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Lean Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lean Leader Exempt Status: Exempt Location: Cheshire, CT Company Description: Hanwha Aerospace USA has long been recognized as a leader in the development and supply of flight critical Aerospace ...

Lean Leader

Maxton, NC ยท On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

The Lean Leader is responsible for driving the lean transformation, installing standards to sustain process improvements, and supporting leadership to develop the lean capabilities of all team ...

The Lean Leader provides continuous improvement support focusing on targeted improvement initiatives. This role will be tasked with leading focused improvement actions to ensure the Division is ...

The Lean Leader is responsible for driving the lean transformation, installing standards to sustain process improvements, and supporting leadership to develop the lean capabilities of all team ...

Lean Leader

Maxton, NC

$79K - $112K/yr

The Lean Leader is responsible for driving the lean transformation, installing standards to sustain process improvements, and supporting leadership to develop the lean capabilities of all team ...

Lean Leader

Duncan, SC ยท On-site

$104K - $149K/yr

Lean Leader Who will you be working with? You will partner with cross-functional teams across manufacturing, quality, engineering, and operations to support safe, efficient, and high-quality ...

As a key member of the lean enterprise team, this position is responsible for leading strategically aligned, organizational-level change while training and mentoring Lean Subject Matter Experts ...

Develops Lean capability across the value stream by coaching Focus Factory staff, frontline leaders, and associates in JCBS principles, strengthening problemsolving behaviors, operational discipline ...

Senior Lean Leader BH Job ID: BH-4051-3 SF Job Req ID: Senior Lean Leader Ingersoll Rand is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without ...

New

Senior Lean Leader BH Job ID: BH-4051 SF Job Req ID: Senior Lean Leader Ingersoll Rand is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without ...

New

Senior Lean Leader BH Job ID: BH-4051 SF Job Req ID: Senior Lean Leader Ingersoll Rand is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without ...

New

Senior Lean Leader BH Job ID: BH-4051-3 SF Job Req ID: Senior Lean Leader Ingersoll Rand is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without ...

New

Lean Leader

San Antonio, TX ยท On-site

$76K - $114K/yr

Can show certifications from a reputable lean leading company. * Has demonstrated effective interpersonal skills and the ability to exercise without authority. * Proficiency in Microsoft Suite ...

TPM/Lean Leader

Greenwood, IN ยท On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

TPM/Lean Leader At Endress+Hauser, progress happens by working together. As the global leader in measurement instrumentation, our ~17,000 employees shape the future in the field of process automation.

Lean Leader

San Antonio, TX ยท On-site

$76K - $114K/yr

Can show certifications from a reputable lean leading company. * Has demonstrated effective interpersonal skills and the ability to exercise without authority. * Proficiency in Microsoft Suite ...

TPM/Lean Leader

Greenwood, IN ยท On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

TPM/Lean Leader At Endress+Hauser, progress happens by working together. As the global leader in measurement instrumentation, our ~17,000 employees shape the future in the field of process automation.

This role will be based in Midland, TX with travel to Carlsbad, NM, and will work closely with field operations, engineering, and leadership teams to embed Lean Management Framework principles and ...

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Lean Leader information

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$59K

$99.5K

$160.5K

How much do lean leader jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for lean leader in the United States is $99,499.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lean leader?

Lean Leaders are professionals who guide organizations in applying Lean principles to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize processes. They facilitate continuous improvement initiatives, train teams on Lean methodologies, and lead projects aimed at increasing value for customers. Lean Leaders work across departments to identify inefficiencies, implement best practices, and foster a culture of ongoing process improvement. Their role is crucial in driving operational excellence and sustaining long-term business growth.

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

To thrive as a Lean Leader, you need a strong background in process improvement, data analysis, and Lean methodologies, typically supported by a degree in engineering, business, or related fields and Lean Six Sigma certification. Familiarity with value stream mapping, root cause analysis tools, and continuous improvement software is essential. Excellent leadership, communication, and change management skills help drive team engagement and sustain improvement initiatives. These skills ensure effective implementation of Lean principles, resulting in increased efficiency, reduced waste, and lasting organizational impact.

How does a lean leader typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive process improvements?

