Job Title:

Group Leader (Automotive Manufacturing)

Type of Position:

This position will begin as a 12-month contract, with strong potential for long-term employment. While the contract is initially set for 12 months, there is no fixed end date, and extensions beyond the initial term are possible. Conversion to a direct hire role may occur as early as 4 months, depending on individual performance and business needs. Although direct hire is not guaranteed, it is a common outcome for high-performing team members, and most contractors in this role do transition to permanent positions over time.

Candidate Requirements:

This role is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship now or in the future. Candidates must be either U.S. Citizens or US Permanent Residents (Green Card holders). Candidates who require or currently hold work authorization through F-1 CPT, F-1 OPT, H-1B, TN, or any other temporary visa or employment authorization classification are not eligible for this position. This role is not open to corp-to-corp (C2C) or corp-to-hire (C2H) arrangements, no exceptions.

Job Location:

Lockport, NY (on site role).

Compensation:

$45.00/hr to $50.00/hr (depending on experience) to start. There may be additional flexibility for well qualified candidates. Overtime is paid at 1.5x for all hours worked over 40, and any Sunday will be paid at double time (2.0x) after 40 hours. There will be a $0.50/hr off-shift premium if working off-shift.

Benefits:

• Available (medical, dental, 401k, vision, etc) – benefit eligibility begins 1st of the month after 30 days of employment.
• You will have 7 paid holidays and 10 days PTO per year (PTO accrues over time). There will be significantly more PTO in converting to direct hire.

Job Description:

HRU Technical Resources has partnered with a major automotive manufacturer to hire a Group Leader to work in our manufacturing facility in Lockport, NY. This facility is connected to the production of climate control and powertrain cooling systems. The facility produces radiators, condensers, heater cores, and HVAC modules for trucks and SUVs, while producing stator modules for electric vehicles.

We’re seeking experienced and motivated leaders within Production, Quality, and Global Supply Chain (GSC) operations. This role is responsible for leading manufacturing teams, driving operational excellence, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives in a fast-paced production environment. As a Group Leader, you'll oversee daily operations, develop employees, solve complex manufacturing challenges, and help deliver world-class products while supporting our transition to electric and autonomous vehicles. Success in this position requires strong leadership, sound decision-making, and a commitment to Safety, People, Quality, Responsiveness, Cost, and Environment (SPQRCE).

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and develop hourly employees and technical personnel to achieve operational objectives.
• Coach employees, address performance concerns, and foster a culture of accountability and teamwork.
• Promote employee engagement and support continuous learning and development.
• Manage change effectively while maintaining productivity in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Operations Management

• Monitor daily production schedules and adjust operations to meet changing business demands.
• Prioritize multiple responsibilities while maintaining production efficiency and quality standards.
• Drive operational performance through effective planning, communication, and execution.
• Apply independent judgment within the Global Manufacturing System framework.

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Lead problem-solving initiatives to improve safety, quality, productivity, and operational performance.
• Support Built-in-Quality initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to resolve production and quality issues.
• Utilize Lean Manufacturing principles and other process improvement methodologies when applicable.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma OR GED is required (higher level education is also welcome).
• Minimum 2 years of leadership or management experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Experience leading teams and addressing employee performance concerns.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and conflict resolution abilities.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment with changing priorities.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications and email.
• Willingness to work rotating shifts.
• Availability to work weekends as business needs require (approximately two weekends per month).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Manufacturing or automotive industry experience.
• Experience supervising employees in a union environment.
• Supply Chain, Production, or Quality leadership experience.
• Knowledge of Continuous Improvement (CI/CIP) methodologies.
• Throughput Improvement Process (TIP) experience.
• Lean Manufacturing experience.
• Experience implementing Built-in-Quality initiatives.
• Red X and/or DFSS certification.
• Knowledge of manufacturing timekeeping systems.
• Military leadership experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

• This position requires working in an active manufacturing environment that may be loud and not climate controlled.
• Candidates must be able to: stand and walk for extended periods, frequently bend, twist, kneel, crouch, and reach. Lift and carry materials up to 15 pounds regularly and up to 40 pounds occasionally. Occasionally climb ladders or lifts and operate company vehicles or equipment. Read work instructions, operate manufacturing equipment, and perform quality inspections. Recognize and respond promptly to safety signals, alarms, and instructions. Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, hard hats, and safety footwear.

Work Environment / Other Info:

• This role works across multiple shifts. We need candidates who are flexible. Shift hours are as follows: 1st shift = 6:00am to 2:30pm, 2nd shift = 2:00pm to 10:30pm, 3rd shift = 10:00pm to 6:30am
• Work will be Monday to Friday with some Saturdays as well. Occasional Sundays are required. Generally speaking, you can expect to work every other weekend.
• This role typically includes about 10-20 hours of overtime per week. Overtime is paid at 1.5x for all hours worked over 40, and any Sunday will be paid at double time (2.0x) after 40 hours.
• Offer may be contingent upon a background check, and a drug screen (drug screen would NOT include cannabis).
• HRU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

How to Apply for This Job:

To apply for this position, please follow these steps: Apply for this job with your current resume. We’ll get back to you the same day with some feedback on your application. Next you’ll be invited to an online screening conversation so we can go over the job requirements together and you can ask questions. After this stage we’ll give you more feedback on your application and select the candidates to move forward in the process. Typically steps 1 to 4 takes less than 24 hours.

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