Assembly Lead

Douglas Dynamics; Madison Heights (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

401(k) match

Profit sharing

Douglas Dynamics University access

Job summary

Douglas Dynamics in Madison Heights, MI is seeking an Assembly Lead to oversee bench and structural assembly, boxing and bagging, and TPM records in both paced conveyor and non-paced environments.

You will train and audit shop floor teams, uphold 5S and safety, and drive continuous improvement while partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality outputs for our snowplow and ice control lines. Leadership and lean understanding are essential.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic lean concepts (DDMS).
• Ability to train others and perform root cause analysis.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to report daily production and manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee bench and structural assembly, boxing and bagging of parts and finished assemblies.
• Coordinate operations across paced conveyor and non-paced environments.
• Set up and operate machinery as needed.
• Maintain TPM records and uphold 5S standards.
• Lead and audit shop floor associates and improve quality across teams.

Skills

leadership

lean concepts

training others

root cause analysis

communication skills

Tools

TPM records

Job description

THE ROLE

We are seeking an Assembly Lead to join our team and help drive our continued success. This role plays an important part in supporting our customers, strengthening our business, and contributing to the long‑term growth of Douglas Dynamics.

HOW YOU WILL CONTRIBUTE

The Assembly Lead is responsible for overseeing and coordinating a range of operations, including bench and structural assembly, as well as the boxing and bagging of parts, components, and finished assemblies for the company’s snowplow and ice control product lines. Work may be performed in both paced conveyor and non‑paced environments. This role may also require setting up and operating machinery and equipment. The Lead actively supports team engagement and a total quality culture, performs designated maintenance functions, and maintains TPM records. Additionally, the role includes training and auditing shop floor associates, upholding 5S standards, and assuming full ownership of quality across all team functions.

In this role, you will leverage your skills, experience, and perspective to make a meaningful impact. You’ll collaborate with teammates across the organization, contribute ideas, and help deliver results that matter for our customers and our business.

HOW YOU’LL MAKE A DIFFERENCE

• Assume ownership and accountability for the quality of all team outputs
• Develop, document, train, and audit Job Instructions (JIs)
• Maintain and promote a safe work environment
• Ensure team adherence to all company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
• Monitor scrap levels and drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce waste
• Ensure team performance meets established production pace and targets
• Track, analyze, and report production metrics
• Foster a collaborative team environment; address and resolve conflicts and shop floor issues
• Perform assigned maintenance tasks and maintain accurate TPM records
• Operate various types of material handling equipment as needed
• Perform additional duties as assigned

WHAT THIS ROLE NEEDS

Knowledge of basic lean concepts (DDMS), minimum one year within the organization, prior leadership experience, ability to perform multiple assembly positions within home BU and prior background in a manufacturing setting.

Additional Skills: Ability to train others, perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actions, able to report daily production, strong communication skills both written and oral, perform basic math, ability to focus on multiple priorities and ability to work a flexible schedule as needed.

WHAT WE OFFER YOU

• A fulfilling career with the opportunity to contribute to an industry leader
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Generous 401(k) match
• Profit sharing for all full‑time employees
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities, including access to Douglas Dynamics University (DDU)

At Douglas Dynamics, we don’t just talk about improvement — we live it. We’re committed to creating an environment where people can grow, ideas are encouraged, and learning never stops. Your development matters here, and we are invested in helping you build a rewarding career.

Don’t meet every requirement? Studies show that women, people of color, and historically underrepresented talent are less likely to apply unless they meet every qualification. At Douglas Dynamics, we are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace — and we encourage you to apply.

Douglas Dynamics, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against qualified applicants based on race, color, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.