Lean Process Improvement Technician

Dakota Bodies; Watertown (SD); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Dakota Bodies is seeking a hands-on Continuous Improvement (CI) / Lean Technician to drive process stability, waste reduction, and productivity across fabrication, assembly, and paint. You will partner with production, engineering, maintenance, and leadership to apply Lean tools and SQDC improvements on the shop floor.

The role emphasizes frontline Gemba engagement, time studies, Kaizen events, and developing standard work and visual management.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; associate degree or technical training preferred in Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, or Engineering Technology.
• 1-3+ years experience in manufacturing, production, or industrial environment.
• Basic understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, Standard Work).
• Proficiency with Excel and basic data tracking tools.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work on the production floor.

Responsibilities

• Support Lean manufacturing principles including 5S, Standard Work, Kaizen, and Visual Management.
• Identify waste in production processes (motion, waiting, defects, overproduction, transport, inventory, overprocessing).
• Participate in and facilitate Kaizen events and rapid improvement activities.
• Assist in developing and maintaining Lean daily management systems.
• Conduct time studies, cycle time analysis, and line balancing activities.
• Support identification of bottlenecks and assist in improving throughput.
• Analyze production data to identify trends, losses, and improvement opportunities.
• Assist in validating takt time alignment and standard work adherence.
• Perform daily Gemba walks to observe processes and engage with operators and supervisors.
• Collaborate with production teams to solve real-time operational issues.
• Support implementation of corrective actions and ensure sustainment of improvements.
• Assist in developing and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Support creation of visual work instructions and process documentation.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing mindset

Problem solving

Data collection and analysis

Communication and teamwork

Time study / process observation

Shop floor engagement

Standard work development

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate degree or technical training preferred

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Basic data tracking tools

Job description

Dakota Bodies is seeking a hands-on Continuous Improvement (CI) / Lean Technician to drive process stability, waste reduction, and productivity across fabrication, assembly, and paint. You will partner with production, engineering, maintenance, and leadership to apply Lean tools and SQDC improvements on the shop floor.

The role emphasizes frontline Gemba engagement, time studies, Kaizen events, and developing standard work and visual management.