Lead Production Assembler

Lead Production Assembler

Job Type: Full Time – Hourly

Location: Novi, MI

Reports to: Manufacturing Engineer

Job Summary:

The Lead Production Assembler will guide a team of three (3) to seven (7) assemblers building digital security seals and devices.  This is a working lead role: the Lead builds product alongside the team while coordinating daily work, assisting with assignments, training new assemblers, and serving as the first point of contact on the floor.  The Lead helps keep the line running to quality and output targets and supports a dependable, high-performing team.  

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership

• Lead the daily work of a team of production assemblers and assist with work assignments.
• Train and onboard new assemblers on standardized work, ESD handling, quality, and safety.
• Serve as the first point of contact for line issues; resolve what you can and escalate to the Manufacturing Engineer when needed.
• Monitor team output and first-pass quality against daily targets and help keep the line on pace.
• Verify team adherence to standardized work, quality, traceability, and safety procedures.
• Assist the Manufacturing Engineer with production reporting, data collection, and continuous improvement.

Assembly

• Assemble digital security seals and devices to standardized work instructions, ensuring quality on every unit.
• Handle PCBAs and ESD-sensitive components following proper electrostatic discharge procedures.
• Perform in-process inspection and functional checks at the in-line inspection station; identify, flag, and set aside any nonconforming units.
• Interact with tablets and computers linked to our ERP system to sign into jobs, report scrap, and ensure critical product traceability.
• Meet daily production output and first-pass quality targets.
• Package, label, and prepare finished products for transfer or shipment.
• Keep a clean, organized workstation and follow all safety and PPE requirements.
• Stop work and report product, fixture, or equipment issues to the Manufacturing Engineer.
• Contribute floor-level observations and continuous improvement ideas.
• Cross-train across multiple products and stations as the line grows.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• 2+ years of assembly or manufacturing production experience.
• Experience training, guiding, or coordinating the work of others, whether formal or informal.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and a commitment to building every unit right the first time.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow written and visual work instructions in English.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for precise small-part assembly.
• Basic computer and tablet literacy, with the ability to use ERP-linked devices.

• Ability to perform repetitive assembly tasks accurately and consistently across a full shift.
• Willingness and ability to follow ESD procedures when handling electronic components (training provided).

Preferred Qualifications

• Formal team-lead or production coordination experience.
• Experience in an ISO 9001 or other quality-managed manufacturing environment.
• Familiarity with lean, 5S, or continuous-improvement practices.
• Experience handling PCBAs or ESD-sensitive electronic components.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Requires fine motor work and repetitive hand and wrist motion for extended periods.
• Requires close-vision acuity for small-part assembly and inspection.
• ESD controls and designated PPE required at all workstations.
• Standing assembly at height-adjustable workstations with anti-fatigue standing padding.
• Occasional lifting of up to 40 lbs. may be required.