Project Engineer, Lean Manufacturing ​/ Six Sigma

Position # P00379

Manager of Client Services

Arkansas Manufacturing Solutions (AMS) is seeking a hands‑on manufacturing improvement leader to help Arkansas manufacturers improve operations, strengthen workforce effectiveness, and increase competitiveness. The Manager of Client Services works directly with manufacturers across the state to lead lean manufacturing and continuous improvement efforts, facilitate operational problem solving, and support practical implementation of improvement initiatives. This role is heavily focused on plant‑floor engagement and execution while also helping manufacturers evaluate and adopt appropriate technology and automation solutions.

The ideal candidate combines operational credibility, leadership coaching, project management, and relationship‑building skills with a passion for helping manufacturers achieve measurable results.

This employer participates in E-Verify.

• Assess manufacturing operations to identify opportunities related to productivity, quality, flow, workforce engagement, and operational performance.
• Lead and facilitate lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives including:
• 5S and visual management
• Root cause problem solving
• Toyota Kata and leader standard work
• Coach plant leadership and frontline teams in sustaining continuous improvement practices.
• Deliver practical, implementation‑focused support directly on the plant floor.

• Build trusted relationships with manufacturing clients across Arkansas.
• Conduct assessments and develop improvement plans aligned with client goals.
• Develop project scopes, proposals, timelines, and deliverables.
• Manage multiple client projects and maintain accurate project reporting.
• Coordinate third‑party resources and subject‑matter experts when appropriate.

• Help manufacturers identify practical opportunities related to automation, smart manufacturing, and operational technology.
• Support technology adoption that complements lean systems and workforce effectiveness.
• Maintain awareness of emerging manufacturing technologies and industry trends.

• Support AMS outreach and business development activities.
• Represent AMS at industry meetings, conferences, and manufacturing events.
• Participate in internal collaboration, staff development, and continuous improvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Strong practical experience in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement implementation.
• Ability to lead operational improvement efforts in real manufacturing environments.
• Strong facilitation, coaching, and relationship‑building skills.
• Ability to engage effectively with individuals at all organizational levels, from executives to frontline team members.
• Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple client engagements.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing technologies, automation systems, or smart manufacturing concepts.
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with practical implementation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, virtual collaboration tools, CRM systems, and data reporting platforms.

• Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Additional hours as requested and/or needed.
• Regular and reliable attendance.

• Frequent travel to manufacturing facilities throughout Arkansas.
• Significant time spent in active manufacturing environments.
• Occasional overnight travel for conferences, client engagements, and professional development.
• Standard work hours are Monday through Friday, with additional hours as needed based on client and project demands.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, manufacturing, business, operations management, or a related field.
• Minimum of eight (8) years of experience in manufacturing operations, operational leadership, continuous improvement, engineering, plant leadership, or manufacturing consulting.
• Demonstrated experience leading lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives.
• Experience working directly in manufacturing environments.

• Experience in plant management, operations leadership, or multi‑site manufacturing support.
• Lean certification, Six Sigma certification, Toyota Kata experience, or related continuous improvement credentials.
• Experience facilitating kaizen events and leadership development activities.
• Familiarity with automation, Industry 4.0, smart manufacturing, or manufacturing technology integration.
• Experience in consulting, client relationship management, or project‑based service delivery.
• PMP or other project management certification is a plus.