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Lean Leader Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Stryker

Lean Practitioner

Portage, MI · On-site

$118K - $196K/yr

Additionally, you will mentor and coach site business unit leaders across the manufacturing site and thoughtfully apply lean to our most important strategic priorities. The successful candidate will ...

Stryker

Lean Practitioner

Portage, MI · On-site

$118K - $196K/yr

Additionally, you will mentor and coach site business unit leaders across the manufacturing site and thoughtfully apply lean to our most important strategic priorities. The successful candidate will ...

Brinks

Director, Lean Operations

Detroit, MI

BCO) is a leading global provider of cash and valuables management, digital retail solutions, and ... Brink's is seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Lean Operations to lead the enterprise-wide ...

Autocam Medical

Lean Specialist

Kentwood, MI · On-site

This role partners with site leadership to implement and sustain Lean methodologies, with a strong emphasis on standard work, SMED (Single-Minute Exchange of Dies), and waste elimination. Reporting ...

Autocam Medical

Lean Specialist

Kentwood, MI

This role partners with site leadership to implement and sustain Lean methodologies, with a strong emphasis on standard work, SMED (Single-Minute Exchange of Dies), and waste elimination. Reporting ...

Ford Motor Company

Lean Strategist

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$111K - $144K/yr

As a Lean Strategist, you will be a key architect of Ford's continuous improvement culture. You ... Kaizen Leadership: Organize and lead high-impact Kaizen events at Ford manufacturing plants ...

Ford Motor Company

Lean Strategist

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$112K - $212K/yr

As a Lean Strategist, you will be a key architect of Ford's continuous improvement culture. You ... Leadership: Demonstrated ability to influence at all levels, from shop-floor operators to executive ...

Ilmor

Lean Manufacturing Supervisor

New Hudson, MI · On-site

LEAN MANUFACTURING SUPERVISOR - MARINE ENGINES Step into a leadership role at the heart of our marine engine production operation. In this fast-paced and highly visible role, you will own the ...

Ford Motor Company

Lean Strategist

Dearborn, MI

$112K - $212K/yr

As a Lean Strategist, you will be a key architect of Ford's continuous improvement culture. You ... Leadership: Demonstrated ability to influence at all levels, from shop-floor operators to executive ...

Ford Motor Company

FPS and Launch Specialist

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$96K - $162K/yr

Work closely with plant leadership, engineers, team leaders, and other stakeholders * Communicate findings clearly through presentations, reports, and visual tools. Uphold Lean principles and assist ...

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All JobsLean Leader JobsLean Leader Jobs in Michigan

Lean Leader information

See Michigan salary details

$51.4K

$86.7K

$139.9K

How much do lean leader jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for lean leader in Michigan is $86,723.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,200.00 and $110,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Lean Leader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lean Leader job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,723 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Lean Practitioner

Stryker

Portage, MI • On-site

$118K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Work Flexibility: Onsite

This role will lead transformation efforts to build lean capabilities, including the deployment of lean leadership and strengthening Stryker lean methodologies and strategies at a Stryker manufacturing site. Additionally, you will mentor and coach site business unit leaders across the manufacturing site and thoughtfully apply lean to our most important strategic priorities. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to create strategy, hands-on lean execution, as well as the ability to scale lean through the development of others. This is an onsite position in Portage, MI.

What You Will Do:

  • Lean strategy deployment
  • Execute lean programs aligned to site priorities & global initiatives
  • Partner with business unit leaders to establish KPIs and drive improvements through lean principles
  • Partner with business unit leaders to develop and execute site strategy and create organizational alignment through strategy
  • Ensure lean deployment has an effective supporting operating rhythm

Deliver Results and Outcomes:

  • Thoughtfully apply lean principles and tools to deliver key business outcomes
  • Deliver both business results and scalable lean capabilities

Leadership:

  • Develop high-performing lean leaders across the manufacturing site
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams and departments to promote a culture of continuous improvement

Lean Tools and Techniques:

  • Implement and continuously improve the Stryker lean toolkit
  • Teach and deploy lean tools including Standard Work, Daily Management, Problem Solving, Kaizen, Value-Stream Mapping, Transactional Process Improvement, Kanban and 6S
  • Train and educate employees at all levels on lean principles and tools

Change Management:

  • Partner with supervisor to develop change management strategy
  • Drive organizational change to embrace lean principles and foster a culture of continuous improvement
  • Facilitate communication and provide guidance to ensure the successful adoption of lean practices

Performance Monitoring:

  • Establish and maintain systems for monitoring and reporting on the progress and impact of lean initiatives
  • Regularly review and adjust strategies based on performance data

Compliance and Standards:

  • Ensure that all lean transformation efforts comply with industry standards and regulations
  • Promote a culture of safety and quality in all lean initiatives

What You Need:

  • Bachelor's degree with focus in technical or operational background
  • 8+ years of post-graduate experience
  • 5+ years experience in Lean manufacturing transformations and implementing Lean methodologies in small and large manufacturing plants and organizations
  • Demonstrated deep practitioner experience in Lean in both operations and transactional environments
  • Demonstrated proficiency and experience in change management and strategy development required
  • Exceptional leadership, communication, and change management skills
  • Demonstrated ability to manage risk, schedule, budget, and resources for highly complex and large impact projects against set milestones with challenging deadlines
  • Demonstrated proficiency in working in a matrix organization and partnering at all levels of the organization

$118,000 - $196,700 USD Annual

Travel Percentage: 10%Stryker Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Stryker is an EO employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability.Stryker Corporation will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.

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