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Lean Manufacturing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

New

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

New

Manufacturing Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Supports lean manufacturing process improvement projects * Support design of custom packaging. * Support manufacturing and coordination, execution and operations process development * Provides ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Dublin, CA · On-site

$82K - $105K/yr

The role focuses on Lean transformation, industrial engineering practices, line balancing, process improvement, factory optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Lead Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives, including Kaizen events, standard work development, process optimization, and waste reduction * Support PFMEA, Process Hazard ...

Showing results 21-40

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 10, 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 Manager

Ichor Systems

Fremont, CA • On-site

$116K - $197K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Ichor Systems rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description


Ichor Systems is seeking an experienced and results-driven Manufacturing Manager to lead day-to-day production operations at our Fremont facility. This role is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective manufacture of high-quality products while meeting customer delivery requirements and business objectives. This role is 100% on-site.
The Manufacturing Manager will lead production teams, drive operational excellence initiatives, optimize resources, and partner closely with Engineering, Quality, Planning, Supply Chain, and Customer Program Management to achieve production goals and continuous improvement targets.
Responsibilities
  • Manage daily manufacturing operations to ensure safety, quality, delivery, and productivity objectives are achieved.
  • Lead and develop supervisors and production personnel in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
  • Monitor production schedules and capacity plans to ensure on-time delivery of customer orders.
  • Partner with Planning, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Quality teams to resolve production issues and improve operational performance.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives utilizing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other operational excellence methodologies.
  • Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to improve efficiency, quality, and throughput.
  • Ensure compliance with all company policies, safety regulations, and quality standards.
  • Manage labor planning, staffing levels, training, performance management, and employee development activities.
  • Support new product introductions and production ramp activities.
  • Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve productivity, and optimize manufacturing processes.
  • Lead root cause analysis and corrective action efforts related to quality and operational challenges.
  • Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Business, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
  • 5+ years of manufacturing leadership experience, with at least 3 years in a management role.
  • Experience in semiconductor, capital equipment, precision machining, contract manufacturing, or related industries preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of manufacturing operations, production planning, quality systems, and supply chain processes.
  • Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office applications.
    Preferred Qualifications
  • Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma certification.
  • Experience working in ERP (specifically MRP) & PLM systems; Oracle, SAP and Agile preferred.
  • Experience in ISO-regulated manufacturing environments.
  • Knowledge of semiconductor equipment manufacturing and complex assembly operations.
    Key Competencies
  • Leadership and Team Development
  • Operational Excellence
  • Strategic Thinking
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Customer Focus
  • Decision Making
  • Change Management
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration

For candidates in CA: The pay range for this position is $116,300 - $197,700, exempt, per year.
Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional job-related factors, including knowledge, skills, experience, tenure, and relevant education or training. The pay scale is subject to change depending on business needs. Your recruiter can share more about the specific range for your location during the hiring process.
About Us
Ichor is an experienced leader in the critical subsystems and turnkey process equipment marketplace. Our capabilities enable the design and creation of a complete outsourced solution ranging from product concept to turnkey manufacturing to legacy service.
Ichor offers world-class process engineering, value added manufacturing, materials management and testing capabilities. Our 1500+ employees are strategically located to provide our customers with the highest level of customer service and support from our program management, sales, engineering, and executive management teams.
Our continued expansion of capabilities in South East Asia better aligns our production facilities with our customers' supply chain strategies. This further enables our expansion into new products and markets.
Ichor is headquartered in Fremont, California with manufacturing locations in Oregon, Texas, Singapore, Malaysia and the UK. Our sales and engineering office is strategically located in Silicon Valley, California.

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