Lean Manufacturing Specialist

The Lean Manufacturing Specialist is responsible for leading Lean projects and continuous improvement activities across the Schréder Group, covering both manufacturing operations and staff functions. The role drives the implementation of Lean methodologies, supports process optimization initiatives, and promotes a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization. The position also includes training teams in Lean Six Sigma concepts at White Belt and Yellow Belt level.

Key Responsabilities:

Lean Project Leadership

• Lead improvement projects using both Kaizen and DMAIC methodologies, from project charter to control plan, and present progress to sponsors and process owners.
• Map current and future state Value Stream Maps (VSM) and calculate takt time, cycle time, lead time, inventory levels, and line balancing.
• Conduct Gemba walks and collect real-world data to perform root cause analysis using Ishikawa diagrams, 5 Whys, Pareto analysis, and other SPC tools.
• Design measurement plans and validate root causes with data before proposing solutions.
• Lead 8D and PFMEA analyses for quality issues, coordinating production, quality, and engineering teams.
• Redesign layouts and work cells (continuous flow, FIFO, supermarkets, Kanban) and support their implementation.
• Quantify the impact of each project (hours, FTEs, lead time, cost) using a traceable model validated by Finance or the relevant stakeholder.
• Manage project action plans, milestones, and risks.

Continuous Improvement Activities

• Organize and facilitate Kaizen events and rapid improvement workshops on the shop floor.
• Implement and audit 5S, visual management, standardized work, Andon systems, and skills matrices.
• Support Yellow Belt teams and Lean Champions through weekly follow-up meetings, removing roadblocks and ensuring adequate focus on improvement activities.
• Define and maintain process and project KPIs and dashboards.
• Identify additional improvement opportunities and propose them as new projects.
• Share best practices across Schréder Group plants and facilities.

Lean Training

• Deliver classroom-based Lean Manufacturing and Lean Six Sigma training programs (White Belt and Yellow Belt).
• Conduct training sessions ranging from short workshops to four-day programs, combining theory, practical exercises, and real company case studies.
• Adapt training content and depth to different audiences, including operators, supervisors, engineers, and management.
• Develop and maintain training materials, assess learning outcomes, and measure participant satisfaction.
• Mentor participants throughout their certification projects.

Reporting and Communication

• Prepare project progress reports and executive presentations for sponsors and management using verified data.
• Draft meeting minutes, action plans, and follow-up communications.
• Maintain up-to-date project and training records and share status updates with the Continuous Improvement Manager.

• Education: Degree in Industrial Engineering, Industrial Organization Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or another related technical discipline.
• Experience: 5+ years of experience in Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence, or Process Engineering within an industrial environment, with proven experience leading projects autonomously.
• Certification: Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification as a minimum requirement.
• Methodologies: Practical expertise in VSM, DMAIC, 5S, SMED, Kaizen, Kanban, A3 problem solving, 8D, and PFMEA. Knowledge of Scrum methodologies is desirable.
• Data Analysis: Basic statistical knowledge, advanced Excel skills, and experience using Minitab or similar analytical tools.
• Training & Facilitation: Experience delivering training courses and facilitating workshops, including the development of training materials.
• Languages: C1 level English, both written and spoken, with the ability to deliver training sessions and present to management.
• Availability: Willingness to travel and work on-site at Schréder Group facilities.

COMPETENCIES:

• Results Orientation: Ability to translate improvement initiatives into measurable business outcomes.
• Analytical Rigor: Ability to validate data against real operational and shopfloor conditions.
• Training & Facilitation Skills: Ability to clearly explain complex concepts and effectively engage participants throughout training sessions and workshops.
• Leadership Without Authority: Ability to influence, align, and secure commitment from teams outside of direct reporting lines.
• Change Management: Ability to anticipate resistance, facilitate adoption, and communicate effectively with stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Autonomy & Organization: Ability to prioritize tasks, manage workload, and solve problems with minimal supervision.
• Executive Communication: Ability to synthesize information clearly and communicate effectively in both Spanish and English.

PREFERRED:

• Experience in luminaire assembly, electrical equipment manufacturing, electronic products, or related industries.
• Knowledge of SMT and PCBA processes, including printing, pick-and-place, reflow, optical inspection, and testing.
• Knowledge of product validation testing, such as IP protection testing, as well as electrical regulations and CE marking requirements.
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification and knowledge of TPM, WCM, and Hoshin Kanri.
• Interest in Artificial Intelligence applications and Process Mining.

Respect is one of our Values. Inclusivity is part of who we are, so we encourage applications from all backgrounds, communities and industries and are committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills, experiences and abilities.