Description:
National & International Patio Umbrella Manufacturer is looking for a Technical Production Manager in Airport City, Cape Town.
The Technical Production Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing all aspects of manufacturing operations with a strong focus on technical processes such as CNC machining, welding, and mechanical assembly. The role ensures that production targets are met with a high standard of efficiency, safety, and product quality.
Key Responsibilities
Production Oversight
· Manage day-to-day operations of the production floor including CNC, welding, cutting, assembly, and finishing areas.
· Plan and schedule production activities to meet output targets and delivery deadlines.
· Monitor machine performance, optimize run times, and reduce downtime.
· Technical Knowledge & Process Control
· Oversee programming, setup, and maintenance of CNC machinery (lasers, routers, lathes, etc.).
· Ensure correct welding techniques, jigs, and material specs are followed.
· Troubleshoot machinery and coordinate preventive maintenance with the maintenance team.
· Work with engineering to improve tooling, fixture design, and production methods.
Production Efficiency & Quality
· Analyise production data to identify bottlenecks, scrap issues, and quality concerns.
· Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
· Ensure adherence to ISO standards (if applicable) and internal quality systems.
Team Management
· Lead, train, and mentor production supervisors, operators, and technicians.
· Set performance goals and conduct regular reviews with team members.
· Enforce health and safety protocols on the factory floor.
Cross-Functional Coordination
· Work with design, procurement, and logistics to ensure material availability and workflow planning.
· Collaborate with sales and project teams on custom jobs, urgent timelines, or new product integrations.
Requirements:
- Technical diploma or degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Production Management.
- 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing/production environment.
- Hands-on knowledge of CNC machines, welding processes (MIG/TIG), and general fabrication.
- Experience in team leadership, production scheduling, and process optimization.
- CNC Programming
- CAD/CAM fluency
- Knowledge of production planning tools and ERP systems
- Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Detail-oriented with a bias for action
- Able to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- Analytical and process-driven thinker
- Lean Manufacturing
- Experience in umbrella, furniture, or metal fabrication industries
- Familiarity with ISO 9001 or other quality systems
Minimum Requirements
Education & Experience
- Technical diploma or degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Production Management.
- 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing/production environment.
- Hands-on knowledge of CNC machines, welding processes (MIG/TIG), and general fabrication.
- Experience in team leadership, production scheduling, and process optimization.
Technical Competencies
- CNC Programming
- CAD/CAM fluency
- Knowledge of production planning tools and ERP systems
- Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
Soft Skills
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Detail-oriented with a bias for action
- Able to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- Analytical and process-driven thinker
Desirable
- Lean Manufacturing
- Experience in umbrella, furniture, or metal fabrication industries
- Familiarity with ISO 9001 or other quality systems