Continuous Improvement Engineer

Position Summary:

Who we are: AGSE is a recognized leader in the design and manufacture of aerospace ground support equipment, serving the world’s top aerospace organizations. We are in the midst of a cultural transformation, moving from tribal knowledge and manual reactive processes to a data-driven, standardized, and continuously improving operation. This is your chance to join a team that is committed to real change, not just “checking the box” on Lean.

What You’ll Do:
You will be an active partner in driving our transformation—building systems, not just projects. Your focus will be on embedding continuous improvement as a mindset at every level, not just as a set of tools. Your day-to-day will combine process analysis, hands-on problem solving, cross-functional coaching, and project execution, with a direct line to senior leadership.

You won’t just analyze; you’ll implement, teach, and sustain.

Responsibilities:
Essential Duties:

· Lead Improvement Projects: Identify, plan, and execute high-impact Lean, Six Sigma, and digital transformation projects focused on operational bottlenecks (quality escapes, long prep times, inefficient assembly, etc.).

· Drive Standardization: Document tribal knowledge into robust SOPs and work instructions; pilot and roll out digital work instruction tools and visual management boards.

· Coach & Train: Deliver hands-on Lean/CI training for operators, leads, and supervisors, focusing on practical skills (problem solving, process mapping, visual management, mistake-proofing, etc.).

· Data-Driven Action: Design meaningful KPIs, collect and analyze shopfloor data (scrap, rework, cycle times, downtime, OTD, etc.), and implement root cause analysis and countermeasures.

· Champion Digital Tools: Work with AI, automation, and analytics tools (Power Automate, ERP integrations, Excel, Power BI) to move the factory toward a paperless, digitally enabled environment.

· Facilitate Change: Run kaizen events, lead daily/weekly Gemba walks, facilitate feedback loops, and support the development of a true continuous improvement culture.

· Collaborate Across Functions: Partner with Quality, Engineering, Production, and Supply Chain to drive cross-functional initiatives and standardize processes.

· Tackle Real Problems: Address recurring issues like final inspection escapes, part marking accuracy, FOD/scratches, material flow, and inefficiencies in manual-heavy processes.

· Measure and Report Savings: Continuous improvement impacts in terms of dollars saved, hours reduced, and risk mitigated; report out to leadership and stakeholders.

Work Location: Santa Fe Springs, CA. 100% Onsite work. No remote nor hybrid availability for this role.

Expertise:
Knowledge & Skills:

· 3+ years of hands-on experience in a Lean/Continuous Improvement, manufacturing, or operations engineering role.

· Strong working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing (5S, Value Stream Mapping, SMED, Poka-Yoke, Visual Management), Six Sigma (DMAIC, root cause analysis), and process mapping.

· Track record of driving real improvements, measurable cost savings, cycle time reductions, quality improvements.

· Experience creating and implementing Standard Work, SOPs, and operator-level training.

· Familiarity or experience with digital tools for shop floor (Power BI, Excel, Power Automate, digital checklists, etc.).

· Excellent communication, coaching, and facilitation skills; able to work at all levels from shop floor to leadership.

· Highly self-motivated, able to work with minimal supervision, and thrives in a dynamic, hands-on environment.

· Certification in Lean, Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt), or equivalent experience is highly preferred.

Nice to Have

· Experience supporting or leading ERP transitions (Epicor, Global Shop, etc.).

· Exposure to AI, automation, or advanced manufacturing technologies.

· Background in aerospace, heavy fabrication, or complex assembly environments.

· Experience implementing digital work instruction systems or MES.

· Knowledge of ISO 9001/AS9100 QMS requirements.

Required:

· Bachelor’s degree in:
Bachelor’s degree in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering or related technical field.

· Manufacturing engineering…