Lead Process Improvement Engineer - Manufacturing Optimization

Our client is looking for a highly accomplished Lead Process Improvement Engineer to drive significant enhancements in manufacturing operations at their facility in Tampa, Florida, US . This is a hands-on role where you will leverage your expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies to optimize production processes, reduce waste, and enhance overall efficiency. You will lead cross-functional teams, analyze complex operational data, and implement data-driven solutions to solve critical production challenges. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a proven track record of delivering measurable results in fast-paced industrial environments.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, implementation, and sustainment of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives across all production areas.
• Analyze current manufacturing processes to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Develop and execute action plans for process optimization, waste reduction, and cost savings.
• Utilize statistical process control (SPC) and other analytical tools to monitor process performance and drive improvements.
• Facilitate Kaizen events and continuous improvement workshops with cross-functional teams.
• Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and work instructions to document optimized processes.
• Train and mentor plant personnel on Lean principles, problem-solving techniques, and process improvement tools.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Operations departments to ensure seamless integration of improvements.
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to efficiency, quality, cost, and safety, and report on progress.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging technologies in industrial engineering and manufacturing.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field. Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in process improvement, Lean Manufacturing, and Six Sigma roles within a manufacturing environment.
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or Master Black Belt required.
• Demonstrated experience in leading successful improvement projects with quantifiable results.
• Expertise in tools such as Value Stream Mapping (VSM), 5S, Poka-Yoke, SMED, and Root Cause Analysis (RCA).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in statistical software (e.g., Minitab).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and motivate teams.
• Experience in the automotive, aerospace, or CPG manufacturing sectors is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding production environment.

This is a critical role that offers significant visibility and the opportunity to shape the future of our client's manufacturing operations. If you are a results-oriented engineer passionate about operational excellence, we want to hear from you.