Lead Panel Builder

Who We Are At TRL Controls, we design and manufacture industrial electrical control and distribution panels for integration into our customers' equipment and production systems. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction drives everything we do. We are building a team of skilled professionals who take pride in producing high-quality control panels while maintaining the highest standards of safety and craftsmanship. As part of our continued growth in Mesa, Arizona, we are seeking an experienced Lead Panel Builder to help build and lead our production team. Position Summary Lead Panel Builder is a hands-on leadership position responsible for leading a team of electrical panel builders while actively participating in the assembly, wiring, testing, and troubleshooting of industrial control panels. This role combines technical expertise with day-to-day leadership to ensure products are built safely, accurately, and on schedule. The Lead Panel Builder serves as the technical resource for the department, coaches employees, promotes continuous improvement, and helps establish a culture of accountability, quality, and teamwork. Reporting to the Production Supervisor, this position is expected to lead by example and set the standard for workmanship, productivity, and professionalism. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Technical Leadership · Build, wire, modify, and test industrial electrical control panels from electrical schematics and layout drawings. · Perform panel layout, drilling, tapping, component mounting, and point-to-point wiring. · Perform electrical testing and basic troubleshooting. · Verify completed panels meet quality standards before release. · Identify manufacturing issues and implement corrective actions. · Support Engineering with design feedback and manufacturability improvements. · Assist with prototype builds and process improvements. · Ensure compliance with UL, NEC, company standards, and customer specifications. Team Leadership · Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Panel Builders. · Assign work based on production schedules and employee skill level. · Train new employees and support ongoing cross-training. · Monitor productivity, quality, attendance, and overall team performance. · Conduct daily production meetings and communicate priorities. · Foster teamwork, accountability, and a positive work environment. · Assist with interviewing and onboarding new employees. · Provide coaching and performance feedback. Production & Continuous Improvement · Ensure production schedules are achieved while maintaining quality standards. · Coordinate with Engineering, Quality, Materials, and Production Planning. · Drive Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives. · Develop and maintain standardized work instructions. · Monitor production metrics and identify opportunities for improvement. · Assist with inventory accuracy and material flow. Safety & Quality · Promote and enforce all safety policies and procedures. · Ensure proper PPE is used at all times. · Participate in incident investigations and corrective actions. · Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area using 5S principles. · Lead by example in safety, quality, and professionalism. Qualifications Required · High School Diploma or GED. · 3–5 years of experience building industrial electrical control panels. · At least 1 year of experience leading, mentoring, or training employees in a manufacturing environment. · Strong ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, blueprints, and Bills of Material (BOMs). · Experience wiring PLC-based industrial control panels. · Strong knowledge of industrial electrical control components. · Ability to perform electrical testing and troubleshooting. · Experience using common hand and power tools. · Excellent organizational and communication skills. · Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Preferred · Experience in custom control panel manufacturing. · Familiarity with UL 508A standards. · Working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC). · Experience with ERP/MRP systems (Odoo, Epicor, SAP, Oracle, etc.). · Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma experience. Physical Requirements · Lift and move up to 50 pounds. · Stand, bend, kneel, reach, and walk throughout the workday. · Climb portable ladders as needed. · Excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity. · Ability to safely wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Why Join TRL Controls? · Competitive compensation · Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance · 401(k) with Company Match · Paid Holidays & Paid Time Off · Career advancement opportunities · Clean, climate-controlled manufacturing facility · Opportunity to help build a world-class control panel manufacturing operation from the ground up · Collaborative, team-oriented culture focused on quality and continuous improvement Pay: $33.00 - $38.00 per hour Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Experience: Panel Building: 3 years (Preferred) Leadership: 1 year (Preferred) Work Location: In person