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Continuous Improvement Engineer
Career Insights for Lean Manufacturing Engineer
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Based on Iowa data
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What they do
A Lean Manufacturing Engineer develops LEAN work methodology within a manufacturing environment, optimizes machining processes to reach optimum product quality, efficiency and process repeatability at the lowest cost. Leads and deploys best practices in the manufacturing process by supporting continuous improvement in various manufacturing processes by reducing the tooling costs and improving the flow of material and setting up cycle times.
$91,917 / year median in Iowa
+12% projected growth
Job Description
Continuous Improvement Engineer
- Lean Manufacturing / Kaizen / 3
P Location:
Centerville, IA- On-site |
Relocation Assistance Available Pay:
$70,000- 100,000+ DOE + 5%
Annual Bonus Schedule:
Monday-Friday, approximately 8:00 AM-5:00 PM with occasional flexibility based on production/project needs Our client is an established manufacturer specializing in custom products for the commercial food retail industry. Operating in a low-volume, high-mix manufacturing environment, the company is focused on transforming its operations through Lean principles, continuous improvement, and employee development. The facility offers a collaborative, high-tenure culture where this person will have the opportunity to make a visible impact on how the organization operates. They are looking for you, an experienced Continuous Improvement Engineer , to join their team in a direct-hire role. This position will help drive measurable, sustainable improvements across manufacturing operations while coaching employees and developing Lean capabilities throughout the organization. This is a highly hands-on role for someone who enjoys facilitating change, solving problems, and working directly with cross-functional teams.What you get to do:
- Lead and facilitate hands-on Kaizen events with cross-functional teams
- Coach employees and leaders on Lean tools, structured problem solving, and continuous improvement principles
- Support new product introductions and production pilots through the 3P process
- Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve processes, and drive measurable operational improvements
- Lead multiple continuous improvement projects and initiatives simultaneously
- Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and other departments
- Train and coach teams on Lean fundamentals including 5S, Kaizen, Poka-Yoke, Value Stream Mapping, and other CI tools
- Help develop and strengthen the organizations overall Lean/Continuous Improvement culture
- Track results, document improvements, and help ensure changes are sustainable
- Share best practices and support continuous improvement initiatives across facilities What you need to succeed:
- 3+ years of hands-on Continuous Improvement, Lean, or Operational Excellence experience
- Proven experience personally leading and facilitating Kaizen events , not simply participating in them
- Experience supporting new product introductions, 3P processes, production pilots, or similar manufacturing initiatives
- Strong understanding of Lean principles and tools such as 5S, Kaizen, Poka-Yoke, VSM, structured problem solving, and waste reduction
- Manufacturing or industrial experience; industry-specific experience is not required
- Strong facilitation, coaching, communication, and change-management skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while working independently
- Bachelors degree preferred; equivalent hands-on experience will be considered
- Candidates without a degree should bring approximately 5-7+ years of relevant hands-on experience
- Strong Microsoft Office skills; experience with Excel, Power BI, or similar tracking/reporting tools is a plus What's in it for you:
- Competitive base salary of $70K
- 100K+ depending on experience
- 5% annual bonus opportunity
- Relocation assistance available
- lump-sum packages are customized based on the move and may range up to approximately $20K
- Relocation payments are grossed up , allowing you to receive the intended relocation amount without absorbing the associated tax burden
- Access to a dedicated relocation consultant for moving resources, planning, and service referrals
- Potential sign-on bonus and additional compensation flexibility for highly qualified candidates
- Direct-hire opportunity with an established manufacturing organization
- Opportunity to play a major role in transforming a manufacturing operation and strengthening its Lean culture
- Collaborative, non-union facility with strong employee tenure and experienced leadership
- Minimal travel
- typically around once per month to a nearby sister facility
- On-site role in Centerville, IA, with the option to live in surrounding areas such as Ottumwa and commute Apply now!