Lean Manufacturing Engineer | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $74,000 - $113,000 depending on experience

Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for excelling in lean manufacturing engineer? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is dedicated to building meaningful connections and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Grand Rapids seeking experienced Lean Manufacturing Engineers to drive results.

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 collaborating with manufacturing firms in Grand Rapids that are seeking skilled Lean Manufacturing Engineers. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and are looking for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping).
• Analyze manufacturing processes to identify waste, bottlenecks, and opportunities for efficiency gains.
• Implement and sustain Lean tools and principles across production lines and support functions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and execute improvement projects.
• Train and mentor employees on Lean concepts and problem-solving techniques.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the effectiveness of Lean initiatives.
• Develop and standardize work procedures to ensure consistent quality and productivity.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience implementing Lean methodologies in a manufacturing environment
• Proven ability to lead and facilitate Kaizen events and continuous improvement projects
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools
• Demonstrated experience in value stream mapping and process optimization
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred)

Bonus Qualifications

• Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
• Experience with advanced simulation software (e.g., Arena, FlexSim).
• Familiarity with Industry 4.0 technologies (e.g., IoT, AI, robotics).
• PMP or other project management certification.
• Bilingual proficiency, especially in languages relevant to global manufacturing operations.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Lean Manufacturing Engineer, Process Improvement Engineer, Continuous Improvement Engineer, Manufacturing Excellence Engineer, Lean Six Sigma Engineer, Industrial Engineer, Production Engineer, Operations Engineer, Value Stream Manager, Kaizen Engineer

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.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out 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.