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Lean Manager Jobs in Zion, IL (NOW HIRING)

Standardize successful improvements through visual management and documented processes * Support ... Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt * Experience in machining, hydraulics, or discrete manufacturing

The Lean Process Engineer develops and improves manufacturing processes by studying product and ... Your Supervisor/Manager may from time to time ask you to perform other related duties not ...

Lean Six Sigma Champion

Mount Pleasant, WI · On-site

$76K - $102K/yr

Lean Six Sigma Champion Department: Supporting Quality Employment Type: Full Time Location: SMC ... Ensure all improvements comply with internal quality management systems, regulatory requirements ...

The Lean Six Sigma Champion will lead cross-functional improvement projects, develop internal ... Ensure all improvements comply with internal quality management systems, regulatory requirements ...

Serve as Lean DBS Subject Matter Expert to our Richmond, Illinois manufacturing site; drive ... Install and facilitate Visual & Daily Management at Gemba across the Richmond, Illinois site. The ...

Apply lean tools and methods within a Value Stream environment to reduce process variation, create standardization, improve quality, and eliminate waste. * Manage the plant operational departments ...

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Lean Manager information

See Zion, IL salary details

$53.4K

$97.5K

$135.1K

How much do lean manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for lean manager in Zion, IL is $97,548.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,600.00 and $110,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 job categories do people searching Lean Manager jobs in Zion, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Lean Manager jobs in Zion, IL are:

What cities near Zion, IL are hiring for Lean Manager jobs?

Cities near Zion, IL with the most Lean Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Lean Manager job openings in Zion, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,548 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Lean Manufacturing Engineer

Sturtevant, WI • On-site

Poclain Hydraulics Inc
Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Lean Manufacturing EngineerPoclain Hydraulics is a global leader in the design and manufacture of hydrostatic transmission systems used in construction, agriculture, material handling, mining, and industrial equipment. At our Sturtevant, Wisconsin facility, we're committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and developing people who want to make a lasting impact.Overview

Are you energized by solving problems, eliminating waste, and helping people succeed?

We're looking for a Lean Manufacturing Engineer who will champion continuous improvement across our manufacturing operations. This isn't a desk job—we're looking for someone who enjoys being on the production floor, coaching teams, leading Kaizen events, and helping build a culture where continuous improvement is part of everyday work.

What You'll Do
  • Lead Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives
  • Facilitate Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping, and problem-solving workshops
  • Partner with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Maintenance, and HR
  • Coach leaders and production teams on Lean principles
  • Analyze manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve safety, quality, delivery, and productivity
  • Standardize successful improvements through visual management and documented processes
  • Support employee development through hands-on coaching and training
What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, or related field
  • 3+ years of Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience in manufacturing
  • Experience leading cross-functional improvement projects
  • Strong analytical, communication, and facilitation skills
  • Passion for developing people and driving organizational change

Preferred

  • Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt
  • Experience in machining, hydraulics, or discrete manufacturing
  • Knowledge of TPM, SMED, 5S, Kanban, Standard Work, Value Stream Mapping, A3 Problem Solving, and Root Cause Analysis
Why Join Poclain?
  • Global manufacturer with local decision making
  • Opportunity to lead transformational projects
  • Collaborative, team-oriented culture
  • Competitive compensation and benefits
  • Career growth within an international organization

Make an impact where continuous improvement isn't just a program—it's how we work every day.