Lead Assembly Operator – Automotive Assembly

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Job Title:

Lead Assembly Operator – Automotive Assembly

Location:

Stoke-on-Trent

Salary Range: £28,000–£30,000 per annum (depending on experience)

Help us build something extraordinary by joining Rhenus Automotive as we launch a brand-new automotive assembly operation in the UK. Part of a global logistics leader with over 41,000 employees across more than 70 countries, Rhenus Automotive delivers end-to-end solutions for the automotive industry, spanning supply chain management through to full-scale assembly.

This role is ideal for an experienced assembly professional ready to step into a senior position within a growing operation. As a Lead Assembly Operator, you will lead by example on the shop floor, support colleagues, and play an active role in driving continuous improvement. There is clear potential for this position to develop into a Team Leader role as the operation expands.

In this hands‑on role, you will help establish robust assembly processes while acting as a key point of support as the team grows. You will ensure all work is completed efficiently, safely, and to the highest quality standards, demonstrating strong technical capability, a proactive mindset, and natural leadership qualities that set the standard for performance and behaviour.

At Rhenus, we believe everyone plays a crucial role in our success. Whether you’re driving a truck, managing inventory, or handling customer enquiries, your actions make a difference. We value practical solutions, quick decision‑making, and empower our people to take ownership of their work.

Recognised as a top employer and united by a shared goal, we are committed to fostering a workplace culture that encourages entrepreneurial spirit, continuous growth, and excellence. The future isn’t just built by the company—it’s shaped by each of us working together. Join our Rhenus community to make an impact and grow alongside passionate people dedicated to making a difference.

• Carry out complex and standard assembly tasks to required specifications and quality standards
• Support the setup and smooth running of assembly lines and processes
• Ensure all work is completed in line with production targets and deadlines

• Act as a senior, reliable point of contact for team members on shift
• Provide on‑the‑job guidance, coaching, and support to operators
• Lead by example in productivity, quality, and workplace standards
• Support onboarding and training of new employees

• Identify inefficiencies, issues, or bottlenecks within assembly processes
• Suggest and support improvements to optimise productivity and quality
• Assist in implementing standardised work practices

• Ensure all products meet required quality standards and specifications
• Follow company procedures, work instructions, and safety guidelines at all times
• Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment

• Promote a strong safety culture within the team
• Ensure adherence to all health and safety regulations and practices
• Proactively identify and report hazards or unsafe conditions

• Proven experience in an assembly or production environment
• Strong hands‑on assembly skills with excellent attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to support or guide others in a team setting
• Good communication skills and a proactive, can‑do attitude

• Current forklift truck licence (counterbalance or reach) advantageous