Location: Ely (CB6) Duration: Permanent Hours: Monday - Thursday: 7:30am - 4:30pm, Friday: 7:30am - 12:30pm Salary: Competitive Job Reference: 35802 Polytec are seeking a Lead Manufacturing Operator to support our client's growing team in Ely. If you are hands-on, motivated and passionate about quality and continuous improvement, we want to hear from you. As a Lead Manufacturing Operator, you'll work closely with the Supervisor to guide your team, ensuring safety, quality and on-time delivery. This is a hands-on, physical role where you'll lead by example, help train team members and contribute to a positive, efficient work environment. Responsibilities: * Ensure team adherence to safety protocols, PPE usage and best working practices * Motivate, guide and train operators to meet production and quality targets * Lead a team to deliver manufacturing goals, prioritising quality and delivery performance * Drive cross-training and upskilling to build flexibility and resilience within the team * Maintain accurate documentation (risk assessments, SSOWs, competence records) * Allocate resources effectively and manage daily task distribution * Collaborate across departments to ensure smooth workflow and timely order fulfilment * Champion LEAN principles such as 5S and Takt time Requirements: * Apprenticeship trained or equivalent hands-on experience * Minimum 3 years in a manufacturing environment * Good understanding of LEAN manufacturing and quality improvement tools * Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues * Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving mindset * Confident communicator and capable team leader * Experience coaching, mentoring and sharing knowledge with others * Positive, can-do attitude and respectful work ethic Please contact us as soon as possible for more details or apply below