Employee management in automotive production

What does your typical workday look like?

I was already very involved in production engineering during my studies. I wanted to continue developing in this direction. We are currently working on an exciting project in this area. My job is to put together the team, from deciding who would be a good fit for us to conducting interviews and reviewing technical skills. After that, I take over the onboarding process. This includes explaining various tools and applications, introducing the company and the customer, providing safety equipment, etc. Immediately afterwards, we move on to the customer. The work environment and colleagues are introduced, and training is provided. A smooth process is very important to me, as is ongoing and constant communication.

Consultation with the customer is also on my agenda. I ensure that customer expectations are in line with ALTEN’s expectations. To guarantee this, I record KPIs and check them. I always keep an eye on the status quo so that I can prevent problems. As part of this, regular reports are produced so that the next steps can be defined and risks minimized.

One of my additional challenges is to consider the human component. I also take care of all the concerns of my 27 employees – from salary requests and vacation planning to clarifying problems with the software or unclear processes. I initiate solution processes and try to impart know-how in the best possible way.

What skills are particularly important in this job? 

You should have soft skills such as strong communication skills in German and English, organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks. You also need to be able to handle conflict. Another important skill is the ability to analyze errors or problems in a structured manner and thus be able to resolve them. Hard skills include technical understanding and knowledge of production engineering, warehouse structure, and material flow.

What is your current project about?

We ensure the quality assurance of a car – in particular the interior and exterior body parts. This involves considering many different components that are supplied by a wide variety of suppliers from all over the world. Our task is to check the quality of the components delivered and ensure that they arrive at the plant at the right time. After the goods arrive, we start with an initial inspection of all components. We use a checklist that has been created in advance for each component. This initial inspection includes a visual inspection to check the component for obvious defects such as scratches, as well as a check for completeness, the inclusion of measurement reports, and correct versioning. Before the components can be installed on a pilot line, a separate process is carried out to check whether the components can be installed. This is done on a nominal component of the car body. A check is made to see whether all individual parts are flawless or whether changes need to be made, for example to the gap dimensions or other functional defects. All errors that occur are recorded and later discussed with the relevant supplier to initiate a solution process. Once all parts are free of defects, the car goes into the pilot line. Here, the cars are assembled at a slower speed so that the process can be closely monitored to understand any errors that occur and correct them. The goal is to produce a car with as few sources of error as possible so that it can go into series production.

What motivated you to take on a management role?   

This desire grew during my studies. I enjoy taking on responsibility and supporting people to move the project forward in the best possible way. That’s why I particularly like my current project, because ALTEN gives me the opportunity to lead a team and develop myself in this direction.