Lean Rapid Continuous Improvement; RCI Specialist

Position: Lean Rapid Continuous Improvement (RCI) Specialist
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 experience5–10+ 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 Solid Works experience.

Must have experience in steel manufacturing such as stamping, roll forming, 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…