Overnight Ground Operations Lead – Fleet Readiness

Socket.dev; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Socket.dev is seeking a Team Lead for Ground Operations on the 3rd shift to drive overnight fleet maintenance, rework, and readiness. You will lead a team of technicians and readiness associates, shape a strong workshop culture, and partner with cross-functional teams to translate goals into actionable plans.

The role emphasizes night-time optimization of maintenance, safety, and mission readiness, with responsibilities spanning software deployment, pre-mission checks, and logistics across sites.

Qualifications

• 5+ years hands-on automotive technician experience plus 2+ years in leadership.
• Willingness and ability to lead overnight operations (3rd shift).
• Extensive knowledge of automotive maintenance methods, diagnostic methods, parts, and tools, including CAN/LIN architecture, wiring diagrams, and soldering.
• Proven ability to translate technical details for cross-functional stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage time, multitask, and drive priorities in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Clean driving record and ability to travel locally and nationally (less than 20%).

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership & Team Culture: provide leadership and mentorship to technical staff and contract personnel on the overnight shift.
• Team Development: recruit, hire, onboard, and train workshop personnel; foster accountability and safety.
• Resource Management: assist in scheduling employees and contractors, including time-off.
• Performance Tracking: monitor KPIs and provide feedback to improve performance.
• Continuous Process Improvement: streamline overnight maintenance/workflows using lean methodologies.
• Overnight Maintenance Optimization: lead vehicle maintenance and rework during low-demand periods.
• Technical Escalation: act as escalation point for complex issues, ensure quality standards.
• Data-Driven Operations: analyze fleet data for root cause analysis and downtime prevention.
• Safety Stewardship: enforce health and safety policies; maintain organized workshop.
• Mission Readiness & Logistics: software deployment, pre-mission checks, and yard logistics.
• Vehicle Operations: operate autonomous and auxiliary vehicles as needed.
• Multi-Site Support: coordinate across multiple sites within the geo.

Skills

Automotive repair

Team leadership

CAN/LIN architecture

Diagnostic methods

Education

Bachelor's degree in technical or business field

Trade school / Associate Degree in automotive repair

Tools

CAN/LIN wiring diagrams

Soldering

Automotive diagnostics tools

Job description

Socket.dev is seeking a Team Lead for Ground Operations on the 3rd shift to drive overnight fleet maintenance, rework, and readiness. You will lead a team of technicians and readiness associates, shape a strong workshop culture, and partner with cross-functional teams to translate goals into actionable plans.

The role emphasizes night-time optimization of maintenance, safety, and mission readiness, with responsibilities spanning software deployment, pre-mission checks, and logistics across sites.