Value Stream Manager - Paw Paw Area

the-pivot-group-careers; Paw Paw (MI); On-site; USD 109,000 - 158,000; Full time

Job summary

The Pivot Group Network in Paw Paw, MI is assisting local manufacturers by connecting experienced value stream leaders with current openings. The role targets a Value Stream Manager responsible for driving continuous improvement, safety, quality, delivery, and cost within the value stream.

We seek a candidate with a Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, 7+ years in manufacturing operations including 3+ in leadership, and strong lean, Kaizen, Kanban, and data-driven decision making

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 7+ years of manufacturing operations experience, with 3+ in a leadership role.
• Lean manufacturing principles experience: Kaizen, Kanban, 5S, VSM.
• Lead cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving with data-driven mindset.

Responsibilities

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focusing on safety, quality, delivery and cost.
• Develop and execute the value stream's strategic plan aligned to company objectives.
• Lead and mentor cross-functional teams, fostering accountability and problem solving.
• Monitor KPIs and implement corrective actions to meet targets.
• Optimize material flow and inventory to minimize waste and maximize efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering, supply chain and sales to improve processes.
• Manage the value stream budget and resource allocation.

Skills

Leadership

Data-driven decisions

Cross-functional

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field

Tools

Kaizen

Kanban

5S

Value Stream Mapping

Job description

Value Stream Manager | Paw Paw, MI

Salary Range: $109,000 - $158,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled professional with a passion for excelling in value stream manager? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Paw Paw seeking experienced Value Stream Managers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are working with companies in Paw Paw that are adding Value Stream Managers to their teams. These organizations value quality over speed in hiring. By connecting with us, you position yourself for opportunities that align with what you're looking for.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the assigned value stream, focusing on safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Develop and execute the value stream's strategic plan, aligning with overall company objectives and customer demand.
• Lead and mentor cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of accountability, problem-solving, and employee engagement.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to ensure targets are met or exceeded.
• Optimize material flow and inventory levels throughout the value stream to minimize waste and maximize efficiency.
• Collaborate with engineering, supply chain, and sales to introduce new products and improve existing processes.
• Manage the value stream's budget and resource allocation, ensuring efficient utilization and cost control.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related technical field.
• 7+ years of experience in manufacturing operations, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven expertise in Lean manufacturing principles and their practical application (e.g., Kaizen, Kanban, 5S, Value Stream Mapping).
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on data-driven decision making.

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification
• Experience with simulation software or process modeling tools
• Project management certification (e.g., PMP)
• Strong data analytics skills, including experience with BI tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)

Job Titles That Should Apply

Value Stream Director, Lean Manager, Process Improvement Manager, Operations Excellence Manager, Business Process Manager, Continuous Improvement Manager, Agile Coach, Senior Process Engineer, Transformation Lead, Flow Manager

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.