Shift Manager Robotics

Lead the future of fabrication at Freighter Group We seek a Robotic Welding Cell Supervisor to master our VALK systems in Wendouree.

Overview

Freighter Group, formerly known as MaxiTRANS, is a foundational and long-standing name in Australia/'s road transport sector, synonymous with locally manufactured, heavy-duty road transport trailer solutions since 1946. Operating from a major manufacturing facility in Wendouree, Victoria (Ballarat), the company supplies a wide range of market-leading brands, including Freighter, Maxi-CUBE, Hamelex White, Lusty EMS, Trout River, and AZMEB. Following a significant transformation and multi-million dollar investment in its Australian manufacturing capabilities, the group is committed to leveraging innovation and modern production techniques to deliver safer, more efficient, and reliable transport equipment for general freight, temperature-controlled, and bulk transport markets. The business prides itself on supporting its customers across the entire life cycle of their products through an extensive national parts and service network.

Responsibilities

- Robotic Operations & Process Management
- Oversee and manage the daily operation, programming, and maintenance scheduling for the bank of VALK robotic welders and associated peripherals.
- Establish and maintain efficient process flows and production schedules for the welding cell, ensuring timely completion of work orders and minimal changeover time.
- Monitor and analyse KPIs such as arc-on time, first-pass yield, cycle time, and material utilisation to identify and resolve bottlenecks.
- Collaborate with the Engineering and Maintenance teams to optimise weld programs, jigs/fixtures, and preventative maintenance schedules to maximise uptime and quality.
- Ensure all finished products meet stringent quality standards and dimensional specifications.

- Team Leadership & Development
- Lead, train, and mentor a team of robotic operators and material handlers, fostering a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
- Conduct regular performance reviews and provide constructive feedback to team members, supporting their skill development in robotics and welding technology.
- Schedule team shifts and assign tasks to ensure optimal coverage and efficient workflow across the welding cell.
- Champion safety protocols within the cell, ensuring strict adherence to all WHS regulations and safe operating procedures for robotic equipment.

- Continuous Improvement (Lean Focus)
- Apply lean manufacturing principles (such as 5S, Standard Work, and Kaizen) to eliminate waste and enhance productivity within the cell systematically.
- Identify, develop, and implement best practice methodologies for robotic welding processes, tooling, and material presentation.
- Drive a high-energy, results-oriented environment with a passion for achieving world-class manufacturing standards.

Required Qualifications & Experience

- Proven experience (3+ years) in a supervisory or leadership role within a high-volume manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrated technical proficiency and hands-on experience with industrial robotic welding systems (experience with VALK or similar brands is highly desirable).
- Solid background in metal fabrication and understanding of welding metallurgy (MIG/TIG) and quality inspection.
- Strong practical understanding and application of Lean Manufacturing methodologies and tools.
- Exceptional skills in scheduling, process flow management, and project execution.
- Excellent team management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- High level of energy, a proactive approach, and a proven passion for continuous improvement and best practice implementation.

Reporting Relationship

This position reports to the Manufacturing Manager.

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