Lean Engineer

About Us:

SMC, Ltd. is a globally recognized premium supplier to the medical market with locations throughout the world. People committed to speed, technology, and exceptional performance are the cornerstone of our organization. Comprised of dedicated people and decades of manufacturing experience, we have continued to experience strong growth and currently have outstanding career opportunities for equally dedicated people.

We currently have an exciting opportunity in our Molding department for a Lean Leader at our Devens, MA location. 

Responsible for effective implementation and management of lean tools, systems, and principles across site operations.  Interacts with all levels of personnel throughout the manufacturing facility in the development and deployment of lean methodologies. Provides hands on expertise, leadership, assistance, mentorship, and recommendations across the organization.  Requirements include an applicable B.S. degree or equivalent experience successfully applying lean manufacturing techniques manufacturing and transactional processes. 

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• The fundamental purpose of this position is to lead initiatives to improve efficiency, quality, and productivity in all aspects of the organization's operations. This position involves the implementation and supervision of strategies and processes to promote a culture of continuous improvement and ensure the delivery of exceptional results in terms of operational performance through methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, among others.

• Strategy Development 

  • Collaborate with senior management to implement operational excellence strategies aligned with organizational goals and industry best practices.
  • Implement continuous improvement strategies using Lean methodologies, Six Sigma and other operational excellence tools.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement at all levels of the organization.

• Project Management: 

  • Lead continuous improvement projects in all functional areas of the organization, identifying optimization opportunities and coordinating cross-functional teams to implement effective solutions.

• Implementation of Methodologies: / Innovation and Continuous Improvement 

  • Apply methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma and Kaizen to eliminate waste, reduce variability and improve operational efficiency in key processes.
  • Identify and implement new technologies and methods to improve productivity and operational efficiency.
  • Facilitate Kaizen sessions, Gemba walk events and other improvement dynamics.
  • Coordinate internal audits of processes and management systems.

• Data Analysis: 

  • Use analytical tools and cutting-edge technologies to collect, analyze, and present relevant data on operational performance, identifying trends, patterns, and areas for improvement that support informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
  • Prepare and submit detailed reports on the operational performance and results of improvement projects.

• Change Management: 

  • Facilitate the adoption of organizational and cultural changes needed to drive operational excellence, providing training, communication, and support at all levels of the organization. 

• Talent Development: 

  • Oversee and develop the operational excellence team, providing guidance, training, and resources to foster high performance and career growth.
  • Execute training programs for employees in continuous improvement methodologies and operational excellence.

• Interdepartmental Relations: 

  • Collaborate closely with other departments and functions to identify opportunities for improvement and ensure the effective integration of engineering initiatives across all areas of the organization.
  • Establish and maintain effective relationships with customers, suppliers, and other key stakeholders to ensure smooth collaboration and project success.

•   Lead and implement Lean and continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing processes.

    Conduct value stream mapping, time studies, and process flow analyses to identify and eliminate non-value-added activities.

    Facilitate Kaizen events, 5S programs, and root cause problem-solving sessions.

    Develop and maintain standardized work, work instructions, and visual management systems.

    Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Production, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Engineering) to drive process optimization and cost reduction.

    Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as OEE, yield, cycle time, and defect rates.

    Support new product introduction (NPI) by ensuring efficient production layout, material flow, and equipment utilization.

    Train and coach employees at all levels on Lean principles and continuous improvement culture.

    Participate in safety and quality improvement initiatives to ensure compliance with regulatory and company standards.

    Analyze production data to identify trends, root causes, and improvement opportunities

• Proven experience in implementing Lean Manufacturing tools such as:
• 5S, Kaizen, SMED, Kanban, Poka-Yoke
• Value Stream Mapping (VSM)
• Standard Work and Visual Management
• Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and Problem-Solving (A3, PDCA)
• Knowledge of Six Sigma methodology (Green Belt or higher preferred).
•  Strong analytical, project management, and facilitation skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Proficiency in tools such as MS Office, AutoCAD, and statistical analysis software (e.g., Minitab).

Essential Qualifications:

• Demonstrates the ability to lead and motivate teams to achieve business goals.
• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field preferred.  
• Performance mindset and a passion to improve people, processes and tools.
• Experience applying lean tools, systems, and principles.
• Excellent communication.

At SMC Ltd. we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process. 

SMC Ltd. is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V; this organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.

All applicants must be authorized to work in the US

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