Lean Manufacturing Engineer | Lead Kaizen & Value Stream

The Pivot Group Careers; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 72,000 - 111,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Careers is seeking a Lean Manufacturing Engineer in Kalamazoo, MI. The role focuses on applying lean principles to reduce downtime and improve process flow on the shop floor.

You will analyze data, lead Kaizen events, and collaborate with hourly production teams to drive continuous improvement. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field and experience with value stream mapping, 5S, and standard work.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience applying lean tools in a manufacturing setting.
• Knowledge of value stream mapping, kaizen, and standard work.
• Strong data analysis and problem solving skills.
• Ability to work with hourly production teams on the floor.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills.
• Bachelor degree in engineering or a related technical field.
• Experience with time studies and line balancing.
• Familiarity with ERP or MES.

Responsibilities

• Analyze root causes of downtime and quality defects.
• Lead continuous improvement projects on the production floor.
• Map value streams and identify waste in current processes.
• Run kaizen events with production and maintenance teams.
• Develop and update standard work instructions.
• Track key metrics such as cycle time, scrap, and on-time delivery.
• Train operators and supervisors on lean tools and methods.
• Support 5S and visual management across work areas.

Skills

Data analysis

Problem solving

Communication

Training operators

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Tools

Minitab

ERP/MES

Excel

Job description

The Pivot Group Careers is seeking a Lean Manufacturing Engineer in Kalamazoo, MI. The role focuses on applying lean principles to reduce downtime and improve process flow on the shop floor.

You will analyze data, lead Kaizen events, and collaborate with hourly production teams to drive continuous improvement. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field and experience with value stream mapping, 5S, and standard work.