Lean Engineer

Job Summary: The Lean Engineer is responsible for leading and implementing Lean Manufacturing principles across local facilities with a focus on enterprise-wide operational excellence. This role drives continuous improvement, enhances operational efficiency, and reduces waste while mentoring team members and supervisors on Lean tools and methodologies. The Lean Engineer partners with Plant Leadership and cross-functional teams to optimize processes, improve quality, increase customer satisfaction, and reduce costs.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Lead Lean Manufacturing initiatives and Kaizen culture across the organization, including process mapping, value stream analysis, and identifying enterprise-wide opportunities for improvement.
• Coach and mentor supervisors, team leads, and employees on Lean tools and methodologies.
• Develop, monitor, and report Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Lean initiatives, including lead time reduction, scrap reduction, cost savings, throughput improvement, and on-time delivery performance.
• Lead cross-functional teams in Lean projects and Kaizen events, defining clear objectives, timelines, and deliverables to ensure successful completion.
• Utilize Lean problem-solving tools such as Root Cause Analysis, 8D, and Continuous Improvement methods to resolve operational issues and implement corrective actions.
• Facilitate change management processes to implement new Lean practices, overcome resistance, and embed sustainable process improvements.
• Collaborate with Plant Leadership, Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to standardize best practices and ensure alignment with operational goals.

Qualifications: 

Required

• Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Experience in process improvement, 5S deployment, Kaizen events, and Lean methodology.
• Strong proficiency in data analysis, process mapping, KPI tracking, and enterprise-level process improvement.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and coaching skills.

Preferred

• 5+ years of experience leading Lean initiatives in a manufacturing environment, preferably in engineered-to-order or heavy equipment production.

Skills and Competencies: 

• Lean Manufacturing Expertise (Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work).
• Enterprise-Level Process Improvement & Problem Solving.
• Change Leadership & Coaching.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration.
• Strong Analytical & Critical Thinking Skills.
• Effective Communication & Influence.
• Results-Driven & Customer-Focused.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset.
• Ownership of Projects & Accountability to Objectives.
• Attention to Detail & Organizational Skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Products.