How much do director lean jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for director lean in Kentucky is $115,660.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,927.00 and $145,589.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a director lean?

A Director of Lean is responsible for leading process improvement initiatives using Lean methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and drive continuous improvement within an organization. They collaborate with leadership and cross-functional teams to implement Lean principles, identify opportunities for optimization, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. This role often involves training employees, analyzing workflows, and ensuring that Lean strategies align with business objectives.

What are the primary responsibilities and challenges typically faced by a director lean?

A Director Lean is primarily responsible for leading company-wide initiatives focused on process optimization, waste reduction, and productivity improvement using Lean methodologies. This role involves collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, providing leadership for Lean project teams, and training employees at all levels on Lean practices. Common challenges include overcoming resistance to change, ensuring consistent buy-in across departments, and sustaining long-term improvement results. Success in this position requires both strategic vision and hands-on problem-solving to deliver measurable value and support an ongoing culture of continuous improvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the director lean position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Lean, you need an in-depth understanding of Lean principles, process improvement methodologies, and strong leadership experience, often backed by a degree in engineering, operations, or business. Familiarity with Six Sigma, Kaizen, value stream mapping, and relevant certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Black Belt are highly valuable. Outstanding communication, change management skills, and the ability to influence at all organizational levels enable effective implementation of Lean strategies. These capabilities are crucial for driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.

$77k-$197k Director Lean Jobs Kentucky (NOW HIRING) Sep 26

Begell House Inc.

Healthcare Systems Engineering Director | Lean Six Sigma (Northern)

Eastern, KY · On-site

The position emphasizes Lean/Six Sigma methods, patient safety projects, and education across the organization, with duties reflecting MACCC standards for this associate director role. #J-18808 ...

New

Begell House Inc.

Healthcare Systems Engineering Director | Lean Six Sigma (Northern)

Eastern, KY · On-site

The position emphasizes Lean/Six Sigma methods, patient safety projects, and education across the organization, with duties reflecting MACCC standards for this associate director role. #J-18808 ...

New

RXinsider LTD.

$90 - $130/hr

The Lean Manager will drive successful implementation of improvement projects across the sites ... Guide, coach, direct, and develop direct reports. * Drives targeted, sustainable improvement by ...

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RXinsider LTD.

$90 - $130/hr

The Lean Manager will drive successful implementation of improvement projects across the sites ... Guide, coach, direct, and develop direct reports. * Drives targeted, sustainable improvement by ...

New

Neara

$120 - $180/hr

Consulting or advisory experience is valuable but does not substitute for direct manufacturing ... The Lean Operations Consultant is hired for their manufacturing credibility, not their software ...

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Neara

$120 - $180/hr

Consulting or advisory experience is valuable but does not substitute for direct manufacturing ... The Lean Operations Consultant is hired for their manufacturing credibility, not their software ...

New