The Role
Lead and supervise assigned shift assembly operations for Class A automotive body panels using robotic welding and automated lines. Ensure safety, quality (Class A surface standards), production targets, troubleshooting, continuous improvement (Lean/Kaizen/5S), KPI tracking, launch support, documentation, and team development.
Summary Generated by Built In
About usLAEPPLE Automotive is a leading supplier in the automotive industry, specializing in high-quality components and systems for body components manufacturing. Our innovative technologies and efficient production processes set benchmarks in the industry. To grow our team in Detroit, we are seeking a dedicated and experienced Assembly Supervisor to lead our manufacturing team on the assigned shift. This role is responsible for overseeing daily manufacturing activities of Class A automotive body panels, using robotic welding and assembly processes (adhesion, hemming, etc.) with a strong emphasis on safety, quality standards, team performance, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience with robotic welding systems, automated assembly lines, and high-precision surface-quality requirements. Key Responsibilities:
- Supervise and coordinate operations across the facility for the assigned shift.
- Ensure production targets, quality standards, and safety requirements are consistently met or exceeded.
- Lead, coach, and develop hourly production team members.
- Monitor robotic weld cells, troubleshoot equipment and process issues, and coordinate with cross-functional teams.
- Ensure adherence to Class A surface quality standards including inspection, defect tracking, metal finish, and corrective actions.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives (Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, 5S, etc.).
- Analyze production data, downtime, and scrap to identify trends and implement corrective actions.
- Coordinate with cross-functional teams to resolve production and process issues.
- Maintain compliance with all safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
- Support launch activities, process changes, and new program introductions.
- Ensure proper documentation, reporting, and shift handoff communication.
- Other duties and tasks as assigned.
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field strongly preferred.
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience with robotic welding, assembly, and BIW operations with a minimum of three (3) years in a supervisory role within the Tier I automotive manufacturing environment.
- Hands-on experience with robotic welding systems (i.e. FANUC, KUKA).
- Familiarity with PLC troubleshooting and automated systems.
- Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred) and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint).
- Advanced working knowledge of Class A automotive body panel standards and surface quality requirements.
- Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work afternoon shift (2nd shift) and occasional overtime or weekends.
- Proficiency in production metrics, KPI tracking, and continuous improvement tools.
- Lean/Six Sigma certification would be a plus.
- Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, MIG welding equipment, and measuring systems.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Time management and ability to meet production deadlines.
- Team orientation.
- Self-motivated with a results-driven approach.
- High level of integrity and ethical standards.
- Proven reliability and exceptional attendance record.
Skills Required
- Minimum of five (5) years experience with robotic welding, assembly, and BIW operations and minimum three (3) years supervisory experience in Tier I automotive manufacturing
- Hands-on experience with robotic welding systems (FANUC, KUKA)
- Familiarity with PLC troubleshooting and automated systems
- Experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred)
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field
- Advanced working knowledge of Class A automotive body panel standards and surface quality requirements
- Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, MIG welding equipment, and measuring systems
- Ability to work afternoon (2nd) shift and occasional overtime or weekends
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications
- Strong leadership, communication, problem-solving skills and proven reliability/attendance
- Lean/Six Sigma certification or experience with continuous improvement tools (Kaizen, 5S)
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The Company
What We Do
LAEPPLE AUTOMOTIVE US, Inc. is a leading provider of sophisticated forming solutions for premium vehicle car body assembly, specializing in sheet metal part forming and assembly manufacturing.
