Welding Ops Lead 1

At Tenneco, we don’t follow industry standards; we set them, and we don’t settle for being best-in-class because we hustle to be better than best-in-class. Whether it’s our Core Values – radical candor, simplify, organizational velocity, tenacious execution and win – or our Get Stuff Done (GSD) mindset, we’re determined to become the most trusted partner and best manufacturer and distributor to the transportation industry.

With a product portfolio as expansive as it is innovative, an obsessive commitment to quality and excellence, and a global presence, we’re all about getting stuff done, so we can win.

How do we make it happen? Through the Tenneco Way. Fueled by our Core Values, a winning mindset and a relentless commitment to excellence, the Tenneco Way is how we win. It’s what keeps Team Tenneco bold, driven, and unapologetically focused on pushing past limits and redefining success.

Here, you’ll work alongside a team of relentless problem-solvers who are committed to making a tangible impact. If you’re ready to break boundaries, deliver results, and enjoy the ride along the way, you’ll thrive here.

Want to learn more about who we are? Check out our website to discover the Tenneco Way

Job Title: Operations Lead
Department: Production
Reports To: Production Supervisor
FLSA Status: Hourly Non-Exempt

Wage Range: $31.39 – $33.74
Prepared By: Meagan Owens
Prepared Date: 09/23/2025

Summary

The Operations Lead supports production by performing standard manufacturing tasks while serving as the first point of contact for line issues, staffing needs, training, and continuous improvement activities. This role is approximately 95% hands-on in the cell with operators/welders and 5% dedicated to leadership activities, including changeovers, troubleshooting, first-piece acceptance, training coordination, and maintaining safety and 5S standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Other duties may be assigned as needed.

1. Perform standard work tasks of machine operators and/or welders in assigned area.
2. Promote and ensure adherence to all safety policies, practices, and procedures, including Hazcom labels, MSDS, and LOTO compliance.
3. Serve as the first point of contact for safety concerns, injuries, or illnesses—ensuring appropriate reporting and follow-up actions.
4. Communicate staffing needs, job rotation schedules, and workflow concerns to the Production Supervisor.
5. Provide initial response to line problems; document issues, resolve when possible, and escalate to appropriate resources as needed.
6. Facilitate and encourage teamwork among associates to maintain a positive work environment.
7. Conduct and/or coordinate training for associates within the cell.
8. Ensure build sequence and production activities follow documented standardized work.
9. Support changeovers, troubleshooting activities, and first-piece inspection processes.
10. Maintain and monitor 5S standards within the work area, escalating concerns where necessary.
11. Actively participate in and support continuous improvement initiatives, including problem-solving events, waste reduction efforts, and efficiency improvement projects.
12. Provide daily operational updates to the Production Supervisor.

Education and Experience

• Education:
• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate’s degree preferred.
• Experience:
• Minimum 1 year of manufacturing experience required.
• 1+ year prior experience in a lead role within manufacturing or a similar production environment preferred

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing work requirements.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written).
• Demonstrated ability to lead by example and foster teamwork.
• Proficiency in using measuring and gauging devices.
• Ability to perform all cell jobs at Takt time.
• Mechanical aptitude with willingness to learn basic preventive maintenance and minor machine adjustments.
• Strong analytical problem-solving, facilitation, and decision-making abilities.
• Demonstrated professional, ethical, and dependable work performance.

MIG Welder Qualifications

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• MIG welding experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Must pass MIG welder evaluation test within 60 days of hire.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

• Welding certification (MIG) within 60 days of hire.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

Equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities