Lean Specialist

Responsible for supporting and leading Lean initiatives within the company. Organizes associates in continuous improvement initiatives to eliminate waste in all office, factory and support functions. Measures and reports progress on an on-going basis of continuous improvement activities. Leads Kaizen events and contributes to improvement activities.

Scope/ Supervision and Interaction:

Position reports to the Continuous Improvement Manager. Ensures Lean education and implementation in all functions within the company to insure sustainability.

Essential Functions:

· Leads and guides Lean initiatives within the Plant. Works Plant level management on Lean process projects using lean tools and metrics. Assists in the development of a Lean Strategy to be implemented plant wide.
· The Lean Practitioner will coordinate individual initiatives throughout the company and trains associates how to continually eliminate waste.
· Assists support function are implementing the Lean principles, techniques, and methodologies according to TPS methodologies. Technologies and methodologies including Value Steam Mapping, Cellular Manufacturing, Kanban Pull Systems, Quick Changeover, design for lean, one-piece flow, inventory reduction, SMED, Kaizen events, TPS, etc.
· Makes implementation and results a top priority and develop and regulate the Lean Road Map. Empowers every employee in the Plant through positive reinforcement of Lean. "Make Lean the way we do things at IFab."
· Provides support in change management and optimization in implementing the Lean Road Map. Serves as a resource for successful and sustained lean implementation.
· Provides technical and operational recommendations in meeting material control, product quality and customer service goals. Supports coaching and teaching of lean principles.
· Position must understand the current culture by reviewing existing documentation of policies and procedures. Position is responsible for working with all operating disciplines by using value stream management to develop a master plan of meeting the goals of Lean.

Qualifications:

· Two-year degree or equivalent.
· One year (minimum) of manufacturing technical experience demonstrating a self-starting and hands-on quality.
· Ability to quickly learn Lean principles such as Value Stream Transformation (Mapping), Just-in-Time, Demand Flow, Single Piece Flow, Five S's, Visual Management, TPS, etc.
· Has experience in manufacturing, engineering, quality and other support areas.
· Fundimental understanding of financial measurements and goals and has good analytical skills.
· Effective communication skills to lead and support empowered employees in a team environment.
·Strong presentation and facilitation skills to effectively present the division's performance, initiatives, and improvement opportunities to cross-functional teams and leadership.