Production Supervisor (Composites Lamination) - 2nd Shift

As a Production Supervisor (Composites Lamination) at SpaceX, your primary responsibilities include leading a team of approximately 20 technicians, overseeing daily operations on the shop floor, and ensuring that production schedules are met without compromising quality. You'll also collaborate with engineering teams to execute cost reduction strategies and manage workflow efficiently while addressing any nonconformance issues that arise.

To qualify for the Production Supervisor (Composites Lamination) role at SpaceX, candidates typically need a Bachelor's degree or at least 5 years of experience in a manufacturing or testing environment. Additionally, having over a year of experience in a leadership position and familiarity with composites lamination processes is essential. Preferred skills include a Lean/Six Sigma certification and experience in process improvement.

A successful Production Supervisor (Composites Lamination) at SpaceX should possess excellent communication skills, high attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Skills in team leadership, problem-solving, and a good understanding of safety practices are also crucial for effectively overseeing production and ensuring a quality output.

The work environment for a Production Supervisor (Composites Lamination) at SpaceX is dynamic and fast-paced. Supervisors are expected to oversee operations during the 2nd shift, often from 3 PM to 1:30 AM. This role requires adapting to constant work changes and managing a team effectively under pressure while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.

SpaceX offers a competitive salary for the Production Supervisor (Composites Lamination) position, alongside a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid vacation and holidays, and various employee discounts. Additionally, there are opportunities for stock options or bonuses, contributing to a rewarding long-term career.

Prioritizing tasks effectively involves assessing the urgency and importance of each task while considering team capabilities and production deadlines. Utilize scheduling tools and regular team check-ins to ensure everyone is synchronized and that priorities align with strategic production goals.

My leadership style focuses on collaboration and empowerment. I believe in providing clear goals, offering support, and encouraging my team to voice their opinions and suggestions, fostering an environment where continuous improvement thrives.

Handling team conflicts should be approached proactively. I focus on open communication to understand each party's perspective, mediate the discussion, and find a solution that meets our production goals while maintaining a positive team dynamic.

To ensure safety compliance, I implement regular safety training sessions, conduct frequent safety audits, and encourage a culture where team members feel responsible for maintaining a safe work environment. Additionally, I ensure that everyone is aware of safety protocols and procedures.

Ensuring quality in composites lamination involves implementing strict quality control measures, regular inspections, and training technicians on best practices. I also encourage feedback loops with the engineering team to immediately address any quality issues that arise.

One challenging situation involved a significant delay in production due to an unexpected supply chain issue. I coordinated closely with suppliers to expedite materials, adjusted our production schedules, and communicated transparently with my team to maintain morale and stay on track.

I have over two years of practical experience applying Lean and Six Sigma principles in production environments. This includes driving efficiency improvements, reducing waste, and implementing standardized processes that enhance overall productivity.

Training new staff involves a structured onboarding process where I pair them with experienced technicians for hands-on learning. I also provide detailed manuals and encouragement for questions to ensure they fully understand each aspect of the production process.

Monitoring team performance includes setting clear metrics for success, conducting regular check-ins, and utilizing performance data to identify areas of improvement. I also believe in providing constructive feedback to foster growth and facilitate better productivity.

To improve team communication, I establish regular team meetings where everyone can share updates and challenges. I also encourage an open-door policy for casual discussions and feedback, which helps build trust and keeps everyone aligned with production objectives.