SMT Team Leader - £30,000 - Bedford

Position Overview:
Responsible for leading and motivating a day-shift production team, primarily within the Surface Mount Technology (SMT) area. This role also contributes to through-hole assembly processes. The focus is on maintaining efficient operations, adhering to set procedures, and consistently delivering high-quality results.

Main Duties:

* Supervise and motivate the SMT team to achieve productivity, efficiency, and quality objectives.

* Oversee the production of accurate assemblies through SMT workflows and selective soldering.

* Ensure all products meet the necessary standards, particularly IPC 610, at the designated class.

* Create and maintain documentation related to process control and routine equipment maintenance.

* Track output and align team efforts with production targets using scheduling tools.

* Keep accurate records in line with the Quality Management System (QMS).

* Adhere strictly to production processes and procedural guidelines.

* Foster high standards of workmanship and actively work to reduce inefficiencies and waste.

* Lead improvement efforts using lean methodologies and tools.

* Support staff development through regular performance reviews and tailored growth plans.

Candidate Profile:

* Solid grasp of SMT and through-hole production, including part identification and verification.

* Skilled in both SMT and THT manufacturing practices.

* Experience using Mydata equipment and pick-and-place machinery.

* Comfortable using software tools, especially Excel, for tracking and analysis.

* Background in a dynamic, demanding production setting—preferably high-mix, low-volume.

* Clear and confident communicator across all staff levels.

* Proactive, detail-focused, and dependable.

* Able to balance multiple tasks and adapt to shifting priorities.

* Strong organizational skills and ability to manage both team and personal workload.

* Decisive and willing to take responsibility for decisions and results.

* Familiar with lean tools like 5S and concepts such as the Theory of Constraints.

* Versatile leadership style, capable of engaging a diverse team effectively.

* Minimum of 3 years in SMT production, with 1-2 years in a supervisory or team leadership role