Location: Buntingford, Hertfordshire
Job Purpose
The Metal Fabrication Supervisor is responsible for leading and coordinating daily operations across the Punch Machine and Press Brake departments. This role ensures that all fabrication activities are carried out safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards. The supervisor oversees workflow planning, resource allocation, team development, and continuous improvement initiatives. Strong technical knowledge of metal fabrication processes, combined with effective leadership and communication skills, is essential for success in this position.
Duties & Responsibilities
Health, Safety & Compliance:
- Ensure all team members follow company health and safety procedures and use PPE correctly.
- Maintain a clean, organised, and hazard‑free fabrication environment.
- Conduct safety checks, risk assessments, and ensure safe operation of machinery.
- Report and address any safety concerns or incidents promptly.
Leadership & Team Management:
- Supervise and support teams across the Punch and Folding departments.
- Allocate daily tasks, set priorities, and ensure production targets are met.
- Provide coaching, mentoring, and performance feedback to team members.
- Identify training needs and support skill development across all fabrication areas.
- Promote a positive, safe, and productive working environment.
Production Planning & Workflow Coordination:
- Plan and organise daily/weekly production schedules based on workload and deadlines.
- Coordinate workflow between departments to ensure smooth production flow.
- Ensure that the correct tooling, materials, and resources are available for each job.
- Monitor progress and adjust schedules or staffing as required.
- Liaise with other departments (e.g., design, engineering, stores, quality) to resolve issues and maintain efficiency.
Technical Oversight:
- Provide technical guidance on CNC punch press operation and press brake setup.
- Support troubleshooting of machine issues, tooling problems, or fabrication challenges.
- Ensure all work is completed in accordance with engineering drawings, specifications, and quality standards.
- Oversee first-off checks and ensure accurate setup across all fabrication equipment.
Quality Control:
- Conduct regular inspections of fabricated components to ensure dimensional accuracy and quality.
- Address defects promptly and implement corrective actions.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quality, reduce waste, and improve workflow.
- Maintain accurate production and quality records.
Maintenance & Equipment Care:
- Ensure routine maintenance is carried out on fabrication machinery, including punch presses and press brakes.
- Report mechanical issues to maintenance teams and support troubleshooting where appropriate.
- Monitor tooling condition and ensure replacements or repairs are arranged when needed.
Essential Skills and Experience
- Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of CNC punch press operation, press brake setup/programming.
- Fabrication Experience: Typically 3–5 years of experience in metal fabrication, with hands‑on knowledge of sheet‑metal processes.
- Leadership Ability: Experience supervising or leading a team in a manufacturing or fabrication environment.
- Blueprint Reading: Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and fabrication instructions.
- Quality & Measurement Skills: Competent use of measuring tools such as callipers, gauges, angle finders, and inspection tools.
- Problem‑Solving: Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot fabrication and machine issues.
- Safety Awareness: Commitment to maintaining a safe working environment and enforcing safety standards.
- Physical Requirements: Ability to handle materials, stand for extended periods, and work in a fast‑paced production environment.
- Software Knowledge: Familiarity with CNC interfaces, CAM software, or fabrication programming tools is beneficial.
- Adaptability: Willingness to learn new processes, support cross‑training, and contribute to continuous improvement.
Working Hours
This is a permanent late-shift role, working 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm, 40 hours per week. Overtime opportunities are available beyond the standard 40 hours. The late shift also includes a premium, equivalent to an additional bonus hour.
To Apply
To apply for this position, please send your CV and a cover letter to recruitment@datalecltd.com. For further information, please get in touch with HR on +44 (0) 800 6891318.
About Datalec Precision Installations (DPI)
Datalec Precision Installations provides world-class, global data centre solutions, specialising in connectivity design, bespoke manufacturing, construction, and installation services. Supported by unmatched technical expertise, we offer consultancy, technical and critical cleaning, electronic security, and managed services to address every data centre need.