Sr. Manufacturing Engineer
Job Title: Sr. Manufacturing Engineer Remote Allowed: No Location: Rockbridge, VA Salary Range: $35 - $40 Per Hour Job Type: Contract Position Description: This role will collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities, develop improvement strategies, and implement sustainable solutions that align with company goals in safety, quality, delivery, and cost. Key Responsibilities: • Lead and support Lean Manufacturing initiatives ( Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Waste identification/elimination, Continuous Flow, Material Delivery Systems, sub-assembly, time studies, Kanban/Pull Systems, VA/VE analysis, Heijunka, 5S, Visual & Daily Management.) • Analyze manufacturing processes and workflows to identify inefficiencies and develop data-driven improvement plans. • Serve as the subject matter expert with respect to Lean practices and tools. Develop the playbook/matrix for the application of such tools. • Drive root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective action processes for recurring production issues. • Facilitate cross-functional improvement projects aimed at increasing throughput, reducing downtime, and optimizing space and materials usage. • Work closely with production, quality, engineering, and maintenance teams to implement standardized work practices. • Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and track the impact of continuous improvement activities. • Conduct time studies, line balancing, and capacity analysis for equipment and labor optimization. • Train and mentor frontline employees and supervisors on Lean principles and improvement tools. • Support new equipment and process implementation from a lean and operational efficiency perspective. Required Qualifications: • 5+ years of experience in Lean manufacturing, Manufacturing Engineering or operational excellence within a manufacturing environment. • Proven expertise in Lean, Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt preferred), Kaizen, and other process improvement methodologies. • Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, industrial engineering, and production systems—preferably in HVAC, refrigeration, or related items. • Experience with ERP/MES systems, data analytics tools, and process automation technologies. • Exceptional communication, and facilitation skills within a track record of driving cultural transformation and operational excellence. • Ability to work cross-functionally an influence stakeholders at all events without direct authority. • Proficiency in problem-solving tools such as FMAIC, MEA, SPC, and root cause analysis. Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).