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Lean Manager Jobs in Ridgecrest, CA (NOW HIRING)

Quality Control Manager

Ridgecrest, CA · On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

Experience implementing Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous process improvement initiatives. * Certification as an ISO 9001 Internal or Lead Auditor. * Experience using computerized maintenance management ...

Experience implementing Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous process improvement initiatives. Certification as an ISO 9001 Internal or Lead Auditor. Experience using computerized maintenance management ...

Talent Operator

California City, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $200K/yr

Operating as a lean, high-velocity team, our client is currently scaling its operations to meet the ... Manage the internal hiring machine by liaising with hiring managers to define roles and ...

Lean Manager information

See Ridgecrest, CA salary details

$55.1K

$100.7K

$139.5K

How much do lean manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for lean manager in Ridgecrest, CA is $100,720.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,400.00 and $114,200.00 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.
What job categories do people searching Lean Manager jobs in Ridgecrest, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Lean Manager jobs in Ridgecrest, CA are:
What cities near Ridgecrest, CA are hiring for Lean Manager jobs? Cities near Ridgecrest, CA with the most Lean Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Lean Manager job openings in Ridgecrest, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,720 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Quality Control Manager

Alutiiq, LLC

Ridgecrest, CA • On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Taxable Entity
ALUTIIQ LOGISTICS & MAINTENANCE SVS LLC
Job Title
Quality Control Manager
Location
CA Ridgecrest China Lake - Ridgecrest, CA 93555 US (Primary)
Category
Quality Control
Job Type
Full-time
Typical Pay/Range
$96,000 to $120,000 Annually
Education
High School Diploma or GED
Travel
None
Security Clearance Required
Secret
POSITION OVERVIEW AND PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS):
Location: Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake, Ridgecrest, California
Position Summary:
The Quality Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, managing, and continuously improving the Quality Management System (QMS) for a large-scale Base Operations Support (BOS) contract at Naval Air Weapons Station (NAWS) China Lake. This position serves as the principal authority for quality assurance and quality control activities, ensuring contract performance complies with all contract requirements, performance standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies.
The Quality Manager works closely with the Program Manager, Operations Managers, Government representatives, and functional department leaders to establish a culture of continuous improvement while ensuring exceptional service delivery across all contract functions.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop, implement, administer, and continuously improve the contract Quality Management System (QMS).
  • Prepare, maintain, and enforce the Quality Management Plan in accordance with contract requirements.
  • Ensure compliance with all Performance Work Statement (PWS), Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP), applicable regulations, and company policies.
  • Establish quality objectives, performance metrics, inspection programs, and reporting processes.
  • Conduct internal quality audits, inspections, and surveillance activities throughout all service areas.
  • Analyze quality trends, identify systemic issues, and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
  • Lead root cause analyses and develop effective corrective action plans.
  • Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and other performance metrics to ensure contract compliance.
  • Coordinate with Government Quality Assurance Evaluators (QAEs), Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs), and other Government stakeholders regarding quality-related matters.
  • Prepare and present quality reports, dashboards, and executive briefings to company leadership and Government representatives.
  • Verify completion and effectiveness of corrective actions resulting from inspections, audits, customer complaints, or Government findings.
  • Ensure subcontractor quality programs comply with contract requirements.
  • Support contract startup, transition, and mobilization activities related to quality management.
  • Develop and deliver quality-related training for contract personnel.
  • Promote a culture of continuous process improvement using industry best practices.
  • Maintain all quality documentation, records, inspection reports, and audit files.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Areas of Responsibility:
  • The Quality Manager oversees quality assurance activities supporting multiple functional areas including:
  • Custodial Services
  • Facilities Investment and Support
  • Transportation Services
  • Base Support Vehicles and Equipment
  • Preventive and Corrective Maintenance
  • Work Control and Service Call Management
  • Performance Metrics and KPI Management
  • Continuous Process Improvement
  • Customer Satisfaction Programs

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Current Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) certification.
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience preparing, implementing, managing, and enforcing Quality Managemnt Systems (QMS) on federal service contracts of similar size, scope, and complexity.
  • Experience supporting contracts with an annual value of approximately $60 million or greater.
  • Experience supporting large Base Operations Support (BOS), Installation Support Services, or Facility Support Services contracts.
  • Demonstrated experience implementing quality management principles across geographically dispersed operations.
  • Experience preparing Quality Management Plans, inspection programs, audit schedules, and corrective action processes.
  • Experience leading internal audits and Government quality reviews.
  • Strong knowledge of performance-based service contracting.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and leadership abilities.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and SharePoint.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience supporting the Department of the Navy, Department of Defense, or other federal agencies.
  • Experience with Base Operations Support (BOS) contracts.
  • Experience with ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems.
  • Experience implementing Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous process improvement initiatives.
  • Certification as an ISO 9001 Internal or Lead Auditor.
  • Experience using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) such as Maximo, NexGen, or similar systems.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Thorough knowledge of Quality Management Systems and quality assurance principles.
  • Ability to interpret Performance Work Statements, Quality Assurance Surveillance Plans, and contract requirements.
  • Strong understanding of root cause analysis and corrective action methodologies.
  • Excellent leadership and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic operational environment.
  • Strong customer service orientation.
  • Ability to prepare executive-level reports and briefings.
  • Ability to build positive working relationships with Government customers and internal stakeholders.

Work Environment:
  • The Quality Manager operates in both office and field environments and routinely conducts inspections throughout the installation. The position requires interaction with Government personnel, subcontractors, and contract employees across multiple operational locations.

Security Requirements:
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain all security credentials required for access to Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake.

Afognak Native Corporation and Afognak's direct and indirect subsidiaries, partnerships, joint ventures and affiliates to include Alutiiq, LLC; Afognak Commercial Group, LLC; Alutiiq Professional Consulting, LLC; and each of their respective domestic and foreign, direct and indirect subsidiaries, partnerships, joint ventures and affiliates are equal opportunity employers that do not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship status, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions and lactation), sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws (collectively, "Protected Status").
The pay range information provided is a general guideline. The pay rate offered will be determined based on the candidate's experience and qualifications, as well as geographic locations, market data, and other business considerations, as permitted by law.
Our full range of benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability protection, life insurance, prescription coverage, voluntary benefits, paid leave, and 401(k) retirement. Positions covered by the McNamara O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), Davis-Bacon Act (DBA), or a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), or Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) will comply with the statute or CBA requirements as well as other client-customer contract requirements (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). For more information, please visit our Company's Career page.

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About Alutiiq

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Anchorage, AK, US

Year founded

1999

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