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Director Lean Manufacturing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Red Cat Holdings

Director of Manufacturing

Torrance, CA · On-site

$165 - $205/hr

The Director of Manufacturing partners closely with Engineering, Logistics, Supply Chain, Quality ... Champion Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the ...

Teledyne

Manufacturing Manager

Newark, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

This position leads a team of approximately 12-15 direct reports and is accountable for ensuring ... Lead Lean Manufacturing initiatives focused on waste reduction, process efficiency, and throughput ...

Mason

Manufacturing Manager

Sylmar, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

This person will direct activities through subordinate managers or supervisors to meet production ... Lead initiatives for continuous improvement and lean manufacturing practices, fostering an ...

Novanta

Director of Manufacturing Operations

Irvine, CA · On-site

$178K - $240K/yr

The Director drives continuous improvement through Lean principles, robust planning and capacity ... Lead endtoend manufacturing operations for the Irvine site, including assembly, machine shop, clean ...

Belcan

Manufacturing Engineer

Cypress, CA · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

... Type: full time, direct job with benefits # industrialization #aerospacejobs ... Participate in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives. * Support capacity ...

BY Recruiting

Director of Operations

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

Director of Operations 📍 Simi Valley, CA About the Role We are looking for a Director of ... You'll build a high-performing, accountable team and apply Lean Manufacturing principles to improve ...

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Director Lean Manufacturing information

See California salary details

$68.6K

$140K

$206.8K

How much do director lean manufacturing jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for director lean manufacturing in California is $140,014.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,000.00 and $164,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director lean manufacturing do?

A Director of Lean Manufacturing leads initiatives to optimize production processes, reduce waste, and improve efficiency within a manufacturing organization. They are responsible for implementing Lean principles and methodologies, such as Kaizen, 5S, and value stream mapping, across the company. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, mentoring staff, and driving a culture of continuous improvement to achieve operational excellence. Additionally, the Director monitors key performance indicators and ensures that Lean strategies align with business objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director lean manufacturing?

To thrive as a Director of Lean Manufacturing, you need deep expertise in lean methodologies, process improvement, and a background in engineering or manufacturing, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with tools like Six Sigma, value stream mapping, and ERP/MES systems, along with Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or similar certifications, is highly valued. Strong leadership, change management abilities, and effective communication help drive organizational buy-in and continuous improvement. These skills are critical for achieving operational excellence, reducing waste, and fostering a culture of efficiency throughout the organization.

How does a director lean manufacturing typically collaborate with other departments to drive continuous improvement initiatives?

A Director of Lean Manufacturing works closely with cross-functional teams such as engineering, production, quality, and supply chain to identify inefficiencies and implement process improvements. They often facilitate workshops, lead kaizen events, and provide training to ensure all departments are aligned with lean principles. Effective communication and strong leadership skills are essential, as the Director must build consensus and foster a culture of continuous improvement across the organization. Collaboration with other department heads is also key to integrating lean strategies into broader business objectives.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lean Manufacturing jobs in California?

The most popular types of Lean Manufacturing jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Director Lean Manufacturing jobs in California?

For Director Lean Manufacturing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Director Lean Manufacturing jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Director Lean Manufacturing jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Director Lean Manufacturing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Director Lean Manufacturing job openings:

Director Lean Manufacturing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Lean Manufacturing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,014 per year, or $67.3 per hour.

Program Manager, Lean Manufacturing

Kelly Services

Hayward, CA

$108K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New

Key responsibilities

  • Identify inefficiencies, map current vs. future states, analyze variability/waste, and drive targeted corrective actions.

  • Deploy, audit, and sustain Zero Production System (ZPS) practices across various manufacturing teams.

  • Lead workshops and train shop floor and leadership teams on operational standards, problem solving, and key metrics.

Job description

Program Manager, Lean Manufacturing
??????• Location: 100% on-site in Hayward, CA 94545
??????• Work Schedule: Mon-Fri /40hrs weekly
• Pay rate: 62$ per hour
• Contract: W2 under staffing supplier; with a 6-month duration (temporary only, possible extension according to performance)
 Role Overview

Drive operational excellence and continuous improvement across factory operations. You will partner with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, analyze operational data, eliminate waste, and embed Client's Production System principles on the floor.
 

Qualifications

  • Experience: 4–6 years in manufacturing, logistics, or supply chain (OEM environment strongly preferred).

  • Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s in Engineering or a related technical field.

  • Skills & Certifications: Proven cross-functional leadership; Project Management, Lean, or Six Sigma (Green Belt+) certified.

  • Bonus Points: Hands-on experience with ERP/MES systems (SAP) or analytics tools (SQL, Smartsheet, Databricks, Looker).

 Key Responsibilities

  • Process Optimization: Identify inefficiencies, map current vs. future states, analyze variability/waste, and drive targeted corrective actions.

  • Continuous Improvement & ZPS: Deploy, audit, and sustain ZPS practices across General Assembly, Execution, Quality, and Logistics teams.

  • Coaching & Mentorship: Lead workshops and train shop floor and leadership teams on 5S, standard work, root-cause problem solving, and key operational metrics.

  • Standardization: Define and document operational standards that build long-term manufacturing capability and accountability.


 
As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Please note: The following benefits reflect Kelly's general offerings. Eligibility may vary by assignment, location, and job type. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

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