Continuous Improvement Engineer II

The Continuous Improvement Engineer II independently owns manufacturing processes for assigned assemblies or production areas. This role balances quality, schedule, and cost while supporting scalable production of UAV systems. Tasks and responsibilities expected for this role include those captured by lower role specific levels.

This role involves working closely with engineers, production technicians, and operations teams to support multiple programs and value streams.

Key Responsibilities:  

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations  

• Collect and analyze production data to identify and implement process improvements 

• Independently support production issue resolution 

• Develop capacity planning and production planning strategies 

• Lead assembly line, workstation, and facility layout improvement projects 

• Implement and sustain Lean Manufacturing tools and methods such as 5S, standardized work, and kanban systems  

• Facilitate Kaizen events and other root cause analysis activities   

• Lead and drive improvements in material flow design, inventory management, and MES processes  

• Provide Lean training and mentorship for team members on topics such as Toyota Kata, TWI, and overall business process improvement 

• Lead supplier assessments and audits  

• Follow AS9100, safety, and configuration control requirements  

Qualifications:   

• Bachelor’s degree in industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering (or equivalent experience)  

• 2–5 years of industrial, manufacturing, or continuous improvement experience  

• Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and production systems  

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, preferred 

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and methods including flow, layout, assembly, and production equipment 

• Experience leading process improvement projects in a manufacturing environment  

• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools such as Excel, Power BI, Visio, or similar software preferred  

• Working knowledge of structured problem-solving tools, including A3 thinking, root cause analysis, 5 Why’s, Fishbone diagrams, fault tree analysis, and PDCA 

• Working knowledge of statistical analysis and process capability methods, preferred  

• Strong analytical, communication, facilitation, and problem-solving skills  

• Demonstrated leadership and continuous improvement mindset