Front Line Supervisor, Welding

Job Description

The Front Line Supervisor, Welding is a leadership role responsible for supporting the Welding operations. Operating under the BIW Business Operating System (BOS), this position ensures safe, high-quality, and efficient execution of trade work to support ship/unit construction schedules. This role provides technical and resource management for Welding activities and plays a key role in coaching and mentoring mechanics to strengthen trade performance and team effectiveness. Key Responsibilities Safety Leadership:

• Champion BIW safety culture and enforce all safety standards and procedures across operations.
• Ensure proper PPE use, hazard awareness, and adherence to safe work practices.
• Support safety training and continuous improvement in workplace safety performance.

Project Execution:

• Lead execution of Welding construction activities to support ship/unit schedules.
• Monitor the quality of work performed; ensure first-time quality through proper oversight and training.
• Support Plan of the Week (POW) execution and coordinate with area management to align resources with operational needs.

Operational Management:

• Participate in efforts to improve efficiency and optimization.
• Provide technical guidance and support to mechanics.
• Ensure accountability of task and goal completion.
• Understand, support, and administer the union labor contract.
• Use electronic time accounting system (WFM) to maintain employees’ time, overtime, and work order charges daily.

Mentoring & Team Development:

• Mentor mechanics by developing their technical knowledge and ability to execute daily objectives.
• Ensure procedures and process controls are well-documented and communicated to the personnel charged with executing the tasks.
• Promote continuous learning and skills development for mechanics.

Continuous Improvement:

• Participate in Business Operating System (BOS) principles and productivity enhancements.
• Focus on the quality of trade’s workmanship to ensure quality standards.
• Incorporate the Plan-Do-Check-Act model to ensure sustainment of the improvements established.

Required/Preferred Education/Training

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Welding back-up/Work-Leader/ Supervisory experience and V.T. certified or in training preferred.
• Grade 12 or higher certification preferred.

Required/Preferred Experience

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills required.
• Work history of positive working relationships with peers.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively manage conflict and changing priorities.
• Previous supervisory experience in a production environment preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in shipbuilding manufacturing processes preferred.