days annual leave plus standard bank holidays Extra day annual leave from your 5th and 10th year Staff saving scheme Long service bonuses Relaxed dress code Subsided gym membership Cycle to work scheme Reduced cost Costco membership Death-in-service benefit Flu-jab (once per year)