In this article, we’ll look at the best practices for onboarding your new Tool Smith. We’ll look at the employee onboarding process/steps you can add to your own reusable Tool Smith checklist.
Need help with onboarding new Manufacturing team members? See the templates and resources we recommend for successful onboarding experiences.
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Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Tool Smith starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Manufacturing onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Tool Smith, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Tool Smith onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.
1. Introduction to the company: The new Tool Smith should be provided with a comprehensive introduction to the company, including its history, mission, values, and organizational structure. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated company representative.
2. Familiarization with safety protocols: Safety is of utmost importance in the manufacturing industry. The new Tool Smith should receive a thorough briefing on the company’s safety protocols, including emergency procedures, proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and any specific safety measures related to the tools and equipment they will be working with. This task is usually conducted by the safety department or a safety officer.
3. Orientation to the manufacturing facility: The Tool Smith should be given a tour of the manufacturing facility, including the different departments, workstations, and storage areas. This will help them become familiar with the layout of the facility and understand how different areas interact with each other. The tour is typically conducted by a supervisor or a designated employee from the operations team.
4. Introduction to the tool inventory: The new Tool Smith should be introduced to the company’s tool inventory system, including how tools are tracked, stored, and maintained. They should also be provided with a list of commonly used tools and their specifications. This task is usually performed by the tool crib manager or a senior Tool Smith.
5. Training on tool maintenance and repair: As a Tool Smith, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of tool maintenance and repair. The new hire should receive comprehensive training on how to inspect, clean, calibrate, and repair various tools and equipment. This training is typically conducted by a senior Tool Smith or a designated trainer.
6. Introduction to tool design and fabrication processes: Depending on the company’s operations, the Tool Smith may be involved in tool design and fabrication. In such cases, they should receive training on the company’s tool design software, fabrication techniques, and quality control processes. This training is usually provided by the engineering or design team.
7. Collaboration with other departments: The Tool Smith should be introduced to key personnel in other departments, such as engineering, production, and quality control. This will help them understand how their role interacts with other functions within the company and foster effective collaboration. The introduction can be facilitated by the supervisor or a designated employee from each department.
8. Familiarization with company policies and procedures: The new Tool Smith should be provided with a copy of the company’s policies and procedures manual, covering topics such as attendance, leave, code of conduct, and disciplinary procedures. They should also be informed about any specific policies related to tool management and maintenance. The HR department typically handles this task.
9. Training on company-specific software and systems: Many manufacturing companies utilize specialized software and systems for inventory management, work orders, and documentation. The Tool Smith should receive training on these systems to ensure they can effectively navigate and utilize them. This training is usually conducted by the IT department or a designated trainer.
10. Introduction to quality control processes: Quality control is crucial in manufacturing, and the Tool Smith should be familiarized with the company’s quality control processes, including inspections, testing, and documentation requirements. This task is typically performed by the quality control department or a designated quality control officer.
11. Mentoring and shadowing opportunities: To facilitate a smooth transition, the new Tool Smith should be paired with a mentor or experienced Tool Smith who can provide guidance, answer questions, and offer support during the initial period. Additionally, shadowing opportunities can be arranged to allow the new hire to observe and learn from experienced Tool Smiths in action. This task is typically coordinated by the supervisor or HR department.
12. Performance expectations and goal setting: The Tool Smith should have a clear understanding of their performance expectations and goals. This includes discussing key performance indicators, productivity targets, and any specific projects or initiatives they will be involved in. The supervisor or department manager is responsible for setting performance expectations and goals.
13. Ongoing training and professional development: To ensure the Tool Smith’s skills and knowledge remain up to date, the company should provide opportunities for ongoing training and professional development. This can include attending workshops, conferences, or online courses related to tooling, manufacturing processes, or industry advancements. The HR department or supervisor can coordinate and facilitate these opportunities.
14. Introduction to company culture and team-building activities: Building a positive company culture and fostering teamwork is essential for employee satisfaction and productivity. The new Tool Smith should be introduced to the company’s culture, values, and any team-building activities or events that take place. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated employee responsible for employee engagement.
15. Performance reviews and feedback sessions: Regular performance reviews and feedback sessions should be conducted to assess the Tool Smith’s progress, address any concerns, and provide constructive feedback. These sessions are typically conducted by the supervisor or department manager, with input from other relevant stakeholders.
By ensuring these onboarding tasks are completed, the new Tool Smith will have a solid foundation to start their journey with the new manufacturing company, enabling them to contribute effectively and thrive in their role
From reading through the items in the example Tool Smith checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Tool Smith up to speed and working well in your Manufacturing team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.
