Forging Lead

Forging Lead

Department: Manufacturing / Forging
Reports To: Operations Supervisor
Location: DRiV, Maryville, MO

Position Summary

The Forging Lead is responsible for leading and supporting daily operations within the forging department to ensure safety, quality, productivity, and teamwork objectives are achieved. This role serves as a working lead, actively performing forging operations while providing leadership, guidance, and support to team members. The Forging Lead assists with plant coverage as needed and helps drive continuous improvement throughout the operation.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

- Lead and support employees within the forging department to ensure safe and efficient operations.

- Perform forging operations involving steel components, including setup, operation, and monitoring of forging equipment.

- Grind, inspect, and prepare forged products to meet quality standards and customer specifications.

- Assist with training and onboarding new employees on department processes, safety procedures, and quality expectations.

- Monitor production schedules and communicate priorities to team members.

- Provide daily direction, coaching, and support to employees while fostering a positive and accountable work environment.

- Assist with personnel coverage across departments and shifts as operational needs require.

- Identify and report safety concerns, quality issues, equipment problems, and production delays.

- Ensure compliance with company policies, safety procedures, and manufacturing standards.

- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

- Maintain accurate production and quality documentation.

- Work collaboratively with supervisors, maintenance, quality, and other departments to achieve plant objectives.

Qualifications

- High school diploma or GED required.

- Previous manufacturing experience required; forging experience preferred.

- Prior leadership, lead, or supervisory experience preferred.

- Ability to read work instructions, production documents, and quality specifications.

- Basic problem-solving and communication skills.

- Ability to motivate and lead a team while maintaining a hands-on presence on the production floor.

Physical Requirements

- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

- Frequent lifting, pushing, pulling, and handling of materials.

- Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, and industrial equipment.

- Ability to safely wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Leadership Expectations

- Lead by example in safety, attendance, quality, and teamwork.

- Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and respect in all interactions.

- Support employee engagement and development.

- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

- Serve as a trusted resource and point of contact for team members during daily operations.

DRiV is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing a safe, productive, and respectful workplace for all employees.