Production Line Lead
Mission Statement
The Production Line Lead is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of an assigned production line, ensuring production goals are met while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency. This role provides hands-on leadership to production team members, monitors line performance, ensures accurate production documentation, and serves as the first point of contact for operational issues throughout the shift.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and support a team of production associates to safely meet daily production schedules and output goals.
- Monitor line performance throughout the shift, identifying bottlenecks and implementing solutions to improve efficiency.
- Ensure production lines are properly staffed, and employees are working safely and effectively.
- Verify materials, bottles, caps, labels, and packaging components are available before production begins and communicate shortages proactively.
- Maintain accurate production documentation including Production Fill Records (PFRs), downtime logs, cleaning logs, equipment logbooks, and production reports.
- Monitor product quality throughout production by identifying and correcting issues such as:
- Loose caps
- Crooked or incorrect labels
- Improper lot codes
- Underfilled products
- Packaging defects
- Partner closely with Quality Assurance, Engineering, Material Handlers, and Production Supervisors to resolve production and quality concerns.
- Assist with production line changeovers and help ensure efficient equipment setup between production runs.
- Escalate equipment malfunctions, production delays, or material issues immediately to minimize downtime.
- Conduct routine housekeeping inspections and ensure production areas remain clean, organized, and audit ready.
- Update production communication boards and report end-of-shift production numbers and line performance to leadership.
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Qualifications
- Previous leadership or team coordination experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Strong understanding of production processes and manufacturing operations.
- Excellent communication and leadership skills.
- Ability to motivate, coach, and hold team members accountable.
- Strong organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment.
- Basic troubleshooting and mechanical aptitude.
- Proficient in basic mathematics and production documentation.
- Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
Experience
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Minimum of 1 year of manufacturing or production experience required.
- Previous Line Lead experience preferred.
- Experience in personal care, cosmetics, food manufacturing, or other fill/finish production environments is a plus.
- Familiarity with cGMP standards and production documentation is preferred.
A Little About Us
Merit Manufacturing is a rapidly growing contract manufacturer specializing in personal care products.
We manufacture products like shampoos, body wash, lotions, beard oils, hair care products, laundry detergents, and more for nationally recognized brands that millions of consumers use every day.
Since opening our doors, we've experienced incredible growth and continue investing in cutting-edge equipment, technology, and our people. Our new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility was designed with efficiency, innovation, and employee experience in mind.
At Merit Manufacturing, we believe our employees are the reason for our success. We foster a culture where every team member has a voice, opportunities to grow, and the ability to make a meaningful impact every day.
Why You'll Want This Job
- Lead your own production line and directly impact company success.
- Opportunities for advancement into Production Supervisor and other leadership roles.
- Work in a modern, climate-controlled manufacturing facility.
- Join a growing company that invests in employee development.
- Competitive pay based on experience.
- Performance and year-end bonus opportunities.
- Be part of a collaborative team focused on quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
- Every day presents new opportunities to solve problems, improve processes, and develop leadership skills.
The Basics
Location: Warren, MI
Schedule:
- First Shift: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Second Shift: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Employment Type: Full-Time
Pay: Negotiated based on experience
Benefits
- Healthcare
- Dental Insurance
- Flexible Time Off Policy
- Performance Bonus Opportunities
- Year-End Bonus Opportunity
- Company Events
- Career Development & Advancement Opportunities
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Frequently bend, twist, reach, and perform repetitive movements.
- Lift up to 30 pounds.
- Work in a loud manufacturing environment.
- Wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Work safely around manufacturing equipment and production materials.
Equality
Merit Manufacturing is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
At Merit Manufacturing, we believe our differences make us stronger, and we're committed to building a workplace where every employee feels valued, respected, and empowered to grow.
