Manufacturing Process & Fixture Specialist
Northeast Auto Group is seeking a hands-on Manufacturing Process & Fixture Specialist to drive continuous improvement across our truck body manufacturing operations. This role focuses on identifying and implementing process enhancements, as well as designing and developing jigs and fixtures to improve efficiency, consistency, and production output. Based at our Northeast Engineering facility and reporting to the Head of Manufacturing, this is a full-time, on-site position with occasional visits to suppliers and partner workshops.
Key Responsibilities
Process Analysis and Improvement
• Lead end-to-end process mapping and value stream analysis for truck body
fabrication and assembly.
• Use Six Sigma tools and statistical methods to identify root causes of
variation and defects.
• Design and implement Kanban systems for material flow, WIP control, and
replenishment.
Jig and Fixture Design and Implementation
• Produce design briefs, CAD concepts, and engineering change requests for
jigs, fixtures, and workholding.
• Prototype, test, and iterate fixtures in collaboration with workshop and
production teams.
• Ensure fixtures deliver repeatability, ergonomic safety, quick changeover,
and maintainability.
Standardisation and Control
• Develop and maintain SOPs, work instructions, visual controls, and inspection
jigs.
• Implement poka-yoke and other mistake‑proofing measures where appropriate.
• Validate process changes through pilot runs and formal capability studies.
Data, Reporting and Continuous Improvement
• Define and track key process metrics; present data-driven business cases and
cost–benefit analyses.
• Maintain improvement logs, change records, and validation documentation.
• Coach and train production staff in lean methods, Kanban, and new
fixtures/processes.
Research and Benchmarking
• Research best practices in truck body manufacturing, modular assembly,
automated welding, and material handling.
• Translate external best practices into practical, shop-floor-ready
recommendations.
Objectives and Key Performance Indicators
Primary Objectives
• Increase repeatable quality and reduce variation across truck body
production.
• Raise production throughput while reducing rework and scrap.
• Deliver robust, maintainable jigs and fixtures that reduce cycle time and
operator dependency.
Key Performance Indicators
• Quality: Reduction in defect rate and rework percentage.
• Throughput: Increase in units produced per shift/week.
• Cycle Time: Reduction in cycle time for targeted operations.
• Process Capability: Improvement in Cp/Cpk for critical dimensions.
• Inventory: Reduction in WIP and lead time via Kanban implementation.
• Return on Investment: Measured payback period for fixture and process
investments.
Required Skills and Qualifications
Technical Qualifications
• Tertiary qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering,
or equivalent.
• Six Sigma Green Belt minimum; Black Belt preferred.
• Demonstrated experience implementing Kanban and lean manufacturing systems.
• Proficiency with CAD tools and ability to produce fixture concepts and
engineering documentation.
Experience
• Proven track record in jig/fixture design, prototyping, and shop-floor
implementation.
• Experience in truck body, commercial vehicle, or heavy fabrication
manufacturing preferred.
• Strong background in welding processes, assembly fixturing, and dimensional
control.
Behavioural Competencies
• Data-driven problem solver with strong statistical thinking.
• Effective communicator able to bridge engineering and production teams.
• Practical, hands-on approach with respect for shop-floor expertise.
• Project management skills and ability to deliver to timelines and budgets.
Deliverables Authority and Working Relationships (Job Description)
Deliverables
• Process maps, capability studies, and improvement proposals with cost–benefit
analysis.
• CAD concepts, prototype fixtures, validation reports, and updated SOPs.
• Training materials and roll-out plans for implemented changes.
Authority
• Authority to initiate pilot trials and minor engineering changes within
agreed budgets.
• Authority to recommend capital expenditure for fixtures and tooling subject
to management approval.
Key Interfaces
• Production Supervisors and Operators
• Quality Assurance and Inspection Teams
• Workshop Fabrication and Maintenance Teams
• Design Engineering and Procurement
Application Requirements
• CV with relevant project examples of jig/fixture development and process improvements.
• Brief cover letter outlining Six Sigma experience and a summary of a measurable improvement you led.
• Portfolio or examples of CAD concepts, validation reports, or before/after metrics where available.
Selection Stages
1. CV and portfolio shortlisting.
2. Technical interview including case study on process improvement and fixture design.
3. Practical assessment or site visit to review candidate approach to a real shop-floor problem.
4. Final interview with senior management.
Success Criteria for Appointment
• Demonstrated technical competence and measurable past results.
• Clear methodology for taking a process from identification through to validated implementation.
• Cultural fit with collaborative, continuous improvement mindset.
