Continuous Improvement Lead

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and results-oriented Continuous Improvement Leader to drive the deployment of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies across our Austin TX, Manufacturing Hub. This role is central to fostering a culture of operational excellence, supporting cross-functional teams, and delivering measurable improvements in cost, quality, and efficiency.

The Continuous Improvement Lead will be responsible for the development and execution of a common strategy for continuous improvement, while also enabling long-term cultural transformation across the organization. This position plays a key leadership role in training, mentoring, and guiding teams through structured improvement efforts.
Position is 1st shift-9/80 with every other Friday off.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Deployment

• Develop and implement the annual Continuous Improvement Plan in alignment with business objectives and the Hoshin Planning process.

• Partner with manufacturing and functional leaders to assess improvement opportunities and define actionable strategies.

• Promote a consistent and structured approach to continuous improvement across all supported areas.

Lean Six Sigma Implementation

• Lead training efforts for teams at all levels in Lean Enterprise principles, focusing on practical application in manufacturing environments.

• Drive a "train the trainer" model to build internal capability and promote sustainable Lean practices.

• Manage a robust pipeline of improvement initiatives, ensuring prioritization and alignment with business goals.

Operational Excellence & Performance Management

• Facilitate Kaizen events and guide teams through structured problem-solving to achieve sustainable results.

• Deliver measurable cost savings and productivity improvements through initiatives such as cycle time reduction, setup time minimization, and process standardization.

• Implement Lean Daily Management tools and performance metrics to improve visibility, accountability, and real-time decision-making.

Change Management & Communication

• Lead change management activities to ensure smooth adoption of new processes and tools.

• Communicate progress and impact of initiatives across all levels of the organization, fostering transparency and engagement.

Financial Analysis & Tracking

• Collaborate with Finance to quantify the impact of Lean and Six Sigma projects.

• Track and report on performance metrics consistent with Lean Thinking and continuous improvement principles.

Required Education, Experience, & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Technology, Business, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of direct experience leading Lean initiatives in a manufacturing or operations environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in Lean/Toyota Production System (TPS) tools and methods, including:
• Value Stream Mapping
• Standard Work
• Stand-Up Meetings
• Metric Board Deployment
• Proven track record of delivering quantifiable cost savings and performance improvements.
• Strong facilitation, coaching, and leadership skills with the ability to influence across all levels.

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills

• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification (preferred).
• Lean Daily Management
• 5S and Visual Management
• Kaizen Event Leadership
• Experience working across multiple sites or within a complex manufacturing organization.
• Background in high-reliability manufacturing environments.

Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $118095 - $200762

Please note:

This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience.

Employee Benefits:

At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including…