Lean Strategist

Ford Motor Company

. Lead lean execution and training across manufacturing, including Lean Academy weeklong classes, Kaizens, and Kaizen report-outs .

Posted 10/2/2026full-timeDearborn • Michigan • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $112,680 - $212,760 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in Lean Manufacturing strategies, including Value Stream Mapping and Kaizen methodologies, while effectively leading cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency and quality in complex manufacturing environments.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Lean Manufacturing StrategiesValue Stream MappingOperations LeadershipLaunch Activities ManagementTeam Performance Management

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Value Stream MappingKaizenLean Maturity Model5SDigitalizationPredictive AI TechnologiesProcess ValidationWorkstation-Readiness Best PracticesLaunch Methodology StandardizationVisual Metrics Management

Soft Skills

LeadershipProblem SolvingCoachingTeam MotivationBuilding Trust

Tools & Technologies

Business Control CentersDigital Zone BoardsManufacturing ITLean Tools Training

Industry Keywords

High-Volume ManufacturingComplex Manufacturing SystemsUnionized Manufacturing EnvironmentOperational ExperienceLaunch Integration

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Assembly

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead lean execution and training across manufacturing, including Lean Academy weeklong classes, Kaizens, and Kaizen report-outs
Conduct Value Stream Mapping workshops and train-the-trainer programs
Develop enterprise-wide Value Stream Mapping experts for plants and departments
Ensure post-workshop actions are taken and closed; attend bi-weekly follow-up meetings
Oversee cross-functional launch planning across engineering, product development, quality, logistics, and manufacturing operations
Implement and evolve Lean Manufacturing strategies, including Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen Bursts, and Lean Maturity Model
Manage digitalization, Business Control Centers, and Digital Zone Boards
Facilitate workshops in 5S, Model Area Development, Business Control Centers, and Lean Tools Training
Collaborate with Digital Manufacturing Systems and Manufacturing IT to design predictive AI technologies for line-side digitization and issue response
Manage station-level visual metrics and progress through structured loop iterations
Serve as the central resource for best practices in launch integration, process validation, and digital tool deployment
Support standardization of launch methodology across Ford’s global manufacturing sites
Drive first-time quality and reduce launch risk through early process validation and physical readiness
Improve time-to-market by eliminating bottlenecks and enforcing workstation-readiness best practices
Lead, mentor, and motivate a team of Lean Strategists
Manage team performance, coaching, feedback, workload, and resource allocation

Requirements

What you’ll need

Associate’s degree or equivalent experience in an engineering or technical field
4+ years of progressive responsibilities and experience in operations leadership
Extensive experience in high-volume, complex, manufacturing environments
Experience successfully leading launch activities in complex manufacturing systems
Demonstrated track record of building trust and rapport with employees and creating positive and healthy cultures
Excellent leadership skills with demonstrated ability to resolve diverse problems
Strong problem solver who can lead effectively under pressure and crisis manage when necessary
Aspiration for continued career growth and new challenges
Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or technical field preferred
Operational and launch experience leading manufacturing processes across multiple areas (body, paint, final assembly, etc.)
Experience working in a fast-paced unionized manufacturing environment
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
Visa sponsorship is not available

Benefits

Comp & perks

Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
Flexible family care days
Paid parental leave
New parent ramp-up programs
Subsidized back-up child care
Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement
Fertility treatments
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members
Management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service
Generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
Paid time off
Option to purchase additional vacation time