Technical Production Manager

Chainlink Recruitment; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A national and international manufacturer is seeking a Technical Production Manager in Cape Town to oversee manufacturing operations focused on CNC machining and welding. The role requires strong leadership skills, technical expertise in production processes, and over 10 years of experience in a manufacturing environment. Responsibilities include managing production activities, optimizing efficiency, and ensuring adherence to quality standards. The ideal candidate will have a technical degree and a proven track record in production management.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing/production environment.
• Hands-on knowledge of CNC machines, welding processes (MIG/TIG), and general fabrication.
• Experience in team leadership, production scheduling, and process optimization.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the production floor.
• Plan and schedule production activities to meet output targets.
• Oversee programming and maintenance of CNC machinery.
• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks and quality concerns.
• Lead, train, and mentor production supervisors and operators.
• Collaborate with sales and project teams on custom jobs.

Skills

CNC Programming

Strong leadership and communication skills

Analytical and process-driven thinker

Detail-oriented

Education

Technical diploma or degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Production Management

Tools

CAD/CAM fluency

Production planning tools

ERP systems

Job description

National & International Manufacturer is looking for a Technical Production Manager in Airport City, Cape Town.

The Technical Production Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing all aspects of manufacturing operations with a strong focus on technical processes such as CNC machining, welding, and mechanical assembly. The role ensures that production targets are met with a high standard of efficiency, safety, and product quality.

Key Responsibilities

Production Oversight

• Manage day-to-day operations of the production floor including CNC, welding, cutting, assembly, and finishing areas.
• Plan and schedule production activities to meet output targets and delivery deadlines.
• Monitor machine performance, optimize run times, and reduce downtime.

Technical Knowledge & Process Control

• Oversee programming, setup, and maintenance of CNC machinery (lasers, routers, lathes, etc.).
• Ensure correct welding techniques, jigs, and material specs are followed.
• Troubleshoot machinery and coordinate preventive maintenance with the maintenance team.
• Work with engineering to improve tooling, fixture design, and production methods.

Production Efficiency & Quality

• Analyze production data to identify bottlenecks, scrap issues, and quality concerns.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies.
• Ensure adherence to ISO standards (if applicable) and internal quality systems.

Team Management

• Lead, train, and mentor production supervisors, operators, and technicians.
• Set performance goals and conduct regular reviews with team members.
• Enforce health and safety protocols on the factory floor.

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Work with design, procurement, and logistics to ensure material availability and workflow planning.
• Collaborate with sales and project teams on custom jobs, urgent timelines, or new product integrations.

Minimum Requirements

Education & Experience

• Technical diploma or degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Production Management.
• 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing/production environment.
• Hands‑on knowledge of CNC machines, welding processes (MIG/TIG), and general fabrication.
• Experience in team leadership, production scheduling, and process optimization.

Technical Competencies

• CNC Programming
• CAD/CAM fluency
• Knowledge of production planning tools and ERP systems
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem‑solving skills

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership and communication skills
• Detail‑oriented with a bias for action
• Able to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Analytical and process‑driven thinker

Desirable

• Lean Manufacturing
• Experience in umbrella, furniture, or metal fabrication industries
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 or other quality systems