Lean Rapid Continuous Improvement (RCI) Specialist

Job Description:

Position Overview

The Lean Rapid Continuous Improvement Specialist is a hands-on, individual contributor responsible for driving continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations. This role partners closely with production, engineering, supply chain, and site leadership to identify inefficiencies, eliminate waste, and improve overall performance in the production of steel components and solar tracker systems.

The Lean Engineer II serves as a subject matter expert in Lean methodologies, leading rapid improvement efforts that directly impact safety, quality, delivery, and cost. This role operates with a high level of independence and influence, without primary responsibility for formal people management.

Key Responsibilities

Continuous Improvement & Lean Execution

Lead rapid continuous improvement (RCI) initiatives focused on productivity, throughput, waste reduction, and cost savings

Identify and prioritize improvement opportunities across steel fabrication, stamping, assembly, and production workflows

Apply Lean methodologies (Kaizen, 5S, 3P, Value Stream Mapping, DFM, SMED, TPM, standard work) to drive measurable results .

Facilitate Rapid Continuous Improvement e vents and rapid improvement workshops across the manufacturing site (12-24 per year minimum).

Train all production management and production personnel on lean principles using interactive training events.

Operational Optimization

Analyze production data, KPIs, and process performance to identify inefficiencies and drive improvement actions .

Develop new counterbalancing KPIs to link production, scrap, quality, safety, and attendance . Then work with IT to implement an incentive system that drive universal performance of these KPIs .

Develop and implement solutions to reduce scrap, improve cycle times, and optimize equipment utilization

Support flow optimization, line balancing, and layout improvements within production environments

Partner with operations to improve material flow and reduce bottlenecks across the value stream

Value Stream & Process Design

Conduct value stream mapping to identify current state gaps and design future state workflows

Establish and maintain standard work and process documentation to ensure repeatability and consistency

Support new product introductions and production scaling from a process optimization standpoint

Cross-Functional Influence

Partner with Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality, and Engineering teams to drive aligned improvement initiatives

Influence operational decision-making through data-driven insights and continuous improvement practices

Serve as a key liaison between leadership and production teams on improvement priorities

Training & Culture Development

Train and coach supervisors, operators, and site leaders on Lean principles and continuous improvement tools

Promote a culture of accountability, problem-solving, and continuous improvement across the site

Support development of daily management systems and visual management tools

Performance Measurement & Reporting

Define, track, and report KPIs related to operational efficiency, waste reduction, and productivity

Monitor progress of improvement initiatives and ensure sustainability of results

Provide regular updates to site leadership on performance and impact

Qualifications

Required

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering , Operations, Manufacturing, or related field or equivalent Lean experience

5–10+ years of experience in Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or operations within a manufacturing environment

Proven experience leading Kaizen events and implementing Lean methodologies

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate data into actionable improvements

Experience working in hands-on steel manufacturing environments (steel, fabrication, high-volume production preferred)

AutoCAD and SolidWorks experience.

Must have experience in steel manufacturing such as stamping, rollforming , tube mills, slitting, or steel mills.

Preferred

Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred)

Experience in steel fabrication, stamping, or solar / renewable manufacturing environments

Experience with ERP systems and production data analytics

Strong facilitation and influence skills across cross-functional teams

Machine design experience.

Stamping experience.

Working Conditions

Primarily based on the manufacturing floor with direct engagement in production processes

Requires hands-on involvement in operations, equipment, and workflow optimization

May require extended hours or off-shift support during major improvement events

Summary

The Lean / RCI Specialist plays a critical role in driving operational excellence across manufacturing operations. This position is ideal for a highly motivated, hands-on professional who thrives in dynamic production environments and is passionate about improving performance through Lean principles and continuous improvement.

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At Array Tech, Inc., we strive to lead with our culture, and believe that our people are a key enabler of our future state. Our total rewards philosophy supports Array’s ability to attract, develop, and retain our employees. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and wellness programs that align with the local markets where we do business.

Array Tech, Inc. offers equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, gender, age, creed, sex, religion, national origin, disability (physical or mental), marital status, citizenship, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression, or any other legally protected status.