Production Team Lead

VAT GROUP; Penang; On-site; MYR 89,000 - 134,000; Full time

Job summary

VAT GROUP in Penang, Malaysia, is seeking a strategic Production Team Leader for the Vulcanisation Department. You will drive a structured production management system, supported by a process engineering team, to translate expanded resources into quality and efficiency.

You will lead operations, implement lean processes, and plan capacity while maintaining product quality and safety across the site. Strong English and change-management skills are essential for global collaboration.

Qualifications

• Minimum a B.Sc. in Engineering (Polymer, Rubber/Plastics, or similar).
• 5-8 years in rubber or plastics industry (O-Ring or seal manufacturing).
• Strong background in elastomer moulding (polymer processing) and Lean Production knowledge.
• Experience in change management with strong organizational/time management skills.
• High proficiency in English for cross-border collaboration.
• Familiarity with mould making for plastics is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and supervise day-to-day operations to meet delivery targets.
• Define and consolidate the process landscape, integrating Lean Management to optimize workflows.
• Perform long-term machine capacity planning and manpower forecasting.
• Maintain high standards of quality and cleanliness per VAT and customer specs.
• Recruit, coach, and train the production team for high performance and adherence to inspections.
• Recommend improvements to work instructions, equipment, and processes to maximize yield.

Skills

Leadership

Lean Management

Communication

Change management

Team development

Capacity planning

English proficiency

Education

B.Sc. in Engineering (Polymer, Rubber/Plastics)

Tools

Mould making for plastics

Job description

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Production Team Leader for our Vulcanisation Department.

You will be the key driver in establishing a structured production management system for a newly expanded scale. Supported by a dedicated process engineering team, you will ensure that our increased resources translate into quality and efficiency.

Your responsibilities include, but not limited to:

• Operational Leadership: Plan, coordinate, and supervise day-to-day operations to ensure production orders are delivered on time, in full, and within cost targets.
• System Implementation: Define and consolidate the process landscape, integrating Lean Management to optimize workflows and layout planning for the expanded site.
• Resource & Capacity Planning: Perform long-term machine capacity planning and manpower forecasting to ensure resources are utilized effectively as we scale.
• Quality & Cleanliness: Maintain high standards of quality and cleanliness, ensuring all products meet VAT and customer specifications in a sustainable manner.
• Team Development: Responsible for the recruitment, coaching, and technical training of the production team to ensure high performance and strict adherence to documented inspections.
• Continuous Improvement: Recommend and initiate improvements in work instructions, equipment, and processes to maximize yield and minimize wastage

You must possess the below minimum qualifications to be initially considered for this position. Preferred qualifications are in addition to the minimum requirements and are considered a plus factor in identifying top candidates.

• Education: Minimum a B.Sc. in Engineering (Polymer, Rubber/Plastics, or similar).
• Experience: 5 - 8 years of working experience in the rubber or plastics industry, such as O-Ring or specialized seal manufacturing.
• Technical Skills: Strong background in elastomer moulding (polymer processing) and practical knowledge of Lean Production.
• Leadership Qualities: Experience in change management with strong organizational and time management skills to handle tight deadlines.
• Communication: High proficiency in English for effective cooperation with global product management and local production teams.
• Tooling Knowledge: Familiarity with mould making for the plastics industry is considered a significant advantage.