Job Description: IE/KAIZEN Manager
Job Type:
Full-Time
Reports to:
Lean/Kaizen Director
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Industrial Engineering Manager to lead our Industrial Engineering team. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for driving operational efficiency, optimizing processes, and reducing costs across our facilities. You will leverage your expertise in IE methodologies to analyze current systems, design improved workflows, and implement solutions that enhance productivity, quality, and safety. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a proven track record of managing projects and leading a team of engineers to achieve tangible business results.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management:
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Industrial Engineers and Technicians.
- Assign projects, set clear performance goals, and conduct regular performance reviews.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and accountability within the team.
Process Improvement & Optimization:
- Identify, analyze, and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and lower operational costs.
- Utilize Industrial Engineering techniques such as time and motion studies, value stream mapping, line balancing, and workflow analysis.
- Design and optimize facility layouts, material handling systems, and production lines to improve material flow and space utilization.
Data Analysis & Performance Management:
- Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor operational performance.
- Use data analytics and statistical tools to identify trends, root causes of inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
- Establish labor standards and capacity models to support accurate planning and budgeting.
Project Management:
- Manage capital projects from conception to completion, including justification, budgeting, scheduling, and implementation.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Operations, Quality, Safety, Maintenance, IT) to ensure project success and alignment with business objectives.
- Ensure all engineering projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.
Standards & System Implementation:
- Develop and standardize work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and best practices.
- Lead or support the implementation of new technologies, automation, and ERP/WMS systems.
Safety & Compliance:
- Champion a safe working environment by ensuring all process changes and layouts adhere to company and OSHA safety standards.
- Integrate ergonomic principles into workstation and process design.
Qualifications & Experience
Required:
- Bachelor's degree in industrial engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
- 10+ years of progressive experience in Industrial Engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or managerial role.
- Proven experience in a manufacturing, distribution, or logistics environment.
- Strong proficiency in IE tools and methodologies (e.g., Time Studies, Capacity Modeling, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, 5S).
- Demonstrated experience with project management and capital project justification.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, MS Office Suite (especially Excel), and data analysis software.
Preferred:
- Professional Engineer (PE) license or Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE).
- Six Sigma Black Belt or Lean Master certification.
- Experience with simulation software (e.g., Arena, FlexSim) and advanced ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
Key Competencies & Skills
- Strategic Leadership:
Ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a high-performing team. - Analytical & Problem-Solving:
Strong data-driven mindset with excellent root cause analysis skills. - Communication:
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex data to all levels of the organization. - Influence & Collaboration:
Skilled at building relationships and driving change through influence in a cross-functional setting. - Results-Oriented:
A focus on achieving and measuring concrete operational and financial outcomes.