Job Title:Production Manager
Location: Rayong, Thailand
Industry: Sheet Metal Fabrication / Manufacturing
Employment Type: Full-time / Expatriate or Local Hire
Reporting To: Plant Manager / General Manager
Job Summary
We are seeking a results-driven and technically proficient Production Manager to lead our sheet metal fabrication operations in Rayong. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience in the sheet metal industry, managing processes from laser cutting to assembly. This role requires a leader who can drive productivity, maintain strict quality standards, and effectively bridge the cultural gap between the Thai workforce and Chinese management.
Key Responsibilities
1. Production Operations & Management
- Oversee the entire sheet metal production process, including Laser Cutting, Punching, Bending (CNC Press Brake), Welding, Surface Treatment (Painting/Powder Coating), and Assembly.
- Develop and execute daily, weekly, and monthly production plans to meet customer delivery schedules and sales targets.
- Monitor production output, quality, and efficiency metrics; implement corrective actions to address deviations.
- Ensure optimal utilization of machinery and labor to maximize Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).
2. Quality & Process Control
- Collaborate with the Quality Assurance team to ensure products meet engineering drawings, specifications, and tolerance standards.
- Champion the First Time Right approach to minimize rework and scrap rates in the bending and welding processes.
- Troubleshoot production issues related to tooling, programming (CNC), or material defects.
3. Continuous Improvement (Lean Manufacturing)
- Lead Kaizen () initiatives to reduce setup times (SMED), optimize material flow, and eliminate waste (Muda) on the shop floor.
- Implement and maintain 5S standards and workplace safety organization.
- Drive cost-reduction projects through process optimization and waste reduction.
4. Maintenance & Technical Support
- Coordinate with the maintenance team to ensure preventive maintenance schedules are followed for lasers, press brakes, and welding equipment to minimize unplanned downtime.
- Manage the lifecycle of tooling (punches, dies) and ensure availability for production runs.
5. Team Leadership & Cross-Cultural Management
- Lead, motivate, and develop a team of Thai supervisors, team leaders, and skilled operators (welders, CNC programmers).
- Conduct performance reviews, identify training needs, and foster a culture of skill development (especially in welding and CNC operations).
- Act as the primary communication link between the shop floor and Chinese management, ensuring directives are clearly understood and implemented.
6. Safety & Compliance
- Enforce strict adherence to Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) regulations.
- Ensure safe operation of heavy machinery and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Qualifications & Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
- Experience:
- Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in manufacturing, with at least 3-5 years in a managerial role.
- Must have solid experience in the Sheet Metal Fabrication industry.
- Experience working in a Chinese manufacturing company or managing cross-cultural teams (Chinese-Thai) is highly preferred.
- Technical Skills:
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and GD&T.
- Familiarity with CNC programming (for Amada, Trumpf, or similar machines) is a plus.
