How does it feel to work on a team driven to make a big impact? Empowering.
The BAE Systems site in Aiken, SC is seeking a seasoned Continuous Improvement Engineer. In this role as a senior-level Continuous Improvement Engineer, you will help develop and sustain a lean culture using various Lean tools with a focus on achieving world-class safety and manufacturing performance. You will perform all aspects of Continuous Improvement (CI) activities, driven by business needs and company strategies/objectives.
Business Transformation Initiatives
- Assist in facilitating end-to-end Lean and Six Sigma transformation projects, including planning, implementation, and evaluation phases.
- Collaborate with cross-functional team members to identify improvement opportunities and develop comprehensive Lean and Six Sigma strategies aligned with organizational goals.
- Be accountable for project identification, prioritization, and achievement by applying the models, methods, and standards available, including Visual Management Systems, KPI Metric boards, and tools aligned with plant, department, and program objectives using a "Go and See" approach.
- Support in developing and sustaining a culture of continuous improvement using various CI tools with a focus on achieving world-class safety and manufacturing performance.
Process Optimization
- Analyze existing processes, identify inefficiencies, and implement lean methodologies to streamline workflows, reduce waste, and enhance productivity.
- Utilize tools such as value stream mapping, Kaizen events, TPM, and 5S to drive process improvements.
Change Management
- Act as a change agent to foster a culture of continuous improvement within the organization.
- Provide guidance and support to stakeholders at all levels to ensure buy-in and successful implementation of lean initiatives.
Training and Development
- Support and help deliver training programs on lean principles, tools, and techniques to build capability and empower associates to drive improvement at all levels of the organization.
- Teach and coach Lean leadership concepts and behaviors, including servant leadership and Lean daily management routines, including the use of visual management.
Performance Monitoring and Reporting
- Help establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of CI initiatives. Monitor progress and track performance metrics.
- Apply project management tools to facilitate all projects within scope (Plant/Department or Area) while ensuring timeline and target accomplishment (which includes savings or additional impact calculation and approvals, project documentation, and 12 months of tracking for sustainability).
Continuous Learning
- Stay abreast of industry best practices, emerging trends, and new technologies related to lean methodologies and continuous improvement.
- Apply insights to refine existing processes and drive innovation within the organization.
- Continuously focus on capabilities development and certifications related to CI knowledge and application while helping the development of others.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
- Typically requires a Bachelor's Degree in an Engineering or Science or related discipline with four years of related experience, or the overall equivalent
- Experienced in Lean and Continuous Improvement concepts, systems, methodologies and tools
- Lean & Six Sigma certification
- Experience with Quality, Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechanical engineering departments and activities
- Proven Project Management skills
- Requires innovative problem solving experience with A3, 8D, PDCA, 6 Sigma, Shanin, etc., and systematic thinking
- Highly effective communicator, both written and spoken
- Training experience, both in one-to-one and group settings
- Experience presenting material and providing mentoring and coaching
- Computer experience to include Microsoft Office Suite, Minitab, Visio, or similar applications
Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
- Toyota Production System exposure
- Lean Transformation experience
- Certified Kaizen Facilitator
- Certified Lean Six Sigma Green / Black Belt
- Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical Engineer
- Experience with Digital CI tools
- Knowledge of Sustainable Manufacturing Practices
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $88189 - $149922
Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems, Inc.
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference.
The Platforms & Services (P&S) sector under BAE Systems, Inc does the big stuff: the armored combat vehicles, naval guns, missile launchers, and ship repair...just to name a few. Our employees take pride in the work they do and why they do it. They are on the front lines every day, building our products to protect the lives of those who serve. We may be biased, but we think P&S does some of the coolest work around, and we think you will too.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Science, or a related discipline, or equivalent overall experience
- Four years of related experience, or equivalent overall experience
- Experience with Lean and continuous improvement concepts, systems, methodologies, and tools
- Lean and Six Sigma certification
- Experience with Quality, Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering departments and activities
- Proven project management skills
- Innovative problem-solving experience using A3, 8D, PDCA, Six Sigma, Shanin, or similar methods
- Systematic thinking and strong written and verbal communication skills
- Training experience in individual and group settings
- Experience presenting material and providing mentoring and coaching
- Computer experience with Microsoft Office Suite, Minitab, Visio, or similar applications
- Toyota Production System exposure
- Lean transformation experience
- Certified Kaizen Facilitator credential
- Certified Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt
- Manufacturing, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering background
- Experience with digital continuous improvement tools
- Knowledge of sustainable manufacturing practices
BAE Systems, Inc. Compensation & Benefits Highlights
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Retirement Support — Retirement benefits stand out with a 401(k) savings plan and company matching, emphasizing long-term financial security. This area is consistently positioned as one of the stronger components of the package.
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Parental & Family Support — Family programs are notably broad, including paid parental leave, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, dependent‑care accounts, and child‑ and elder‑care resources. In the U.S., up to 10 subsidized days of backup care per year further support caregivers.
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Healthcare Strength — Health coverage spans medical, dental, and vision options alongside HSAs/FSAs, mental‑health support, and an Employee Assistance Program. The breadth of offerings provides solid baseline protection across common healthcare needs.
BAE Systems, Inc. Insights
What We Do
Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it’s what we do. As a leading aerospace, defense, and security company, we work together to deliver a full range of products and services for air, land, space, and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. How we work is rooted in purpose – a purpose to protect those who protect us, to unite our community of colleagues and customers, and to drive forward the growth and development of our exceptional team members. It's where purpose connects.
Why Work With Us
We believe your career should be filled with innovation and discovery. And that's exactly what you'll find at BAE Systems. As you work to develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills and expand knowledge. On a sharp and collaborative team, you will be challenged – and supported – at every turn.
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BAE Systems, Inc. Teams
BAE Systems, Inc. Offices
Hybrid Workspace
Employees engage in a combination of remote and on-site work.
As the work place continues to evolve, so do we. Remote and hybrid opportunities are available at BAE Systems depending on the nature of the role. Check your job requisition to learn more.








