Lean Engineer

Vesuvius; Kentucky; On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Vesuvius in Kentucky seeks a Lean / Process Engineer to lead continuous improvement initiatives at the manufacturing site. You will deploy lean methodologies to streamline operations, reduce waste, and drive safety, quality, productivity, and cost improvements.

Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, Maintenance and Operations to implement tools like A3, Kaizen, DMAIC, 5S and Value Stream Mapping, delivering training and sustaining improvements.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support lean transformation projects using structured problem-solving techniques (e.g., A3, Kaizen, DMAIC, PDCA).
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement through employee engagement, coaching, and collaboration across all levels of the organization.
• Identify and eliminate non-value-added activities using tools such as Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, and Root Cause Analysis.
• Partner with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, Operations) to align process improvements with business goals.
• Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) related to lean initiatives; ensure accountability for results.
• Develop and deliver lean training materials to build internal capability and support change management efforts.
• Drive Lean Initiatives on the shop floor
• Ensure all improvement activities align with safety standards, quality expectations, and compliance requirements.

Job description

Job Description:

The Lean / Process Engineer is key in leading continuous improvement initiatives across the Cleveland manufacturing site. This position is responsible for deploying lean methodologies to streamline operations, reduce waste, and optimize processes aligned with the company’s strategic objectives. As a change agent, this role will influence culture, foster total employee involvement, and drive sustainable safety, quality, productivity, and cost improvements.

Key Result Areas:

• Lead and support lean transformation projects using structured problem-solving techniques (e.g., A3, Kaizen, DMAIC, PDCA).
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement through employee engagement, coaching, and collaboration across all levels of the organization.
• Identify and eliminate non-value-added activities using tools such as Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, and Root Cause Analysis.
• Partner with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, Operations) to align process improvements with business goals.
• Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) related to lean initiatives; ensure accountability for results.
• Develop and deliver lean training materials to build internal capability and support change management efforts.
• Drive Lean Initiatives on the shop floor
• Ensure all improvement activities align with safety standards, quality expectations, and compliance requirements.