Material Handler

Job Description Summary

The Material Handler is responsible for supporting line flow and shop floor execution by ensuring standard work-in-progress (STD WIP) levels are maintained, components are placed in the correct locations, and material movement aligns with production flow requirements throughout the line. This role plays a critical part in supporting production continuity, visual control, single piece flow, and adherence to standard work by helping ensure operators have the right material in the right place at the right time.
In addition to managing material flow, this role is expected to monitor line performance against takt time and cycle time expectations, track piece movement once takt is completed, identify and escalate abnormalities, support adherence to Standard Work and Standard Work Combination Sheets, and contribute to overall Lean implementation across the line. The Material Handler is expected to be knowledgeable of the overall line process and actively engaged with each operator’s playbook to support smooth execution, process discipline, and operational performance.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain STD WIP levels across the line to support balanced flow and uninterrupted production.
• Ensure components are placed and maintained in the correct designated locations throughout the shop floor.
• Maintain single piece flow across the line to support efficient production movement and reduce excess WIP.
• Track piece movement once takt is completed to ensure proper part flow and timely movement between workstations.
• Monitor material flow and line status to support production readiness and process continuity.
• Highlight issues when cycle time exceeds takt time and communicate abnormalities that may impact line performance.
• Support and monitor line adherence to Standard Work and Standard Work Combination Sheets across the line.
• Maintain strong awareness of the overall line process to support proper part movement and line coordination.
• Coordinate with operators and supervisors to ensure the right materials are available at the right workstation at the right time.
• Support visual management and line organization to improve process clarity and flow.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area in accordance with 5S standards.
• Demonstrate strong understanding and application of Lean principles in daily work activities.
• Identify and communicate opportunities for continuous improvement in flow, cycle time, waste reduction, and workplace organization.
• Contribute to problem solving and support corrective actions related to material flow, WIP control, and process interruptions.
• Work within takt time and standard process flow expectations to support production goals.
• Use shop floor systems and interfaces as required, such as ELM, SmartShop, and MyAndon.
• Comply with company quality policies, safety requirements, applicable procedures, and standard work.

Required Qualifications

• Diploma, technical college degree, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Knowledge in a manufacturing, material handling, production support, or industrial environment.

Desired Characteristics

• Min 3 years’ experience in Weld Repair/CNC Machining.
• Min 2 years’ in supervising individuals.
• Understanding of Lean manufacturing, 5S, visual management, and continuous improvement tools.
• Ability to identify abnormalities and escalate issues appropriately.
• Familiarity with shop floor systems such as ELM, SmartShop, and MyAndon.
• Min 2 years’ experience working with gas turbine components or other precision aerospace/industrial parts.

Additional Information

Relocation Assistance Provided: No