Mill Line Lead Operator - Deeside, UK

Salamander Solutions Inc.; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Salamander Solutions Ltd in Deeside, North Wales, UK is seeking a skilled Mill Line Lead Operator to oversee a laser-welded tube forming line and roll reduction operations. This hands-on role requires strong metal-forming knowledge, PLC-controlled equipment, and the ability to troubleshoot independently.

You will set up, start up, and run the line, maintain product specs, perform line changeovers, and minimize scrap while ensuring continuous, efficient production with minimal downtime.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience operating metal tube forming or similar continuous metal processing lines.
• Experience with PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment and HMIs.
• Troubleshooting ability on production line equipment (electrical, mechanical, process).
• Strong mechanical aptitude with tooling, roll passes and forming mechanics.

Responsibilities

• Set up, start up, and operate laser welded tube forming line and in-series roll production run.
• Operate equipment to maintain product specifications and minimize scrap.
• Conduct routine line changeovers, tooling changes, and roll pass adjustments.
• Ensure continuous and efficient production with minimal unplanned downtime.

Skills

5+ years exp

PLC/HMI

Mechanical aptitude

Lean Six Sigma

Communication

Independent work

Teamwork

Tools

PLC

HMI

Diagnostic tools

Job description

Mill Line Lead Operator - Deeside

Salamander Solutions Ltd is a global manufacturer of heater cable systems for the oil industry and is seeking a skilled and experienced Mill Line Lead Operator to join our Deeside team in North Wales, UK. The successful candidate will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and quality-focused operation of a laser-welded tube forming line and associated roll reduction lines used in the manufacture of mineral-insulated (MI) cable. This is a hands‑on, skilled production role that requires a strong understanding of metal tube-forming processes, PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment, and the ability to independently troubleshoot and resolve equipment issues.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Set up, start up, and operate laser welded tube forming line and in-series roll production run.
• Operate equipment to maintain product specifications and minimize scrap.
• Conduct routine line changeovers, tooling changes, and roll pass adjustments as required for different product sizes and specifications.
• Ensure continuous and efficient production with minimal unplanned downtime.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of experience operating metal tube forming or similar continuous metal processing lines in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated experience with PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment; ability to navigate HMI interfaces and respond to automated alarms and faults.
• Proven troubleshooting ability on production line equipment — electrical, mechanical, and process-related faults.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with understanding of tooling, roll passes, and forming mechanics.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience operating ERW or laser-welded tube forming lines and familiarity with roll reduction, drawing, or similar metal-processing operations.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes related to mineral-insulated cable, specialty wire, precision metal products, or comparable industrial environments.
• Understanding of Lean manufacturing, 5S, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement principles.
• Strong process monitoring and quality control skills, with the ability to identify and respond to changes in product quality or equipment performance.
• Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities using process knowledge and diagnostic tools.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for shift handovers, maintenance coordination, and production documentation.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and maintain productivity in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong teamwork skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with maintenance, quality, and engineering teams.

Disclaimer: This job description is intended to summarize the type and level of work performed for this role and is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and/or requirements. Salamander reserves the right to change or modify this job description or the essential duties of the role as necessary.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Salamander is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The Company’s Policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, mental or physical disability, and genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. Harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories is prohibited.