Production Head

Job Description: Production Head Galvanizing & Electroplating

Location: Panagarh, West Bengal.

Department: Production & Operations.

Reports to: Plant Head / General Manager.

1. Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Production Head to lead our Galvanizing and Electroplating division. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader with deep technical expertise in both hot-dip galvanizing and various electroplating processes. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of production, ensuring the highest standards of safety, quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness are met. You will manage the entire production lifecycle, from raw material handling to final product inspection, while leading a team of supervisors, operators, and technicians.

1. Key Responsibilities

A. Production & Operations Management:

Plan, organize, and direct the daily production operations of the galvanizing and electroplating lines to meet output targets and delivery schedules.

Develop and implement production schedules, ensuring optimal utilization of manpower, machinery, and materials.

Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), production volume, cycle times, and yield.

Manage inventory of raw materials, including zinc (Zn), acids, alkalis, and plating chemicals, ensuring uninterrupted production.

Troubleshoot production and process issues in real-time, providing technical guidance to resolve bottlenecks and minimize downtime.

Collaborate with the maintenance department to schedule preventive maintenance and ensure equipment reliability.

B. Quality Assurance & Process Control:

Enforce strict adherence to quality standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO) for coating thickness, adhesion, appearance, and chemical composition.

Oversee the monitoring and control of all process parameters for pre-treatment tanks (degreasing, pickling, fluxing) and plating baths (temperature, pH, chemical concentration).

Lead root cause analysis for product defects and implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).

Drive continuous improvement initiatives (like Lean, Six Sigma) to enhance product quality, reduce waste, and optimize processes.

C. Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE):

Champion a "safety-first" culture, ensuring all operations comply with company and statutory HSE regulations.

Ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous chemicals and materials.

Oversee the proper functioning of the Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) to meet environmental compliance standards.

Conduct regular safety audits, risk assessments, and training for all personnel on the shop floor.

Ensure all team members use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at all times.

D. Team Leadership & Development:

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing production team, including supervisors, shift in-charges, and operators.

Set clear performance objectives, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance appraisals.

Identify training needs and organize skill development programs to enhance the team's technical capabilities.

Foster a collaborative and disciplined work environment on the shop floor.

E. Reporting & Administration:

Prepare and present regular production reports, performance analyses, and improvement plans to senior management.

Maintain accurate production logs, quality records, and consumption data.

Assist in budget preparation and manage departmental operational expenses effectively.

1. Qualifications & Experience

A. Required:

Education: Bachelors Degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical field.

Experience:

Minimum of 10-15 years of experience in a metal finishing or coating industry.

At least 5 years of experience in a managerial or supervisory role, directly overseeing of electroplating production lines.

Technical Skills:

Strong understanding of electroplating processes (e.g., Zinc, Nickel, Chrome, etc.), including bath chemistry, anode/cathode principles, and troubleshooting.

Proficiency in quality testing methods for coated surfaces (e.g., thickness gauges, salt spray tests, adhesion tests).

Familiarity with industrial automation and control systems.

Knowledge of HSE regulations and ETP operations in a chemical-intensive environment.

B. Preferred:

Masters Degree in a relevant engineering or scientific field.

Certification in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt.

Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).

Proven track record of setting up new production lines or significant process re-engineering.

1. Desired Competencies

Leadership: Strong ability to lead, motivate, and hold teams accountable.

Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills to diagnose complex technical issues.

Communication: Clear and effective communication skills, both written and verbal.

Decision Making: Ability to make sound, data-driven decisions under pressure.

Process Orientation: A meticulous and detail-oriented approach to process management and control.

1. Working Conditions

This position is based on the plant floor and requires regular presence in the production area.

Exposure to industrial elements such as heat, noise, dust, and chemical fumes.

Must be physically able to stand and walk for extended periods and navigate a large manufacturing facility.

Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is mandatory.