Technical Production Manager

Chainlink Sa; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 750 000 - 1 000 000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company is seeking a Technical Production Manager in Cape Town. The successful candidate will oversee the production floor, manage CNC machining, welding, and assembly, while ensuring efficiency and quality. The ideal applicant will have over 10 years of manufacturing experience, strong leadership skills, and a technical diploma or degree. This role emphasizes continuous improvement and adherence to safety protocols.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing/production environment.
• Hands-on knowledge of CNC machines and welding processes.
• Experience in team leadership and production scheduling.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the production floor.
• Plan and schedule production activities.
• Monitor machine performance and optimize run times.
• Ensure adherence to health and safety protocols.

Skills

CNC Programming

Leadership

Mechanical Aptitude

Problem-Solving Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Technical diploma or degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Production Planning Tools

ERP Systems

Job description

Overview

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.

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