LEAN Specialist

Applied Aerospace & Defense; Newington (CT); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Aerospace & Defense, a premier provider of advanced design, engineering, and production for space and defense programs, seeks a Lean Specialist in Newington, CT. You will lead cross-functional teams to identify waste, drive Kaizen events, and implement 5S, VSM, and SOP standardization across operations.

You will coach staff, analyze data with Excel, Minitab, and Visio, and track KPI improvements while sustaining a culture of continuous improvement on the shop floor.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field and 3-5+ years in Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional Lean Six Sigma projects and Kaizen events to streamline operations and reduce defects.
• Conduct Value Stream Mapping to analyze current state, identify inefficiencies, and map future state.
• Provide coaching and training on Lean tools and standard work to embed a continuous improvement mindset.
• Utilize data-driven insights and statistical tools to measure KPI improvements and track savings.
• Implement and sustain 5S, Kanban, and SOPs to ensure consistent, efficient performance.
• Perform regular Gemba walks to identify abnormalities and opportunities for improvement.

Skills

Lean Expertise

Analytical Skills

Project Management

Leadership & Change Management

Communication

Facilitation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration

Operations Management

Tools

Excel

Minitab

Visio

Job description

About the Organization Applied Aerospace & Defense (Applied) is a premier provider of advanced design, engineering, and vertically integrated manufacturing solutions for leading and next-generation space and defense technology companies. Applied builds complex hardware for extreme operating environments and is focused on three core markets: Space and Launch Systems, Defense Aviation and Airborne Systems, and C5ISR and Precision Strike Systems. With decades of space and defense manufacturing heritage, Applied combines deep material science and IP-enabled process expertise with the ability to enable rapid prototyping, enhance new product development, and responsively scale production. Across its nationwide infrastructure of advanced manufacturing facilities, Applied continuously supports a balanced mix of next-generation technology and platform development, large scale production programs, and aftermarket sustainment for enduring platforms.

EOE Statement Applied Aerospace and Defense is an equal opportunity employer.

Description

The Lean Specialist will drive operational excellence by identifying, analyzing, and eliminating waste across business processes. This role involves leading cross-functional teams, implementing Lean methodologies (such as 5S, Kaizen, VSM), and fostering a culture of continuous improvement to enhance productivity, quality, and cost savings.

Key Responsibilities

• Process Improvement: Lead, facilitate, and support Lean Six Sigma projects and Kaizen events to streamline operations, reduce defects, and improve flow.
• Value Stream Mapping (VSM): Conduct detailed VSM to analyze current state, map future state, and identify inefficiencies (waste).
• Training & Coaching: Provide coaching and training to staff on Lean tools, principles, and standard work to embed a continuous improvement mindset.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: Utilize data-driven insights and statistical tools to measure KPI improvements, tracking savings and results for senior management.
• Standardization: Implement and sustain 5S, Kanban, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent, efficient performance.
• Gemba Walks: Perform regular Gemba walks to identify abnormalities, support employees on the shop floor, and identify improvement opportunities.

Key Skills & Qualifications

• Lean Expertise: Deep understanding of Lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies, Kaizen, and waste reduction techniques (8 Wastes).
• Analytical Skills: Strong ability to analyze complex data sets to identify trends, root causes, and solutions, with proficiency in tools like Excel, Minitab, or Visio.
• Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously from inception to completion.
• Leadership & Change Management: Exceptional ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive cultural change within an organization.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills to interact with diverse groups, including shop floor staff and executive leadership.
• Facilitation: Ability to lead workshops and brainstorming sessions effectively.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Experience: 3-5+ years of experience in Lean manufacturing, operational excellence, or continuous improvement roles.
• Certification: Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is highly desirable.

Desired Attributes

• Hands-on Approach: Proactive, "go-to-the-gemba" attitude.
• Problem-Solver: Detail-oriented, with a focus on resolving bottlenecks and improving quality.

Position Requirements

Shift First

Full-Time/Part-Time Full-Time

Location Applied Aerospace & Defense, Newington

Category Manufacturing

Req Number MAN-26-00024

Position LEAN Specialist

Close Date

Post Internal Days 0

Number of Openings 1

Exempt/Non-Exempt Exempt

Hiring Manager(s)

This position is currently accepting applications.