Lead Hand, Assembly & Test

Company Description

Founded in 1995, Promation is a leading integrator and manufacturer of high-quality tooling, automation, and robotic systems in Oakville, Ontario. We deliver custom equipment and turnkey systems globally, from assembly to vision inspection systems, to provide the best automation solutions. Our dedicated team of PLC designers and engineering professionals ensure top-notch products and services, supported by the Nuclear, Automation, and Industrial divisions.

Role Description

The Lead Hand, Assembly & Test serves in a dual capacity as both a skilled Assembly Technician and a team lead, playing a critical role in the hands-on assembly and testing of custom tooling and machinery. This role bridges the gap between leadership and execution by providing direction, technical support, and coordination to the assembly team. Will be working closely with the Supervisor, Assembly & Test, the Lead Hand ensures the effective daily execution of work plans, maintaining alignment with project schedules, specifications, and safety, health, and quality standards. In addition to performing mechanical assembly and testing-including functional and factory acceptance testing (FAT)-the Lead Hand leads daily tasks, facilitates pre-job meetings, and enforces compliance with company policies and customer requirements.

Responsibilities also include material requisitioning, enforcing WHMIS and safety practices, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment. The Lead Hand is accountable for upholding QA standards throughout the build process by ensuring proper documentation, resolving assembly-related issues, and supporting Engineering in test planning. This position is key to drivinq continuous improvement across the Assembly & Test department.

Core Duties & Responsibilities

Assembly Operations & Leadership

• Perform hands-on mechanical assembly of tools and equipment based on technical drawings, procedures, and specifications.
• Lead and support the Assembly Technicians by assigning daily tasks, setting priorities, and communicating project requirements.
• Host pre-job meetings to ensure scopes are understood, risks are considered, and appropriate equipment is in place.
• Review drawing packages in advance and highlight issues prior to starting the build.
• Confirm kitting is completed and verify that all required materials, parts, and tools are available and ready before assembly begins.
• Maintain QA-imposed hold and verification points throughout the assembly process.
• Assist technicians during daily activities, encouraging a collaborative and efficient work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Supervisor or Manager.

Quality Assurance

• Ensure adherence to all MITP requirements, including hold, witness, and inspection points during assembly and testing.
• Initiate and support Engineering Change Requests (ECRs) or Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) for assembly-related issues (execution by Production Coordinator).
• Ensure full compliance with QA and QC documentation and maintain accurate build records.
• Enforce proper quarantine and release protocols for non-conforming materials.
• Collaborate with the Supervisor in reviewing and releasing drawing packages.

Material Coordination & Purchasing

• Coordinate with the Supervisor, Assembly & Test, to requisition consumables and special tooling in a timely and accurate manner.
• Confirm kitting are complete and ready prior to job start, and escalate missing or delayed items as needed.

Health, Safety & Housekeeping

• Adhere to all health and safety policies, WHMIS regulations, and safe work practices.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, allocating at least 15 minutes daily to housekeeping tasks.
• Monitor expiration dates for consumables and ensure timely and safe disposal of expired materials.
• Promote a strong safety culture by leading by example.

Other Duties

• Perform other tasks and responsibilities as assigned by management.
• Uphold Promation's Personal Charter, Code of Conduct, Vision, Mission, and Core Values

Qualifications

• Post secondary diploma and/or certificate in a relevant field (e.g. industrial or mechanical engineering technologisUtechnician, industrial mechanic (Millwright), electro-mechanical technician) QI directly relevant working experience
• 5+ years of directly related assembly I quality field experience, where production challenges are continuously unique rather than repetitive in nature.
• 3-5 years of experience reading blueprints
• 2+ plus years of directly related assembly experience within the Nuclear Industry

Skills

• Mechanical Expertise: Strong technical knowledge and hands-on experience in mechanical assembly, precision fitting, and basic machining practices.
• Quality Assurance: Familiarity with QA/QC processes, including the use of hold points, inspection criteria, and compliance documentation.
• Problem Solving: Proven ability to troubleshoot and resolve production, process, and quality-related issues independently and effectively.
• Nuclear Tooling Knowledge: Working understanding of nuclear tooling systems and reactor outage equipment is preferred.
• Blueprint and Instrument Proficiency: Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and use precision measuring instruments such as dial gauges, micrometers, and calipers.
• Mechanical Awareness: Capable of identifying and interpreting variations in machine performance, including abnormal noises or behavior.
• Team Collaboration: Effective team player with experience working in multi-disciplinary project teams and cross-functional environments.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey technical information clearly and collaborate across departments.
• Leadership Ability: Demonstrated leadership skills, including the ability to delegate tasks, organize workflow, and guide team members to meet objectives efficiently and safely.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Participation in our Retirement Saving Plan & Deferred Profit-Sharing Plan.
• Ongoing opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Exciting and unique projects to grow and develop your career!
• A flexible and supportive work environment.

This job posting is for an active, existing vacancy within our organization. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring based on sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, colour, religious creed, ethnic origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, provincial, or local law. If you require accommodation for any part of the recruitment process, please contact us and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Salary Range: $80,000 - $85,000