Established in 2009 in Sleaford, Lincolnshire, SHD Composite Materials Ltd is committed to providing exceptional levels of service and flexibility, supported by extensive experience within the composites industry. The company is at the leading edge of advanced composites technology and manufactures a wide range of thermoset prepregs, including carbon, glass, aramid, natural and hybrid fabrics, while also offering a toll impregnation service.
The Production Supervisor is responsible for overseeing day-to-day production activities, ensuring production targets are achieved safely, efficiently and to the required quality standards. The role includes supervising the production team, supporting training and development, maintaining compliance with AS9100 requirements, and driving continuous improvement across the production area.
Key Responsibilities
Production Planning & Delivery
Oversee production activities and team performance to ensure the production plan and quality requirements are met.
Plan, organise and prioritise the weekly production schedule, taking account of special job requirements, absences and resource availability.
Ensure sufficient raw materials are available from stores to maintain continuity of production.
Monitor performance, minimise downtime and support efficient use of machines, materials and labour.
Quality & Compliance
Ensure all production activities are carried out in accordance with company quality procedures, AS9100 requirements and production tolerances.
Maintain full traceability of materials, processes and production activities.
Ensure a high-quality product is consistently produced and escape any non-conforming or potentially non-conforming material to the Production Manager and Quality Department.
Ensure Material Change Requests are used when changing or introducing new procedures, and that agreed changes are implemented in a timely and supportive way.
Provide accurate KPI information to the Production Manager, including downtime, scrap, machine efficiency and other relevant measures.
Health, Safety and Housekeeping
Always adhere to company health and safety procedures, including external compliance requirements such as COSHH.
Ensure PPE is worn by all personnel on the shop floor and that team members are aware of potential risks.
Provide accurate reports to the Production Manager and Health and Safety Manager for any accidents or near misses within the team.
Ensure any new procedures following an accident, near miss or safety concern are effectively communicated and implemented.
Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and tidiness across the production area and wider site.
Ensure maintenance requests are raised and followed up in a timely manner.
Lead, motivate and support team members to achieve production, quality and safety objectives.
Create a positive team environment and support opportunities to develop team members by identifying training needs and talent.
Ensure team members have clear goals and receive adequate supervision when training in new areas until tasks can be carried out safely and competently.
Develop close working relationships with the Production Team to support ownership of the shop floor.
Manage initial people matters, including return-to-work interviews, lateness, attendance, mentoring underperforming staff, conflict resolution, Team Leader appraisals and holiday approvals.
Escalate formal disciplinary, performance or absence matters to the Production Manager and HR as required.
Communicate effectively with Team Leaders and the Production Team to ensure production is progressing to plan and agreed inspection and delivery dates remain achievable.
Identify, recommend and communicate process improvements to the Production Manager and other relevant teams.
Work collaboratively with all areas of the business to support better ways of working.
Undertake any other reasonable duties as requested.
Key Influences
The Production Supervisor will work closely with the following teams and roles:
Health and Safety
Process Development and Training Manager
Production Planner
Goods Inwards/Despatch
Quality Manager
Skills and Experience
Previous supervisory or team leader experience within a manufacturing, production or technical environment.
Good understanding of English and mathematics.
Basic computer skills and the ability to work accurately with production information and reports.
Strong attention to detail and a quality-focused approach.
Good decision-making, problem-solving and prioritisation skills.
Clear and effective communication skills.
Ability to lead, motivate, train and develop team members.
Understanding of health and safety requirements, including COSHH and PPE controls.
Knowledge of quality systems such as AS9100, or a willingness to develop this knowledge.
Ability to support continuous improvement and encourage improvement activity across the team.
Personal Attributes
Professional, reliable and committed to SHD Composite Materials Ltd.
Friendly, flexible and supportive team player with a positive can-do attitude.
Confident, approachable and able to build effective working relationships across the business.
Proactive in identifying issues, suggesting improvements and supporting change.
Our employees are very important to us, and job satisfaction is of paramount importance.
SHD Composites is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. SHD Composites is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment.
The closing date is 16th October, 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient suitable applications are received.
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Supervisor
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Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
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Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to SHD Composites Group specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
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How to prepare for a job interview at SHD Composites Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with SHD Composites Group, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
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Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like SHD Composites Group value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
