Production Assistant Manager

Join Our Team at Southland Trailers

Founded 45 years ago, Southland Trailers has grown from a small operation to one of Canada's largest trailer manufacturers, with over 500 team members. Our approach is simple: people first, processes second, and products third. This philosophy drives everything we do and is the foundation of our success.

At Southland Trailers, we are committed to hard work, open communication, a positive attitude, calculated risk-taking, continuous improvements, and leading with humility and respect for every individual. We understand that these values set us apart from the competition and allow us to build trailers that meet the evolving needs of our customers.

With a commitment to LEAN manufacturing and cutting-edge technology, we deliver high-quality, reliable trailers. Our close-knit, collaborative environment empowers our team to innovate and continuously improve.

If you're looking for a place where you can make a real impact and grow with a company that values its people, Southland Trailers is the place for you

About the Role

We're looking for a Production Assistant Manager to join our team and help take Southland Trailers to the next level. In this role, you'll be part of a dynamic team that works together to drive innovation, quality, and success. If you're a self-starter who loves challenges, we want to hear from you

What You'll Do

• Lead and direct the production line for a specific product or product line, ensuring alignment with operational goals.
• Set clear priorities and assign tasks to team members to maximize efficiency and productivity.
• Drive improvements in production capacity and flexibility while minimizing costs and maintaining high-quality standards.
• Champion continuous improvement initiatives to enhance processes and product quality.
• Ensure production schedules are met, delivery deadlines are upheld, and standardized work practices are followed while maintaining safety and quality standards.
• Develop and implement LEAN manufacturing strategies to improve departmental performance and efficiency.
• Prepare and present key operational reports at weekly leadership meetings.
• Lead daily team meetings, including morning huddles and end-of-day reflections (hansei).
• Respond quickly to equipment stoppages and coordinate timely repairs with the maintenance team.
• Manage team member performance through coaching, constructive feedback, and progressive discipline when necessary.
• Support team member training and development to ensure skills and qualifications meet operational needs.
• Foster a positive, motivated, and collaborative team environment that reflects Southland's core values.

What We're Looking For

• Proven leadership experience with a strong track record of team management and development.
• Post-secondary education in a related field is an asset.
• Experience in a manufacturing or warehouse environment, with the ability to lead and motivate a team toward shared goals.
• Proficient in computer applications, including MS Office, Teams, and Outlook.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work independently and collaborate effectively across teams.
• Well-developed organizational skills, with a focus on continuous improvement and operational efficiency.
• Familiarity with safety regulations and a commitment to creating and maintaining a safe work environment.
• Skilled in scheduling, resource allocation, and meeting production timelines.
• Strong problem-solving abilities, especially under pressure.
• Experience with LEAN manufacturing principles is an asset.

Why You'll Love Working Here?

• Competitive Salary with regular performance reviews to ensure you're always recognized for your hard work.
• Career Growth: Access to great training and development opportunities that support your career journey.
• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a compressed workweek
• Social Fun: Be part of our monthly Social Club—think wing nights, hockey games, family events, BBQs, bowling, and much more
• Generous Benefits: A comprehensive benefits package for you and your family, because we care about your well-being.
• RRSP Matching to help you build a strong financial future.
• Delicious Perks: Access to our in-house cafeteria, serving fresh, hot breakfast, lunch, and snacks daily
• Living Wage Employer: Proud to be a certified Living Wage Employer and recognized by HRDC as one of the Best Places to Work 2024 & 2025

How to Apply

Ready to take the next step in your career? We want to hear from you Please submit your resume and be sure to include your email address and phone number and let us know why you'd be a perfect fit for the role.

We thank all applicants for their interest in joining Southland Trailers; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

By applying for this position, you consent to Southland Trailer contacting you via the phone number and email address provided.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: From $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 – 44 per week

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Lethbridge, AB: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Application question(s):

• What is the best email to reach you at?

Experience:

• Leadership: 1 year (required)

Work Location: In person