Lean​/Process Engineer

Lean/Process Engineer at Vesuvius

Location: Cleveland, Ohio

Department: Operations

Reports To: Plant Manager

The Lean / Process Engineer plays a key role in leading continuous improvement initiatives across the Cleveland manufacturing site. This position is responsible for deploying lean methodologies to streamline operations, reduce waste, and optimize processes aligned with the company’s strategic objectives. As a change agent, this role will influence culture, foster total employee involvement, and drive sustainable improvements in safety, quality, productivity, and cost.

• Lead and support lean transformation projects using structured problem-solving techniques (e.g., A3, Kaizen, DMAIC, PDCA).
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement through employee engagement, coaching, and collaboration across all levels of the organization.
• Identify and eliminate non-value-added activities using tools such as Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, and Root Cause Analysis.
• Partner with cross-functional teams (Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, Operations) to align process improvements with business goals.
• Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) related to lean initiatives; ensure accountability for results.
• Develop and deliver lean training materials to build internal capability and support change management efforts.
• Ensure all improvement activities align with safety standards, quality expectations, and compliance requirements.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or a related technical field.
• Lean certification or proven experience with a recognized lean operating system (e.g., Toyota Production System, Danaher Business System).

• Minimum 5 years of experience applying lean principles in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional process improvement initiatives.

• Strong communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage teams at all organizational levels.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis tools.
• Self-starter with a hands‑on, results-driven approach.
• Comfortable leading training sessions and presenting to diverse audiences.
• Strong analytical mindset with attention to detail and root‑cause thinking.
• Committed to a safe work environment and continuous personal development.

This role requires a high degree of critical thinking and structured problem-solving to address complex process challenges. The ability to drive sustainable change through influence, data, and collaboration is essential.

This position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to lead impactful projects that directly shape operational excellence. You will join a company that values innovation, integrity, and employee development.

Vesuvius is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Vesuvius is a global leader in molten metal flow engineering and technology, primarily serving the global steel and foundry industries. We develop innovative solutions that enable our customers to increase their efficiency and productivity, enhance quality, improve safety and reduce their costs and their environmental impact. Our history spans more than 100 years, we are on six continents with more than 11,000 employees.

We value diversity. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We aim to deliver sustainable, profitable growth to provide our shareholders with a superior return on their investment, while providing our employees with a safe workplace where they are recognized, developed and properly rewarded.