Deputy Manager Panel Shop Production

Job Title

Location

Role Overview

We are seeking a results-driven and technically skilled professional to lead Panel Shop operations, focused on body panel manufacturing and fitment for electric buses and commercial vehicles. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in sheet metal fabrication, panel fitment, and managing large-scale vehicle body assembly lines with a strong focus on quality and productivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the daily operations of the panel shop including fabrication, fitment, hemming, and assembly of side panels, roof panels, front & rear panels, etc.
  
• Ensure dimensional accuracy, alignment, and proper gap/flush levels of body panels as per design specifications.
  
• Coordinate with Design and R&D teams for feasibility checks, tooling validation, and improvements in panel designs.
  
• Implement jigs and fixtures for precise fitment and alignment of panels; ensure regular maintenance of tools and equipment.
  
• Monitor and control production KPIs such as cycle time, rejection rates, rework, and manpower productivity.
  
• Drive continuous improvement activities through Lean, Kaizen, 5S, and other best practices.
  
• Resolve quality issues related to panel deformation, welding inconsistencies, or assembly defects using structured problem-solving tools.
  
• Maintain safety, housekeeping, and compliance with ISO/IATF standards in the work area.
  
• Guide and mentor engineers, supervisors, and operators for process knowledge, skill development, and efficient work practices.
  
• Manage inventory of sheet metal parts, fasteners, and consumables; coordinate with SCM for part availability.
  
• Participate in new product launches (NPI) and ensure smooth ramp-up with right-first-time quality.
  

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of sheet metal fabrication, MIG/TIG welding, riveting, hemming, and panel assembly techniques.
  
• Hands-on experience with jigs, fixtures, and tooling used in panel production.
  
• Knowledge of geometric dimensioning & tolerancing (GD&T) and use of measurement tools (Vernier, Height Gauge, Faro Arm, etc.).
  
• Excellent problem-solving abilities using 7QC tools, Root Cause Analysis, and CAPA methods.
  
• Leadership and team management skills to drive performance and maintain discipline on the shop floor.
  
• Familiarity with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and safety & environmental regulations (EMS).