Lean Master: Lead Kaizen & Operational Excellence

Donaldson Company; Cresco (IA); Hybrid; USD 112,000 - 154,000; Full time

Job summary

Donaldson Company is seeking a Lean Master to lead the implementation of the Lean strategy across multiple plants, working with plant managers to deliver training, establish lean culture, and set a lean structure within operations.

The role drives significant business improvements using Lean and Six Sigma to achieve long-term goals and develops a robust continuous improvement program across the OPS Excellence team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Quality, or Engineering.
• Lean or Six Sigma certification.
• 10+ years of experience in manufacturing environment.
• A minimum of 3 years working exclusively with Lean (Six Sigma).
• 70% travel required.

Responsibilities

• Lead lean transformations across multiple sites, including value stream mapping and standard work.
• Plan and run Kaizen events, manage financial impacts, and report outcomes.
• Identify and deliver business improvement projects with measurable savings and safety gains.
• Serve as Lean subject matter expert and coach across sites.
• Develop and update training materials aligned with lean methodologies.

Skills

Lean Six Sigma

Manufacturing experience

Project leadership

Travel 70%

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business, Quality, or Engineering

Job description

Donaldson Company is seeking a Lean Master to lead the implementation of the Lean strategy across multiple plants, working with plant managers to deliver training, establish lean culture, and set a lean structure within operations.

The role drives significant business improvements using Lean and Six Sigma to achieve long-term goals and develops a robust continuous improvement program across the OPS Excellence team.