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Lean Manufacturing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Manufacturing Engineer

Benicia, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Experience with lean manufacturing, kaizen, and qualification activities Responsibilities: * Responsible for the design, build, and validation of new process automation equipment and tooling * Create ...

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Manufacturing Engineer

Irvine, CA

$77K - $99K/yr

Support Lean manufacturing and Operational Excellence efforts focused on waste reduction, process optimization, and standardization. * Assist in implementing best practices that enhance safety ...

Lean/Industrial Engineer

Pasadena, CA

$76K - $103K/yr

This role requires expertise in Lean Manufacturing principles, Industrial Engineering methods, and operational analytics to drive measurable improvements in efficiency, quality, and throughput across ...

Lead continuous improvement initiatives by applying Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to optimize throughput, reduce waste, improve process capability, and implement standardized work ...

Lead continuous improvement initiatives by applying Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to optimize throughput, reduce waste, improve process capability, and implement standardized work ...

Manufacturing Manager

Newark, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Lead Lean Manufacturing initiatives focused on waste reduction, process efficiency, and throughput improvements. Champion and sustain 5S standards across all manufacturing areas. Facilitate Kaizen ...

Manufacturing Manager

Newark, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred. • Experience supporting complex electromechanical assemblies and regulated manufacturing environments. • Knowledge of ISO 9001 and ...

Manufacturing Manager

Fremont, CA · On-site

$116K - $197K/yr

Drive continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other operational excellence methodologies. * Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement ...

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Manufacturing Manager

Fremont, CA · On-site

$116K - $197K/yr

Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies. * Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities. * Excellent communication and ...

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Lean Manufacturing information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$78.5K

$99.7K

How much do lean manufacturing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for lean manufacturing in California is $78,480.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $87,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lean manufacturing job?

A Lean Manufacturing job focuses on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing production processes in a manufacturing environment. Professionals in this field use Lean principles, such as Kaizen and Just-in-Time (JIT), to streamline operations and enhance productivity. Roles may include Lean Engineers, Continuous Improvement Managers, or Process Analysts, all working to implement cost-saving strategies and improve quality. These jobs often require expertise in problem-solving, process mapping, and data analysis to drive operational excellence.

What are common challenges faced by professionals in lean manufacturing roles?

Professionals in Lean Manufacturing often encounter challenges such as resistance to change from team members, balancing productivity with quality, and sustaining continuous improvement initiatives. Adapting existing processes to new Lean methods can require strong collaboration and clear communication across departments. Additionally, prioritizing improvement projects and maintaining momentum can be demanding in fast-paced manufacturing settings. Overcoming these challenges provides valuable experience and prepares professionals for leadership roles in operational excellence.

What does a lean manufacturing do?

A lean manufacturing professional focuses on improving production efficiency by reducing waste, streamlining processes, and enhancing quality. They analyze workflows, implement continuous improvement methods like Kaizen, and often use tools such as value stream mapping to optimize operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the lean manufacturing position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Lean Manufacturing, you need a solid background in production processes, process improvement methodologies, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with Lean tools like 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, and Six Sigma certifications are often required, along with experience using ERP or manufacturing software. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills are essential for facilitating change and working with cross-functional teams. These competencies are vital to effectively drive efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure consistent product quality in manufacturing environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lean Manufacturing jobs in California? The most popular types of Lean Manufacturing jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lean Manufacturing jobs? Cities in California with the most Lean Manufacturing job openings:
Infographic showing various Lean Manufacturing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,480 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Manufacturing Engineer (Lean/Automation)

Supermicro

San Jose, CA • On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Req ID: 28685
About Supermicro:

Supermicro is a Top Tier provider of advanced server, storage, and networking solutions for Data Center, Cloud Computing, Enterprise IT, Hadoop/ Big Data, Hyperscale, HPC and IoT/Embedded customers worldwide. We are the #5 fastest growing company among the Silicon Valley Top 50 technology firms. Our unprecedented global expansion has provided us with the opportunity to offer a large number of new positions to the technology community. We seek talented, passionate, and committed engineers, technologists, and business leaders to join us.

Job Summary:

Supermicro is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer (Lean/Automation) to support lean manufacturing efforts, with a focus on hands-on production automation enhancement, defect analysis, and process improvements in our server assembly lines to aid in developing our AI factory. The candidate will implement lean tools to optimize operations, isolate issues, and collaborate for quality enhancements in this dynamic setting

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

* Conduct daily failure analysis on defective server assemblies using lean methodologies, including root cause identification with AOI and other automated inspection tools, and execute tests to validate fixes to support AI infrastructure production.

* Implement production automation enhancements, such as integrating PLCs, robotics, sensors, SCADA systems, and AOI to streamline server assembly, tray/subassembly, and rack integration processes.

* Lead Kaizen events and apply lean tools (5S, VSM, Kanban, SMED) to optimize workflows, reduce cycle times, and enhance efficiency in AI factory environments, including liquid cooling and high-speed cabling.

* Work with R&D and QA teams to diagnose defects, implement Engineering Change Orders (ECO), model conversions, and scripting/batch files for automated testing and reporting in server production.

* Perform visual inspections, functional tests, and process optimizations using Six Sigma principles to improve quality control and meet production schedules for AI infrastructure.

* Follow ISO guidelines to promote industrial work safety, quality, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability in all activities.

* Provide reports for production management on quality reviews, defect trends, and lean improvement impacts, with emphasis on preparing for AI factory metrics.

* Willing to do assigned tasks requested by the company and support management to achieve business targets, including occasional beyond-regular-hours assistance.

Qualifications:

* BS/MS in Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, or related field preferred; minimum 2 years of work experience in production or industrial settings, with focus on server troubleshooting and automation.

* Hands-on experience with production automation enhancement, AOI, and inspection/test coverage for server assemblies; familiarity with PLC programming, HMI, and network protocols (Modbus, OPC UA).

* Able to read and understand Bills of Material, schematics, and data sheets; holding relevant IPC certifications is advantageous.

* Proficiency in lean tools (Six Sigma, 5S, Kaizen) and technical instruments like oscilloscopes, multimeters, or diagnostic software for root cause analysis in automated environments.

* Basic or familiar with Windows and Linux operating systems; experience developing scripts for process optimization.

* Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving abilities; good communication skills in English, both written and verbal.

* Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple tasks, and provide flexible support as needed.

* Experience or knowledge in AI infrastructures for AI factory operations as a major plus to help build our capabilities; junior positions available for candidates interested in lean manufacturing careers with emphasis on automation and server quality improvement.

Salary Range

$90,000 - $110,000

The salary offered will depend on several factors, including your location, level, education, training, specific skills, years of experience, and comparison to other employees already in this role. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation, such as participation in bonus and equity award programs.

EEO Statement

Supermicro is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity in our employee population. It is the policy of Supermicro to provide equal opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or special disabled veteran, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.