Monitor WIP (work-in-progress) and escalate bottlenecks or shortages to production planning.
Accountability & Authority
Accountability and direction of all direct and indirect work force. This includes the following activities:
Provides ongoing supervision and motivation to the production ·
Builds, motivates and retains a team that consistently meets production deadlines ·
Responsible for the health and safety of his directly reporting employees and for ensuring a harassment-free environment in the production.
Continuously evaluates production performance and focuses on continuous improvement in areas of opportunity/non-compliance · Assures good housekeeping practices (5S) through auditing
Core Competencies
Ensure proper assembly of plug valve components: body, plug/tapered or cylindrical, seats/sleeves, bushings, gland packing, thrust bearings, and actuation interfaces.
Verify correct torque values, lubrication (sealant injection for lubricated plug valves), and lapping/seating procedures per engineering specs.
Enforce use of calibrated torque wrenches, lapping compounds, and approved lubricants/sealants.
Maintain traceability of critical components (heat numbers, material certs, seat/seal batch records).
Testing & Quality Compliance
Supervise hydrostatic (shell) testing, pneumatic/hydro seat testing, and low-pressure gas seat testing per applicable standards, including:
API 598 – Valve Inspection and Testing
API 6D – Pipeline and Piping Valves (for plug valves in pipeline service)
API 599 – Metal Plug Valves
ISO 5208 – Industrial valves – Pressure testing
ASME B16.34– Valves – Flanged, Threaded, and Welding End
MSS SP-78 – Cast Iron Plug Valves (where applicable)
Customer/client-specific ITPs (Inspection & Test Plans) and datasheets
Ensure test records (pressure, duration, hold time, leak rate) are accurately logged and signed off.
Coordinate with QA/QC and third-party inspectors (TPI) for witnessed tests, hold points, and final release.
Conduct root-cause analysis on test failures (seat leakage, body leakage, stem leakage) and drive corrective actions.
Ensure NDE (Non-Destructive Examination) requirements, where applicable, are completed prior to final assembly.
Documentation
Complete and review assembly/test records, non-conformance reports (NCRs), and material traceability documentation.
Maintain calibration records for torque wrenches, pressure gauges, and test bench instrumentation.
Support preparation of data books/dossiers for customer submission.
Team & Safety Management
Supervise, train, and mentor assembly and testing technicians on procedures, standards, and safe work practices.
Enforce PPE use and safe handling of pressurized test equipment.
Conduct toolbox talks and ensure compliance with company HSE policies during hydro/pneumatic testing.
Manage attendance, performance evaluations, and skill development plans for the team.
Continuous Improvement
Identify opportunities to reduce cycle time, rework, and test failures.
Support implementation of lean manufacturing / 5S practices in the assembly and test area.
Participate in internal audits and support ISO 9001 / API Q1 quality management system compliance.
Qualifications & Experience
Diploma or bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience).
Minimum 5–8 years of experience in valve manufacturing, with at least 2–3 years in a supervisory role in assembly/testing.
Hands-on experience specifically with plug valves preferred (lubricated/non-lubricated, sleeved).
Strong working knowledge of API 598, API 6D, API 599, ISO 5208, ASME B16.34, and MSS standards.
Familiarity with reading GA drawings, cross-sectional drawings, and P&IDs.
Understanding of materials (carbon steel, stainless steel, duplex, Monel, etc.) and their relevance to sealing and testing.
Knowledge of torque specifications, gasket/seal installation, and pressure test equipment operation.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Problem-solving and root-cause analysis capability.
Good communication skills for coordinating with QA, engineering, and TPI/customers.
Proficiency with basic MS Office / SAP ERP systems for job tracking and reporting.