Disaster Recovery Lean Transformation Lead

Strongward; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 92,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Strongward seeks a Continuous Improvement Manager to embed Toyota Production System and Lean into disaster recovery, housing construction, and client services. The role improves quality, reduces waste, and shortens the time from disaster to recovery.

The manager leads improvement initiatives, coaches staff on practical problem solving, and partners with cross‑functional teams to achieve operational excellence aligned with Strongward’s mission.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in operations, construction management, business, or a related field is required.
• 5–7 years of experience in process optimization, Lean manufacturing, business operations, or continuous improvement; nonprofit/construction/humanitarian settings preferred.
• Strong practical understanding of Lean, Six Sigma, value stream mapping, KPI development, change management, and operational performance improvement.
• Soft skills: analytical thinking, communication, facilitation, and change leadership with influence without authority.
• Mission-driven focus on disaster resilience and optimizing resources for vulnerable communities.
• Must meet legal work authorization and complete background checks.

Responsibilities

• Standardize and optimize processes to reduce waste and improve quality in disaster recovery operations.
• Lead Kaizen events, Gemba walks, and problem-solving workshops; guide cross-functional teams.
• Track KPIs, report progress to leadership, and ensure improvements are sustained and compliant.
• Coach staff on Lean tools and standardized work to drive adoption across daily operations.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and manage project-related expenses within approved parameters.

Skills

Lean principles

Six Sigma

Value stream mapping

KPI development

Change leadership

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in operations, construction management, business, or related field

Job description

Strongward seeks a Continuous Improvement Manager to embed Toyota Production System and Lean into disaster recovery, housing construction, and client services. The role improves quality, reduces waste, and shortens the time from disaster to recovery.

The manager leads improvement initiatives, coaches staff on practical problem solving, and partners with cross‑functional teams to achieve operational excellence aligned with Strongward’s mission.