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Lean Manager Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Gates

Plant Manager

Elizabethtown, KY · On-site

Lead and sustain Lean Manufacturing and CI initiatives. * Own and prioritize Plant PD Backlog ... Manages conflict promptly and professionally * Drives performance accountability at all levels ...

Gates Corporation

Plant Manager

Elizabethtown, KY · On-site

Lead and sustain Lean Manufacturing and CI initiatives. * Own and prioritize Plant PD Backlog ... Manages conflict promptly and professionally * Drives performance accountability at all levels ...

M D Building Products

Quality Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

The role focuses on driving operational excellence through lean methodologies, quality management systems, and a culture of continuous improvement. Limited involvement with other locations nationwide ...

ASSA ABLOY

Regional Quality Manager

Corbin, KY

Demonstrated success implementing and leading Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Quality Management ... Systems, Statistical Process Control (SPC), Root Cause Analysis, and Continuous Improvement ...

M D Building Products

Quality Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

The role focuses on driving operational excellence through lean methodologies, quality management systems, and a culture of continuous improvement. Limited involvement with other locations nationwide ...

Assa Abloy

Regional Quality Manager

Corbin, KY · On-site

Demonstrated success implementing and leading Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Quality Management ... Systems, Statistical Process Control (SPC), Root Cause Analysis, and Continuous Improvement ...

M-D Building Products

Quality Manager

Louisville, KY · On-site

The role focuses on driving operational excellence through lean methodologies, quality management systems, and a culture of continuous improvement. Limited involvement with other locations nationwide ...

Whip Mix

Production Manager

Louisville, KY

Production Manager We are looking for a Production Manager who enjoys rolling up their sleeves ... Drive continuous improvement through Lean, 6S, Kaizen, and other operational excellence initiatives

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Lean Manager information

See Kentucky salary details

$48.2K

$88.1K

$122K

How much do lean manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for lean manager in Kentucky is $88,086.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,200.00 and $99,900.00 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 Kentucky? The most popular types of Lean jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Lean Manager jobs in Kentucky? For Lean Manager jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lean Manager jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Lean Manager jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Lean Manager jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Lean Manager job openings:
Lean Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lean Manager job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,086 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Plant Manager

Gates

Elizabethtown, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Gates Corporation rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

366th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.
Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.
Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?
What to Expect
As an innovation leader, we look for ambitious, forward thinking, open-minded and well-rounded individuals to join our global team. Located in our Elizabethtown, KY plant, you will be a Plant Manager.
The Plant Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of manufacturing operations to ensure efficient production, high-quality output, and adherence to safety standards. This role leads the planning, organizing, and directing of daily activities at the plant, driving continuous improvement initiatives and cost reduction programs. The Plant Manager fosters a culture of operational excellence, teamwork, and employee development while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. They collaborate cross-functionally to optimize resources, resolve production challenges, and meet customer expectations, ultimately contributing to the company's profitability and growth.
Key Responsibilities (to name a few)
  • Lead all plant operations including production, maintenance, engineering, quality, logistics, and supply chain. Deliver on Annual Operating Plan (AOP), monthly, quarterly , and annually.
  • Drive rapid problem identification, escalation, and resolution.
  • Own plant performance through structured management of SQDCI metrics.
  • Own full plan P&L including: absorption performance, cost variance management, productivity improvement.
  • Drive initiatives to improve labor efficiency, machine utilization, and fixed cost leverage.
  • Lead budgeting, forecasting, and cost-out roadmap execution.
  • Lead and sustain Lean Manufacturing and CI initiatives.
  • Own and prioritize Plant PD Backlog.
  • Establish and enforce Leader Standard Work (LSW) through daily Gemba walks, KPI review routines, and coaching.
  • Champion a zero-incident culture.
  • Build and develop a high-performance leadership team.
  • Deploy best practices across operations and benchmark performance.
  • Ensure adherence to internal and customer quality requirements.
  • Fosters a collaborative and empowered work environment that supports full compliance with Collective Bargaining Agreement

About You
  • 10+ years of manufacturing experience, including 5+ year in plant leadership.
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering, operations, business (MBA preferred)
  • Hands-on experience in Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing environments
  • Strong technical knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, World Class Quality methodologies, and best-in-class Health and Safety standards
  • Acts as a change agent, driving a culture of continuous improvement
  • Skilled at managing ambiguity and making sound decisions in high-pressure situations
  • Analytical problem solver with excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Manages conflict promptly and professionally
  • Drives performance accountability at all levels, providing effective feedback to promote employee growth
  • Passionate about workplace safety with a strong ability to set and enforce safety standards
  • Possesses strong financial discipline, business acumen, and organizational skills
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship

PAY & BENEFITS
  1. Full-Time
  2. Bonus Eligible
  3. Relocation is provided
  4. Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
  5. Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued
  6. Eligible for Flexible Time Off
  7. 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
  8. Tuition Reimbursement

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