What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assembly Lead position at DH Machine?
Assembly Lead — Attachment Assembly (Brush Cutters, Snow Pushers & Hoppers)
DH Machine Inc. | Nappanee, Indiana | Full-Time | First Shift
About DH Machine Inc.
DH Machine Inc. is a growing metal fabrication manufacturer in northern Indiana producing skid steer attachments, tractor attachments, and fabricated parts for OEM customers. Our attachment lines — including brush cutters, snow pushers, and self-dumping hoppers — are built to work as hard as the people who buy them. We run a fast-paced, team-oriented shop where quality, safety, and accountability come first.
Position Summary
We are seeking an Assembly Lead to direct the day-to-day assembly of our brush cutter, snow pusher, and hopper product lines. This is a hands-on working lead role: you will spend time on the floor building product alongside your team while also planning the day, assigning work, solving problems, and making sure every unit that leaves your area meets our quality standards and ship dates. The Assembly Lead reports to the Production Manager.
What You'll Do
Lead the Team
- Direct and coordinate a team of assemblers across three active product lines
- Assign daily work based on the production schedule, priorities, and team member skill sets
- Train new team members and cross-train existing ones on assembly methods, torque specs, and quality checkpoints
- Set the tone for safety, attendance, pace, and workmanship — lead by example
- Communicate clearly with the Production Manager on staffing needs, bottlenecks, and schedule risks
- Coach performance issues early and constructively; escalate when needed
Own the Assembly Process
- Perform and oversee mechanical assembly of brush cutters, snow pushers, and hoppers — including hydraulic components (motors, hoses, fittings, cylinders), gearboxes, blades, bearings, cutting edges, pivot assemblies, and hardware
- Read and interpret blueprints, BOMs, work orders, and assembly instructions
- Verify torque specifications, fitment, alignment, and function on completed units
- Perform final inspection and functional checks (including hydraulic leak checks) before units move to shipping
- Identify missing, damaged, or nonconforming components and work with fabrication, powder coating, and purchasing to resolve them
- Keep the assembly area organized, safe, and stocked
Drive Improvement
- Track daily output against schedule and flag constraints before they become misses
- Recommend fixture, layout, tooling, and process improvements that reduce assembly time or rework
- Support seasonal ramp-ups (snow pushers in late summer/fall; brush cutters in winter/spring) by planning ahead on staffing and component availability
What You'll Bring
Required
- 3 years of mechanical assembly experience in a manufacturing environment (heavy equipment, attachments, agricultural, trailer, or similar preferred)
- Demonstrated lead, supervisory, or crew-chief experience — or a clear track record of being the person others go to on the floor
- Strong working knowledge of hydraulic systems: routing hoses, installing fittings, motors, and cylinders, and leak-testing assemblies
- Proficiency with hand tools, pneumatic/electric tools, torque wrenches, and overhead hoists/lifting equipment
- Ability to read blueprints, BOMs, and work orders accurately
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly and work on your feet in a shop environment
- Reliable attendance and a safety-first mindset
Preferred
- Experience assembling skid steer or tractor attachments, or comparable fabricated/welded steel products
- Forklift certification (or ability to obtain)
- Basic weld inspection knowledge (visual acceptance criteria)
- Experience with production scheduling or ERP work-order systems
- Continuous improvement / lean manufacturing exposure
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly wage plus lead premium, commensurate with experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Overtime opportunities during seasonal peaks
- Advancement potential within a growing multi-line manufacturer
- Stable, family-owned company with a strong local reputation
How to Apply
Apply in person at our Nappanee facility (352 N Tomahawk Trail, Nappanee, IN 46550). Please include a brief summary of your assembly and leadership experience.
DH Machine Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.