Mechanical Assembly Technician (Birmingham: MODE)

Job Description

Job Description

Our History: 

The Storyteller Overland vibe started out as a drawing on a restaurant napkin in 2017 illustrating a desire to help people live more adventurous lives. Back then, very few had ever heard of an adventure van, and some at the restaurant table with Founder Jeffrey Hunter had doubts it would ever sell.

The company officially launched in 2018 with a humble yet confident team of seven employees. Over the next year, we worked on launching our MODE 4x4 and finding dealer partners to work with, and finally, the dream was turning into a reality.

We’ve been fortunate to be full speed ahead since then. We’ve added sister companies to our galaxy and built out quite the impressive team – hopefully you included. We hit 500 vans built, then 1,000, then so many more that these milestones became difficult to keep track of. We’ve added new vehicles to our lineup and have built a massive community of like-minded adventurers that also continues to grow.

Today, Storyteller Overland is the most expansive adventure vehicle company in North America built on an authentic spirit of adventure, a passion for exceptionally well-crafted rigs, and a deep love and affinity for the community of owners we serve.

As we reflect on our history, though, we remind ourselves that our best ideas are still ahead of us, not behind us. Here’s to saying yes to the next grand adventure!

Workplace Vibe:

We are proud to have a values-based culture, which means we focus less on rules & transacting and more on values & transforming. Our goal is to create workplaces and spaces where great people can do great things in order to thrive and flourish both professionally and personally. 

Overview: 

Storyteller Overland is currently seeking a highly motivated entry-level Mechanical Assembly Technician to work on 4WD Expedition Vehicle Chassis Assembly.  You will work closely with the technical team on a variety of projects, including prototype builds; chassis upgrades including the addition of four-wheel drive, advanced hydraulic suspension system upgrades, chassis modifications, and assembly of the living quarters cabs to the chassis. You will assume responsibility for the quality of the work and deliverables in direct support of the company’s exciting continuous improvement and growth initiatives. This is an amazing opportunity for a candidate who has tremendous mechanical aptitude, loves off-road vehicles, camping, overlanding, and wants to learn something new every day. 

General Responsibilities:

• Perform upgrades to suspension systems on Sprinter chassis to improve handling, performance, and load capacity,
• Ensure all components are installed to manufacturer and company specifications, with safety and reliability as top priorities,
• Install four-wheel-drive conversion kits, including drivetrain components, transfer cases, and axles. Verify proper alignment, torque specifications, and operational function after installation,
• Modify chassis and cab structures to accommodate the specialized requirements of expedition vehicles,
• Install and secure custom aftermarket components such as bumpers, grills, storage racks, storage boxes, and winches,
• Safely remove and mount tires using appropriate tools and equipment then perform balancing or alignment checks when necessary to ensure safe vehicle operation,
• Install sub-frames onto vehicle chassis to provide structural support for expedition vehicle living quarters,
• Mount and connect diesel heaters and hydronic heating systems to vehicle chassis, ensuring proper fuel, coolant, and electrical connections,
• Conduct basic engine work such as fluid checks, oil changes, and other preventive maintenance tasks. 
• Perform light fabrication, including cutting, grinding, drilling, or welding, to modify or produce brackets, mounts, or other parts needed for installations,
• Work independently in the absence of direct supervision, while also assisting team members with fabrication, installation, and testing tasks,
• Partner with the Engineering team to troubleshoot issues during builds. Provide feedback on design challenges, recommend practical solutions, and implement adjustments to achieve high-quality results,
• Read and interpret detailed mechanical drawings, schematics, and diagrams to execute builds according to engineering and design specifications,
• Use common and precision measuring instruments such as tape measures, vernier calipers, and laser levels to verify tolerances, ensure accuracy, and maintain quality standards,
• Take pride in upholding Storyteller’s reputation by building products with the care and precision expected by the vanlife and adventure community,
• Perform other work as needed and assigned. 

Work Schedule:

• (4) 10-hour shifts:  Monday - Thursday 6:00am - 5:00pm with 1 hour for lunch

Qualifications/Requirements:

The ability to address and rectify any quality issues or defects in the production process promptly, implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product quality and production efficiency, manage inventory levels of raw materials, hardware, and other supplies required for production, coordinate with purchasing departments to ensure a smooth supply chain and avoid production delays, optimize resource allocation to maximize productivity and minimize waste, enforce safety regulations and ensure that all team members adhere to safety guidelines, conduct safety training, and maintain a safe working environment for all employees.

Education/Experience/Skills:  

• AAS Technical/Trade degree or associate degree preferred, and/or relevant experience
• Automotive experience is a must
• Diesel training is preferred but not required
• General knowledge of computers, electrical assembly, basic electronic troubleshooting, mechanical assembly and repair, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and/or audio-visual equipment operation desired
• Ability to read electrical/mechanical drawings, equipment manuals, and technical specifications
• Willingness and ability to learn additional technical skills within the automotive and manufacturing industries
• Able to follow process instructions accurately and consistently
• Ability to handle various tools (e.g. pliers) and heavy equipment (e.g. lift)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Well organized, detail-oriented, and able to work on multiple tasks simultaneously
• Self-motivated, able to take responsibility, and a flexible attitude
• Strong interpersonal skills and a desire to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
• Valid certification (e.g. ASE) is a definite plus
• A valid driver’s license is required
  

Position Scorecard: 

• Core Competencies: Mechanical Aptitude, Attention to detail, Problem Solving & Adaptability, Collaboration, Communicative, Physical Stamina, Time Management, Technological Proficiency, Customer-Focused Approach
• Position Mission: As a Mechanical Assembly Technician, your mission is to expertly assemble and customize high-performance adventure vehicles, ensuring precision, durability, and adherence to safety standards.
• Anticipated Outcomes: Through meticulous attention to detail and a customer-focused approach, you will contribute to delivering rugged, reliable vehicles that meet and exceed the expectations of adventure enthusiasts, in alignment with our production schedule. 

Physical Requirements: 

• The ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds
• This job entails prolonged periods of standing and walking around the manufacturing floor
• Precision and coordination are crucial for assembling intricate components and operating machinery. Employees must be capable of using hand and power tools with a steady hand
• Assembly tasks may require reaching, stretching, and bending to access components, equipment, and workstations as well as the ability to stoop, kneel, or crouch is necessary for accessing low-lying work areas and performing assembly tasks close to the ground
• Employees must have good visual acuity to inspect and ensure the quality of components and products. This may involve reading technical documents and operating machinery with precision
• The role may require the ability to hear and respond to alarms, machinery sounds, and co-worker communication in a manufacturing environment
• For tasks involving computer work or documentation, employees may be required to sit for extended periods
• Exposure to Hazardous Materials: In some cases, employees may be exposed to chemicals or substances used in the manufacturing process. Proper safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided
  

Candidates should be aware that the physical demands listed above are representative but not exhaustive. The role may require additional physical tasks not listed here, depending on specific job assignments and production needs. Accommodations will be made in compliance with applicable laws for individuals with disabilities.

Exemption Status: Non-exempt