Lean Leaders work closely with cross-functional teams by facilitating workshops, leading kaizen events, and encouraging open communication across departments. They help identify inefficiencies, gather input from team members at all levels, and guide teams through problem-solving methodologies such as root cause analysis or value stream mapping. This collaborative approach ensures that improvements are sustainable and embraced by those directly involved in the processes. Lean Leaders also mentor team members in Lean principles, fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.

What is the difference between Lean Leader vs Continuous Improvement Coordinator?

AspectLean LeaderContinuous Improvement Coordinator
CertificationsLean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, Lean certificationsLean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, Continuous Improvement certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, production, or operational settingsOffice, manufacturing, or service environments
Employer & IndustryManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and related industriesManufacturing, healthcare, and service sectors

The main difference is that a Lean Leader typically holds more strategic and leadership responsibilities in implementing lean methodologies, while a Continuous Improvement Coordinator focuses on supporting and executing improvement projects. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in similar environments, but the Lean Leader has a broader scope and leadership role in driving lean initiatives across departments.

How to become a Lean Leader?

To become a Lean Leader, individuals typically gain experience in process improvement and operational management, often through roles in manufacturing or service industries. Earning certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt can enhance credibility, and strong skills in problem-solving, team leadership, and data analysis are essential for success in this role.

What does a Lean Leader do?

A Lean Leader is responsible for implementing and maintaining Lean principles to improve efficiency and reduce waste within an organization. They lead process improvement initiatives, facilitate team training, and use tools like value stream mapping to optimize workflows. Strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of Lean methodologies are essential for this role.

What states have the most Lean Leader jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lean Leader jobs include:

Infographic showing various Lean Leader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,499 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description


Job Title: Lean Leader

Exempt Status: Exempt

Location: Cheshire, CT


Company Description:

Hanwha Aerospace USA has long been recognized as a leader in the development and supply of flight critical Aerospace/Defense components and assemblies. Operating out of four state-of-the-art facilities located in Connecticut, Hanwha Aerospace USA offers growth and career development opportunities to enrich your talents. 


Summary: 

The Lean Leader is responsible for driving continuous improvement initiatives, optimizing production processes, and fostering a culture of operational excellence across manufacturing and support functions. This role leads the implementation of Lean principles and methodologies to improve safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee engagement while ensuring compliance with aerospace industry standards and regulatory requirements.


Essential Functions:

  • Organizes and conducts 5S, Kaizen events, lean events, value stream mapping events, etc. as appropriate to assist in reducing waste and costs
  • Effectively communicates with all employees through visual factory concepts training sessions as well as written and oral communications
  • Works alongside production, engineering, quality, purchasing, and finance departments to reduce costs
  • Layout manufacturing cells, work areas, or entire facilities to enhance flow
  • Establishes foals and priorities in conjunction with functional leaders
  • Documents projects and presents summary to management and employees on a regular basis
  • Leads and coordinates efforts on key projects selected with management
  • Conducts training of employees at all levels of the organization on lean manufacturing principle
  • Interfaces with customers through continuous improvement activities (6 sigma program, lean manufacturing, lean enterprise, etc.)
  • Perform other related duties or responsibilities as requested or required.


Required Qualifications & Experience:

  • Must be a “U.S. Person” as defined by the U.S. Government and able to work without restrictions with ITAR related data
  • Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Management, or other related field
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D in lieu of Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years experience
  • 5+ years of experience


Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to communicate professionally and effectively with all levels of the organization. 
  • Ability to interpret policies, procedures, and standard business practices. 
  • Ability to read, write, and understand English at a functional level.
  • Ability to travel 5-10% when required. 

 

Physical Demands / Work Capacity Evaluation

The essential functions of this position may vary based on specific assignments, work locations, and operational needs. Physical capability is evaluated through a post-offer, pre-employment Human Performance Evaluation (HPE), which assesses an individual’s ability to perform the essential functions of the job safely and effectively, with or without reasonable accommodation, in accordance with applicable laws.


 

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform.

 

Hanwha Aerospace USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, Sexual Orientation, and Gender Identity or Expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit Retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.

*Subject to change with or without notice*