Production Coordinator

Production Coordinator
Location: AIR Wakefield
Overview:
We are seeking a proactive and highly organised Production Coordinator to cover a period of maternity leave. This role is critical in ensuring that all metal-finished components flow efficiently through our supply chain, supporting production schedules and maintaining strong relationships with metal finishing partners.
The successful candidate will be adaptable, decisive, and comfortable juggling multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Production Coordinator
Assess all parts awaiting metal finishing, considering:
* Distance to metal finishing suppliers
* Lead times and capacity of each finishing type
* Production priorities and urgent requests
* Ensure correct job allocation to appropriate finishers to meet operational deadlines
Logistics & Scheduling
* Arrange collections and deliveries with local couriers.
* Plan and coordinate jobs with the in‑house driver, ensuring efficient routing and timely drop‑offs/collections.
* Track all outgoing and incoming metal finishing jobs to maintain visibility of progress.
Supplier & Relationship Management
* Build and maintain strong working relationships with metal finishing companies.
* Confirm accurate, up-to-date lead times
* Address delays or issues promptly, escalating internally when needed.
Communication & Coordination
Provide clear, timely updates to line managers and production teams regarding:
* Work-in-progress at metal finishers
* Expected delivery dates
* Any disruptions or urgent requirements
* Collaborate closely with manufacturing, planning, and quality teams to ensure smooth workflow
Administrative Duties
* Generate purchase orders and drawing packs for relevant suppliers
* Maintain accurate records of parts sent for finishing.
* Update internal systems with job statuses.
Key Skills & Abilities:
Essential
* Strong organisational and multitasking skills.
* Ability to react quickly to urgent requests and changing priorities.
* Good understanding of logistics coordination.
* Confident communicator, both internally and externally.
* Proven experience in a fast-paced operational or manufacturing environment.
* Ability to build rapport with suppliers and manage expectations professionally.
* Computer literate
Desirable
* Experience within a metal finishing, fabrication, or engineering environment.
* Knowledge of plating, anodising, powder coating, or similar processes.
* Familiarity with ERP or production scheduling systems.
* Full UK driving licence.
Personal Attributes
* Calm, solutions‑focused and detail orientated maintaining composure under pressure
* Reliable, punctual team player with a collaborative mindset and strong commitment to delivering quailty work
What we offer:
In AIR, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional development, including flexible work arrangements, company bonus, maternity and paternity leave, pension plan, training support, and various wellness initiatives.
About AIR:
Established in 2023, Automated Industrial Robotics Inc from Los Angeles, USA and funded by ARES Management private equity group, AIR is a trusted automation partner empowering our customers to innovate, produce and scale through technology-enabled manufacturing. Our five-hundred-person world-class team operates across 350,000 sq ft of advanced manufacturing space in four facilities spanning America and Europe. With centralized engineering, technology and support, we deliver transformative automation solutions that increase quality, production and efficiency