1st Shift Team Leader – ESOP Employee-Owned

Challenge Manufacturing; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 42,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Challenge Manufacturing is seeking a Team Leader for the 1st shift (6:00AM–2:30PM, M-F) at the Kansas City, MO plant. You will lead day-to-day production, support operators, and help drive safety, quality, and productivity in a fast-paced automotive-grade environment.

Ideal candidates have 1–3 years in manufacturing with leadership exposure, solid problem-solving skills, and a commitment to 5S and continuous improvement. ESOP benefits and employee-ownership oriented culture.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required.
• 1–3 years of manufacturing or production experience preferred.
• Prior lead or informal leadership role is a plus.
• Basic knowledge of manufacturing processes and quality standards.
• Strong attention to detail and safety.
• Ability to follow instructions and ensure tasks are completed accurately and efficiently.
• Works well in a team environment and supports others to achieve common goals.
• Communicates effectively with team members and leadership.
• Willingness to learn and take on new responsibilities.
• Demonstrates reliability, punctuality, and good attendance.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.

Responsibilities

• Support daily production activities within assigned work zone to meet safety, quality, and delivery expectations.
• Assist Group Leaders in coordinating workflow and addressing production needs.
• Train team members on standardized work, processes, and job tasks.
• Provide guidance and support to operators with problem solving and process-related questions.
• Ensure adherence to safety protocols and promote a safe working environment.
• Monitor part quality and elevate concerns when standards are not met.
• Assist in maintaining accurate production reporting, including hourly boards and tracking systems.
• Validate and record process or inspection data as required.
• Support proper housekeeping and organization of the work area (5S standards).
• Identify abnormal conditions and communicate issues to leadership promptly.
• Participate in root cause investigations for quality or safety incidents when needed.
• Help ensure materials, tools, and equipment are available and functioning properly.
• Encourage teamwork, engagement, and positive morale among team members.
• Assist with onboarding and mentoring new employees.
• Follow company procedures for production identification, traceability, and containment of non-conforming material.

Skills

Leadership experience

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Safety awareness

Communication

Problem solving

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Basic computer skills

Job description

Challenge Manufacturing is seeking a Team Leader for the 1st shift (6:00AM–2:30PM, M-F) at the Kansas City, MO plant. You will lead day-to-day production, support operators, and help drive safety, quality, and productivity in a fast-paced automotive-grade environment.

Ideal candidates have 1–3 years in manufacturing with leadership exposure, solid problem-solving skills, and a commitment to 5S and continuous improvement. ESOP benefits and employee-ownership oriented culture.