SMT Team Leader

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.