Continuous Improvement Engineer IV

Zone5Technologies; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 135,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive total compensation

Comprehensive benefits package

401k with company-match

4 weeks of paid time off per year

12 annual company holidays

Job summary

Zone 5 Technologies is seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer IV to drive sitewide process improvements across multiple programs. You will lead cross-functional initiatives, support PFMEA, and advance Lean standards to ensure efficient, cost-effective production.

The role emphasizes data-driven decision making, collaboration with engineers and operations, and adherence to AS9100 and safety standards as the company grows in unmanned aircraft systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• 7+ years of industrial, manufacturing, or process engineering experience.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, Black Belt Certification preferred.
• Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and manufacturing process flows.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis tools, including SPC, process capability analysis, hypothesis testing, and DOE, to drive data-based process improvements.
• Strong analytical, communication, facilitation, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven cross-functional leadership and decision-making skills.
• Proven management or supervision of others.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional, sitewide process improvement initiatives.
• Support PFMEA efforts with design and manufacturing engineering teams.
• Oversees business process improvement initiatives for policy and strategy development.
• Develop and deploy site-wide Lean initiatives and standards.
• Resolve complex, cross-disciplinary production issues with Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Lead capacity planning and production scaling initiatives.
• Serve as escalation point for improvement risks and decisions.
• Leads make/buy decisions and supplier manufacturing readiness.
• Follow AS9100, safety, and configuration control requirements.

Job description

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

The Continuous Improvement Engineer IV serves as the technical authority for manufacturing process improvements across business programs or value streams. This role defines continuous improvement strategy, supporting scale and ensuring production systems are efficient and cost-effective. Tasks and responsibilities expected for this role include those captured by lower role specific levels.

This role involves working closely with engineers, production technicians, and operations teams to support multiple programs and value streams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional, sitewide process improvement initiatives
• Support PFMEA efforts with design and manufacturing engineering teams
• Oversees business process improvement initiatives for policy and strategy development
• Develop and deploy site-wide Lean initiatives and standards
• Resolve complex, cross-disciplinary production issues with Lean Manufacturing principles
• Lead capacity planning and production scaling initiatives
• Serve as escalation point for improvement risks and decisions
• Leads make/buy decisions and supplier manufacturing readiness
• Follow AS9100, safety, and configuration control requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering (or equivalent experience)
• 7+ years of industrial, manufacturing, or process engineering experience
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, Black Belt Certification preferred
• Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and manufacturing process flows
• Proficiency in statistical analysis tools, including SPC, process capability analysis, hypothesis testing, and DOE, to drive data-based process improvements
• Strong analytical, communication, facilitation, and problem-solving skills
• Proven cross-functional leadership and decision-making skills
• Proven management or supervision of others

Pay range for this role

$135,000 - $165,000 USD

What's in it for you

Benefits

• Competitive total compensation package
• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
• 401k with company-match
• 4 weeks of paid time off each year
• 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies

• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov .