Lean Manufacturing Engineer (SLMS) — Hands-on Leader

Summit Polymers; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Summit Polymers in Kalamazoo, MI is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer (Lean) to lead the SLMS rollout on the plant floor, driving continuous improvement and waste reduction. This hands-on role requires strong analytical skills and the ability to coach operators and managers through kaizen events; familiarity with Jidoka, JIT and standardized work is beneficial.

You will collaborate with the General Manager and cross-functional teams to optimize layouts, manage projects, and ensure safe, efficient

Qualifications

• Engineering degree or 3 years in a manufacturing environment required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities; data-driven decisions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication; ability to coach across levels.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel for data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation of SLMS across all areas of the facility.
• Conduct routine SLMS audits and lead corresponding kaizen activities.
• Analyze manufacturing methods for process improvement, work balance and cost reduction.
• Teach SLMS concepts on the shop floor and in classrooms to all plant employees.
• Lead and manage projects with independent decision-making on the shop floor.
• Develop and maintain plant floor layouts.
• Occasional travel to other SPI plants.
• Other duties as required by General Manager.
• Understand SLMS theory and application; waste elimination; diverse process experiences.
• Coach others to learn SLMS by doing; combine classroom and shop floor learning.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Project management

Problem solving

Education

Engineering degree or related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Summit Polymers in Kalamazoo, MI is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer (Lean) to lead the SLMS rollout on the plant floor, driving continuous improvement and waste reduction. This hands-on role requires strong analytical skills and the ability to coach operators and managers through kaizen events; familiarity with Jidoka, JIT and standardized work is beneficial.

You will collaborate with the General Manager and cross-functional teams to optimize layouts, manage projects, and ensure safe, efficient