Continuous Improvement Engineer

Who we are:

AGSE is a recognized leader in the design and manufacture of aerospace ground support equipment, serving the world’s top aerospace organizations. We are in the midst of a cultural transformation, moving from tribal knowledge and manual reactive processes to a data‑driven, standardized, and continuously improving operation. This is your chance to join a team that is committed to real change, not just “checking the box” on Lean.

You will be an active partner in driving our transformation—building systems, not just projects. Your focus will be on embedding continuous improvement as a mindset at every level, not just as a set of tools. Your day‑to‑day will combine process analysis, hands‑on problem solving, cross‑functional coaching, and project execution, with a direct line to senior leadership.

You won’t just analyze; you’ll implement, teach, and sustain.

• Lead Improvement Projects: Identify, plan, and execute high‑impact Lean, Six Sigma, and digital transformation projects focused on operational bottlenecks (quality escapes, long prep times, inefficient assembly, etc.).
• Drive Standardization: Document tribal knowledge into robust SOPs and work instructions; pilot and roll out digital work instruction tools and visual management boards.
• Coach & Train: Deliver hands‑on Lean/CI training for operators, leads, and supervisors, focusing on practical skills (problem solving, process mapping, visual management, mistake‑proofing, etc.).
• Data‑Driven Action: Design meaningful KPIs, collect and analyze shopfloor data (scrap, rework, cycle times, downtime, OTD, etc.), and implement root cause analysis and countermeasures.
• Champion Digital Tools: Work with AI, automation, and analytics tools (Power Automate, ERP integrations, Excel, Power BI) to move the factory toward a paperless, digitally enabled environment.
• Facilitate Change: Run kaizen events, lead daily/weekly Gemba walks, facilitate feedback loops, and support the development of a true continuous improvement culture.
• Collaborate Across Functions: Partner with Quality, Engineering, Production, and Supply Chain to drive cross‑functional initiatives and standardize processes.
• Tackle Real Problems: Address recurring issues like final inspection escapes, part marking accuracy, FOD/scratches, material flow, and inefficiencies in manual‑heavy processes.
• Measure and Report Savings: Continuous improvement impacts in terms of dollars saved, hours reduced, and risk mitigated; report out to leadership and stakeholders.

Santa Fe Springs, CA. 100% Onsite work. No remote nor hybrid availability for this role.

• 3+ years of hands‑on experience in a Lean/Continuous Improvement, manufacturing, or operations engineering role.
• Strong working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing (5S, Value Stream Mapping, SMED, Poka‑Yoke, Visual Management), Six Sigma (DMAIC, root cause analysis), and process mapping.
• Track record of driving real improvements, measurable cost savings, cycle time reductions, quality improvements.
• Experience creating and implementing Standard Work, SOPs, and operator‑level training.
• Familiarity or experience with digital tools for shop floor (Power BI, Excel, Power Automate, digital checklists, etc.).
• Excellent communication, coaching, and facilitation skills; able to work at all levels from shop floor to leadership.
• Highly self‑motivated, able to work with minimal supervision, and thrives in a dynamic, hands‑on environment.
• Certification in Lean, Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt), or equivalent experience is highly preferred
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• Experience supporting or leading ERP transitions (Epicor, Global Shop, etc.).
• Exposure to AI, automation, or advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Background in aerospace, heavy fabrication, or complex assembly environments.
• Experience implementing digital work instruction systems or MES.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001/AS9100 QMS requirements.

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering or related technical field.
• Manufacturing engineering experience a must.
• Six Sigma Black Belt, Lean, Quality, or other related certification preferred.
• Onsite role. No hybrid nor…