1

Lean Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Lead and manage assigned Lean Six Sigma/CPI projects from defining through control phases (DMAIC ... Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited ...

Lead and manage assigned Lean Six Sigma/CPI projects from defining through control phases (DMAIC ... Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited ...

Lead and manage assigned Lean Six Sigma/CPI projects from defining through control phases (DMAIC ... Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited ...

Lead and manage assigned Lean Six Sigma/CPI projects from defining through control phases (DMAIC ... Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited ...

Lead and manage assigned Lean Six Sigma/CPI projects from defining through control phases (DMAIC ... Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited ...

Lead and manage assigned Lean Six Sigma/CPI projects from defining through control phases (DMAIC ... Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited ...

The Engineering Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient and effective operation of ... Drive continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing principles to enhance productivity ...

VA

$21 - $23/hr

Important openings include assemblers for our production lines and engineers and designers for ... The Lean Production Support is a hands-on role critical to the success of the LEAN Marketplace.

VA

$14.75 - $18.75/hr

Important openings include assemblers for our production lines and engineers and designers for ... Responsibilities The Lean Production Support is a hands-on role critical to the success of the LEAN ...

Showing results 21-40

Lean Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$31

$56

How much do lean engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for lean engineering in Virginia is $31.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $37.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lean engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lean Engineer, a strong background in industrial engineering, process improvement, and Lean manufacturing principles is essential, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with tools like Six Sigma, Kaizen, value stream mapping, and Lean certification (such as Lean Six Sigma Green Belt) is typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams stand out as vital soft skills. These competencies drive operational efficiency, cost savings, and continuous improvement within manufacturing or production environments.

What is lean engineering?

Lean Engineering is an approach to engineering that focuses on maximizing value while minimizing waste throughout the design, development, and manufacturing processes. It applies Lean principles—originally developed in manufacturing—to engineering workflows, aiming to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality. Lean Engineering encourages continuous improvement, collaboration, and the elimination of non-value-added activities. This methodology is widely used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and technology to streamline product development and accelerate time-to-market.

How does a lean engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement process improvements?

Lean Engineers work closely with cross-functional teams—including production, quality, supply chain, and management—to identify inefficiencies and implement process enhancements. They facilitate workshops such as Kaizen events, gather input from team members at all levels, and use data-driven approaches to develop sustainable solutions. Effective communication and stakeholder engagement are crucial, as Lean Engineers must ensure that changes are practical and embraced by all involved. This collaborative environment not only fosters innovation but also accelerates the adoption of best practices across the organization.

What is the difference between Lean Engineering vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectLean EngineeringMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, certifications in Lean or Six SigmaBachelor's or master's in mechanical engineering, professional licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, process improvement, product developmentDesign, testing, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems
Industry UsageManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, process industriesAutomotive, aerospace, robotics, energy sectors

Lean Engineering focuses on optimizing processes and reducing waste through methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma, often working across various manufacturing and process environments. Mechanical Engineers design and develop mechanical systems, focusing on product development, testing, and maintenance. While both roles require engineering credentials, Lean Engineering emphasizes process improvement skills, whereas Mechanical Engineering centers on mechanical design and analysis.

What job categories do people searching Lean Engineering jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Lean Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Lean Engineering job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,061 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineering Technician I-Washington,District of Columbia

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$32.88 - $48.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineering Technician who is passionate about continuous improvement, manufacturing process optimization, and data-driven problem solving. In this role, you will partner closely with Production, Manufacturing Engineering, and cross-functional teams to analyze manufacturing processes, identify improvement opportunities, and support new product introduction (NPI) activities. Responsibilities include process planning, root cause analysis, lean manufacturing initiatives, project coordination, and the development of tools and solutions that improve quality, productivity, and operational efficiency.
The ideal candidate combines strong technical fundamentals with curiosity and initiative. We are particularly interested in individuals who enjoy analyzing manufacturing systems, applying Lean and Quality methodologies, and leveraging data to drive decisions. Experience with process analysis tools such as FMEA, Value Stream Mapping, and process flow modeling is highly valued. Interest or experience in manufacturing process simulation software-such as FlowSim, Arena, or similar platforms-is especially desirable, as this role will help evaluate and develop future simulation capabilities to identify bottlenecks, optimize workflows, and support strategic improvement efforts across our manufacturing operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Leverage World Class Manufacturing principles, work measurement, and flow analysis to recommend process improvement and automation opportunities for Production consideration.

  • Participate in design reviews and manufacturability assessments in accordance with DFM guidelines. Complete assigned process planning, risk assessment, and/or process capability analysis tasks.

  • Support manufacturing operations, specific technologies, and/or production lines; helping resolve issues through structured root cause analysis problem solving methods.

  • Seek input, specify, and drive system enhancements to improve communications and optimize work processes.

  • Provide accurate project estimates, coordinate prototype/pilot builds, and basic Engineering Change Orders through effective project management.

  • Manage NPI project tasks (including build timelines, materials availability, and resource needs); execute assigned tasks, monitor progress, and capture results vs. plan to meet overall project deliverables.

  • Support Production implementation efforts.

  • Contribute to the development of basic solutions for production (e.g., jigs, tools) in accordance with defined engineering procedures and with engineering supervision.

  • Help ensure product quality by interpreting and applying engineering requirements, specifications, IPC workmanship, IEC compliance, and other standards.

Qualifications and Experience
1. Two-year technical degree or the combination of equivalent training and relevant work experience.
2. Demonstratable technical competence in ALL "core curriculum" subject areas:
  • Drawing & schematic interpretation

  • Problem solving skills, such as 8D, DOE, A3, or DMAIC

  • Mathematics - geometry, trigonometry, college algebra

  • Statistical Methods, Reasoning, & Applications

  • Applied Physics

  • Technical Writing

3. Demonstratable technical coming pathways:
a. Continuous Improvement Methodologies, such as:
  • Process analysis (FMEA, PFD, VSM)

  • Lean principles (waste reduction, flow optimization, SMED/QCO)

  • Quality tools (DMAIC, SPC, metrology, MSA, capability analysis)

b.Mechanical design, Statics, CAD, Tolerance Analysis, and rapid prototyping
c.Programming, Scripting, Data Structures, and Data Mining
d. Project Management
4. Proficient user of (handles all standard tasks independently):
  • Microsoft Outlook, Excel;
  • Project Management tools, such as Confluence and JIRA

5. Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment
6. Strong written & verbal communication skills
7. Mechanical aptitude
8. Background check results satisfactory to SEL
9. Negative drug test results
Physical Requirements
  • Lift, push, pull and maneuver up to 20 pounds frequently, and up to 35 pounds occasionally

  • Reach, Bend, Twist

  • Sit and stand for at least 8 hours

  • Vision correctable to 20/30 or better

  • Ability to differentiate color

  • Proficient in the use of computer keyboard devices

Location Information
Pullman, WA- This position is located in Pullman, WA. Nestled in Eastern Washington, offering an exceptional quality of life. Embrace the charm of small-town living with spacious surroundings, no traffic hassles, and easy access to outdoor adventures in nearby mountains, rivers, and forests. Plus, benefit from excellent schools and universities in the area.
Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.
People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.
  • We're 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.
  • We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
  • We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.
  • We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.
  • Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range Information
The range for this role is $32.88-$48.60 per hour. We base our starting pay offer on location and job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills. Our ranges are determined by job, responsibility, and location.
Communication with Applicants
We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAM filter or reach out to us at careers@selinc.com.
SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.

What Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom