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Continuous Improvement Director
Career Insights for Lean Manufacturing Engineer
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Based on Minnesota 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.
$86,661 / year median in Minnesota
+7% projected growth
Job Description
Job Description:
Description:
The Continuous Improvement (CI) Director is responsible for enhancing organizational efficiency, productivity, and profitability. They lead strategic initiatives to eliminate waste and optimize operational performance using methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma.Key Responsibilities :
Lean Strategy & Implementation:
Partner with senior leadership to design and execute Lean transformation roadmaps aligned with business goals. Lead value stream analyses, Kaizen events, and continuous improvement initiatives across departments. Facilitate the development of standard work, visual management systems, and flow optimization.Coaching & Capability Building:
Coach leaders and frontline teams on Lean thinking, problem-solving, and daily management practices. Develop and deliver training programs on Lean tools (5S, A3, VSM, Kanban, PDCA, root cause analysis, etc.). Mentor internal Lean champions to build organizational capability and ensure sustainability.Process Improvement & Performance Management:
Conduct assessments to identify improvement opportunities and eliminate waste. Support the creation of KPIs and dashboards that measure process performance and Lean maturity. Monitor progress and ensure corrective actions are implemented to achieve target outcomes.Change Management & Culture Development:
Promote a culture of continuous improvement, respect for people, and collaborative problem-solving. Develop program for Lean immersion across the company. Collaborate with peers to develop and implement the operating system for the company. Facilitate cross-functional alignment and remove barriers to transformation. Communicate successes, lessons learned, and best practices across the organization.Requirements :
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Operations, or related field (Master's preferred).
- 15+ years experience in operations leadership
- 10+ years of experience in Lean transformation, continuous improvement, or operational excellence roles.
- Lean Six Sigma Black belt or equivalent Lean certification preferred.
- Proven track record coaching leaders and teams through enterprise-level Lean initiatives.
- Experience driving transformational change in both operations and back-office environments. Additional skills :
- Deep knowledge of Lean principles, tools, and methodologies (Lean certification preferred).
- Strong facilitation, coaching, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to influence at all levels and navigate complex organizational environments.
- Analytical thinking with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
- Strong project management and change-management capabilities.
- Up to 50% travel.