Description:
Workshop Operations Manager
Employment basis: Full-Time
Location: Big Dog Builds Workshop: Caboolture
Team Size: 15+ Fitters & Workshop Support
Who We Are
Big Dog Builds, in a nutshell, builds American Trucks… the Aussie way. We specialise in the aftermarket and modifications of RAM, Chevy, Ford and GMC trucks where we make it our mission to ensure our customers drive away in the Truck of their dreams.
Australians set the standard in the global off-road/4x4 industry and Big Dog Builds is the new market leader producing big yank tanks designed for our customers to travel in comfort and in style while they explore the rugged beauty of Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes.
The Position
The Workshop Operations Manager is responsible for running the day-to-day operations of the Big Dog Builds production floor — ensuring vehicles arrive stock and leave as fully modified, high-quality builds. This role leads the team, owns the schedule, solves problems in real time, and works across departments to deliver badass trucks on time and at quality.
You’re the go-to person on the floor. You make sure the right trucks are in the right bays, fitters know what they’re doing, customers get what they’re expecting, and nothing slips through the cracks.
Key Responsibilities
Daily Production Execution:
• Open the shed at 5:45am and ensure the workshop is prepped.
• Lead the 8:00am daily meeting with scheduling, concierge, and third-party manager.
• Own the daily schedule: move trucks, assign bays, and ensure fitters are clear.
• Walk the floor regularly, check in with the team, and adjust plans in real time.
• Review progress at midday and lock in the next day’s schedule.
Fitment Oversight & Problem Solving:
• Resolve fitter questions and challenges during builds.
• Make the call on where and how accessories get fitted if there’s uncertainty.
• Monitor quality and ensure each build follows the correct process.
• Work with the Leading Hand to review QC pickups and correct recurring issues.
Customer Experience Support:
• Attend all customer vehicle check-ins with the Concierge team.
• Be present for handovers, walk-throughs, and escalate to the customer where needed.
• Help manage warranty claims — approve remote work or schedule returns.
Internal Production Job Management:
• Plan and manage pre-assembly of:
• Bull bars
• Roof racks
• Under-seat battery systems
• Harnesses
• Air onboard systems
• Allocate resources to internal production work and keep it ahead of the live schedule.
Workshop Process Improvement:
• Identify bottlenecks or process gaps and fix them.
• Create or refine checklists, tools, or build flows to improve throughput.
• Trial improvements and help the team adopt new systems.
Team Culture & Leadership:
• Brief the team each morning with clarity and confidence.
• Support team morale through Friday food and culture-building moments.
• Lead by example on safety, attitude, and Big Dog Builds quality.
Skills & Experience
• Experience running a workshop or production team in a 4x4 or automotive environment
• Strong technical knowledge of 4x4 modifications and fitment
• Clear communicator with fitters, managers, and customers
• Confident decision-maker and problem solver under pressure
• Organised, calm, and proactive — not reactive
• Hands-on leader who’s happy walking the shed and stepping in when needed
What’s in it for you?
- Permanent full-time position
- Join the fastest growing and industry leading American truck modification shop in the southern hemisphere
- Join a fantastic team with a work culture that puts people first
HOW TO APPLY
Simply send in your CV and cover letter to info@bigdogbuilds.com and we'll take it from there.