CI Engineer: Lean, Kaizen & Process Improvement

Howmet Aerospace; Brea (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Medical benefits

Competitive compensation

Job summary

Howmet Aerospace is seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer in California to lead Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen initiatives across manufacturing operations. You will drive process optimization, monitor KPIs, and collaborate with Operations, Engineering, QA, EHS, and Supply Chain to drive sustainable gains.

The role requires 7+ years in manufacturing/process improvement, strong data analytics, and ERP (JDE) proficiency; export-control eligibility applies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial, mechanical, manufacturing engineering or a related field.
• 7+ years in manufacturing, production planning, or process improvement with APQP, FMEA, SPC, MSA.
• Previous supervisory experience leading salaried teams of 4–7+.
• Knowledge of ERP (JDE), MS Office Suite and productivity tools.
• Strong problem-solving, statistical analysis, project management, and communication skills.
• Export-controlled data eligibility required.

Responsibilities

• Analyze manufacturing and production processes to identify areas for improvement; implement Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to optimize workflows.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data (KPIs, process audits, FMEA, SPC) to measure improvement effectiveness.
• Lead and facilitate Kaizen events, process audits, and improvement projects; manage timelines, resources, and deliverables.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, standard operating procedures, and standardized work charts.
• Work with engineering, QA, EHS, supply chain, and operations to integrate improvements and ensure sustainability.
• Train and mentor staff on new processes, tools, and improvement techniques.
• Select, develop, and maintain tools, fixtures, and equipment to support process improvements.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations; contribute to EHS initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned to meet department goals.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Data analysis

Project management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

JDE ERP

MS Office

Process mapping tools

Job description

Howmet Aerospace is seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer in California to lead Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen initiatives across manufacturing operations. You will drive process optimization, monitor KPIs, and collaborate with Operations, Engineering, QA, EHS, and Supply Chain to drive sustainable gains.

The role requires 7+ years in manufacturing/process improvement, strong data analytics, and ERP (JDE) proficiency; export-control eligibility applies.