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Lean Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Lineage

Continuous Improvement Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$92K - $123K/yr

They will also provide detailed instruction and guidance on corporate Lean initiatives while ... In addition, the CI Manager will lead the development of a yearly site Continuous Improvement ...

Roquette

Plant Manager

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$185K - $280K/yr

Apply strong technical expertise - including Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem solving to improve throughput, asset reliability, yield, and cost performance. * Lead major change management ...

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Lean Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$52.1K

$95.3K

$132K

How much do lean manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for lean manager in Iowa is $95,260.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectLean ManagerContinuous Improvement Coordinator
CredentialsLean certifications, Six Sigma Green/Black BeltLean or Six Sigma training, certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, production, or service industriesManufacturing, healthcare, or corporate settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in industries focusing on process efficiencyUsed across various industries aiming for process improvements
Primary FocusImplementing lean principles to eliminate wasteSupporting continuous improvement initiatives and projects

While both roles focus on process enhancement, a Lean Manager leads lean implementation and strategy, whereas a Continuous Improvement Coordinator supports ongoing improvement projects. The Lean Manager typically has more strategic responsibilities, while the Coordinator focuses on executing specific initiatives.

What is a lean manager?

Lean managers identify areas in a business that can be streamlined to make processes and production more efficient. These changes are often small and incremental, but lean managers find ways to reduce areas that waste time, effort, or money, and make the overall functions of the business run more smoothly. As a lean manager, you need to understand how your company runs, the goals of production, and be able to connect with employees so that they are inspired to move towards the same efficiency objectives. You must know how to analyze data, dissect small and large processes of your business, and provide practical ways to cut unnecessary waste.

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

A Lean Manager regularly works with cross-functional teams—such as operations, quality, engineering, and supply chain—to identify inefficiencies and implement process improvements. This involves facilitating workshops, guiding value stream mapping sessions, and coaching team members on Lean principles. Effective collaboration requires strong communication skills to align different departments toward common goals and ensure that changes are sustained over time. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Lean Managers help teams break down silos and achieve greater efficiency together.

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

To thrive as a Lean Manager, you need expertise in process improvement methodologies, strong analytical skills, and typically a background in engineering, operations, or business management. Familiarity with Lean tools such as Value Stream Mapping, Six Sigma, and experience with ERP systems or continuous improvement certifications (like Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt) are highly valued. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills are crucial for driving change and engaging teams. These skills and qualifications enable Lean Managers to effectively streamline processes, reduce waste, and foster a culture of continuous improvement within organizations.
More about Lean Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Lean jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Lean jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Lean Manager jobs in Iowa? For Lean Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lean Manager jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Lean Manager jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Lean Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Lean Manager job openings:
Lean Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lean Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,260 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Lean Development Manager

HNI Workplace Furnishings

Muscatine, IA • On-site

$90K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

HNI Corporation is a global family of brands for the workplace and home dedicated to enhancing the spaces where we live, work, and gather. We pride ourselves on fostering an environment where we make a positive impact on others; upholding our beliefs in integrity, inclusion and belonging.
 
Your Impact Starts the Day You Do!
 
What We Need: 
We are looking for a Lean Development Manager to join our HNI Workplace Furnishings team!
The Lean Development Manager is a primary resource to support HNI’s lean transformation efforts. The Lean Development Manager will partner with the BPI team and leadership to drive lean vision and strategy, increase lean talent and member engagement, and deploy the BPI model and tools to drive sustainable business results.
What You Will Do: 
  • Participate in and lead problem solving events and workshops to drive improved business results.
  • Support Hoshin Kanri training and deployment
  • Mentor members (executive leaders to BPI Managers in facilities) in lean practices and tools
  • Develop BPI training materials and deliver practical, hands-on training and facilitate workshops in BPI methodology to eliminate waste.
  • Promote a continuous learning environment.
  • Collaborate with business leaders to develop and drive adherence to BPI standards.
  • Schedule, facilitate, and participate in HNI Operations System Assessments and update supporting documents (manual, coaching guidelines, and lean leader matrix)
  • Coordinate external consultants and manage kaizen event schedules
  • Provide member development opportunities through coordination of external benchmarking visits, lean study tours, conferences, and virtual training.
  • Communicate best practices within the organization, championing leverage across all business
  • Travel: 30-50% is expected, mostly domestic, but could include Mexico
 
What You Have: 
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or Operations Management.
  • Experience and training in Hoshin Kanri, with practical implementation in both commercial and operational environments.
 
What You’re Good At: 
  • Demonstrated understanding of lean principles and proven track record/performance
  • Change management, lean leadership and RCI and problem-solving event participation
  • Team leading/building with cross-functional teams
  • Proven performance in a transformation role
  • Effective presentation skills and ability to influence others
  • Completion of Lean training or coursework focused on operational or commercial improvement; Green or Black Belt certification is preferred.

Apply