Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, or equivalent Lean experience.
5-10+ years in Lean manufacturing or operations in a manufacturing setting.
Demonstrated success in leading Kaizen events and implementing Lean methodologies.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to convert data into actionable improvements.
Experience in high-volume steel manufacturing environments.
Proficient in AutoCAD and SolidWorks.
Responsibilities
Lead rapid continuous improvement initiatives focusing on productivity and cost savings.
Identify inefficiencies and prioritize improvements in production workflows.
Apply Lean methodologies to achieve measurable results.
Facilitate Rapid Continuous Improvement workshops at the manufacturing site.
Train production management on Lean principles through interactive events.
Analyze production data and KPIs to drive improvement actions.
Develop solutions to optimize equipment utilization and reduce scrap.
Benefits
Promote a culture of accountability and problem-solving.
Opportunity for hands-on involvement in manufacturing operations.
Engagement with cross-functional teams for aligned initiatives.
Full Job Description
Job Description:
Position Overview
The Lean Rapid Continuous Improvement Specialist is a hands-on, individual contributor responsible for driving continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations. This role partners closely with production, engineering, supply chain, and site leadership to identify inefficiencies, eliminate waste, and improve overall performance in the production of steel components and solar tracker systems.
The Lean Engineer II serves as a subject matter expert in Lean methodologies, leading rapid improvement efforts that directly impact safety, quality, delivery, and cost. This role operates with a high level of independence and influence, without primary responsibility for formal people management.
Key Responsibilities
Continuous Improvement & Lean Execution
Lead rapid continuous improvement (RCI) initiatives focused on productivity, throughput, waste reduction, and cost savings
Identify and prioritize improvement opportunities across steel fabrication, stamping, assembly, and production workflows
Apply Lean methodologies (Kaizen, 5S, 3P, Value Stream Mapping, DFM, SMED, TPM, standard work) to drive measurable results.
Facilitate Rapid Continuous Improvement events and rapid improvement workshops across the manufacturing site (12-24 per year minimum).
Train all production management and production personnel on lean principles using interactive training events.
Operational Optimization
Analyze production data, KPIs, and process performance to identify inefficiencies and drive improvement actions.
Develop new counterbalancing KPIs to link production, scrap, quality, safety, and attendance. Then work with IT to implement an incentive system that drive universal performance of these KPIs.
Develop and implement solutions to reduce scrap, improve cycle times, and optimize equipment utilization
Support flow optimization, line balancing, and layout improvements within production environments
Partner with operations to improve material flow and reduce bottlenecks across the value stream
Value Stream & Process Design
Conduct value stream mapping to identify current state gaps and design future state workflows
Establish and maintain standard work and process documentation to ensure repeatability and consistency
Support new product introductions and production scaling from a process optimization standpoint
Cross-Functional Influence
Partner with Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality, and Engineering teams to drive aligned improvement initiatives
Influence operational decision-making through data-driven insights and continuous improvement practices
Serve as a key liaison between leadership and production teams on improvement priorities
Training & Culture Development
Train and coach supervisors, operators, and site leaders on Lean principles and continuous improvement tools
Promote a culture of accountability, problem-solving, and continuous improvement across the site
Support development of daily management systems and visual management tools
Performance Measurement & Reporting
Define, track, and report KPIs related to operational efficiency, waste reduction, and productivity
Monitor progress of improvement initiatives and ensure sustainability of results
Provide regular updates to site leadership on performance and impact
Qualifications
Required
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Manufacturing, or related field or equivalent Lean experience
5-10+ years of experience in Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or operations within a manufacturing environment
Proven experience leading Kaizen events and implementing Lean methodologies
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate data into actionable improvements
Experience working in hands-on steel manufacturing environments (steel, fabrication, high-volume production preferred)
AutoCAD and SolidWorks experience.
Must have experience in steel manufacturing such as stamping, rollforming, tube mills, slitting, or steel mills.
Preferred
Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred)
Experience in steel fabrication, stamping, or solar / renewable manufacturing environments
Experience with ERP systems and production data analytics
Strong facilitation and influence skills across cross-functional teams
Machine design experience.
Stamping experience.
Working Conditions
Primarily based on the manufacturing floor with direct engagement in production processes
Requires hands-on involvement in operations, equipment, and workflow optimization
May require extended hours or off-shift support during major improvement events
Summary
The Lean / RCI Specialist plays a critical role in driving operational excellence across manufacturing operations. This position is ideal for a highly motivated, hands-on professional who thrives in dynamic production environments and is passionate about improving performance through Lean principles and continuous improvement.
About Array Technologies
Array Technologies is a leading provider of solar tracking systems for utility-scale solar energy projects. The company was founded in 1989 and is headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Array Technologies' solar tracking systems use advanced technology to increase the efficiency of solar energy production, resulting in lower costs and higher energy yields. The company has a strong focus on innovation and has developed several patented technologies that are used in its solar tracking systems. Array Technologies has a global presence and has installed solar tracking systems in over 30 countries around the world.
