Senior Leading Hand - Mechanical in Bradford-on-Avon

AB Dynamics is one of the world’s leading specialists in automotive test systems, supplying a range of advanced solutions including driving robots, ADAS soft crash targets and driving simulators to all major vehicle manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers globally. The company's unique technology is used for many applications including the development of autonomous vehicles.

Role Overview

The function of the role is to take on the responsibility to support the team leader in the smooth running of the department and ensuring that all the work gets completed on time and to a high standard. You will be deputising for the team leader in their absence and attending all the relevant meetings that the team leader would normally attend. This is a role which incorporates “hands-on” expertise, and to lead by example during the normal times that the team leader is present. You will still be accountable for your normal operational output, but with the added responsibility of supporting the team leader and leading by example in everything day to day.

Core Responsibilities

• Provide full cover supporting the department whilst the team leader is out of the business.
• Become the “Point of contact” for others in the business while the team leader is busy or away.
• Work on flexibility of skill sets to cover holidays, absenteeism and other staff shortages.
• Communicate with other department team leaders and managers to keep updated on progress and/or any problems that will need to be escalated.
• Hands-on approach to departmental targets and deadlines, supporting the team to achieve this.
• Allocation of shop orders to the team when the TL is away, always ensuring the team are busy and working to the correct priorities.
• Have a proactive approach to solving problems and overcoming downtime.
• Attend all required meetings when the TL is away, ensuring you come prepared with all the data required.
• Support company quality process (NCR, CAPA, 8D, ERP).
• Assist in all IFS department issues and have a positive approach to ensuring shop orders are closed efficiently.
• Play an active part in keeping the department clean and tidy and ensuring that everyone is held accountable for their workstations and surrounding areas.
• Lead by example and uphold a “safety first” culture within the department.
• Work within a lean environment and adopt lean principles.

What are we looking for?

• Proven experience with a manufacturing and/or assembly background.
• Mechanical assembly experience/engineering background.
• Ability to perform quality inspection skills.
• Working to procedures, processes and guidelines.
• Microsoft 365.
• Desirable: Toolmaker background.
• Problem solving and corrective action skills.
• Strong leader with proven leadership skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and deliver targets.
• Problem solving techniques.
• Able to work independently with minimum supervision.
• Commitment to a high level of personal performance.
• Self-motivated and demonstrates the right attitudes and behaviours.
• Excellent communication skills with a 'can do, will do' attitude.
• Strong team player.
• Flexible approach.

Why join us?

We are part of the AB Dynamics Group, an innovative, dynamic listed business with a friendly and supportive working environment. In addition to competitive salaries, our attractive benefits package includes:

• Discretionary bonus scheme.
• 25 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, which increases every 2 complete years up to a max of 32 days.
• Up to 10% matched pension contributions, with option to salary exchange.
• Private Medical Insurance – Family cover (Company funded benefit in kind).
• Life Assurance 6x salary.
• Option to join Critical Illness Insurance, Dental Insurance and Health screening.
• Income protection (Company funded).
• Enhanced parental leave.
• EAP including mental, physical and financial wellbeing.