Lean Manager (Operations)

It’s not just about your career or job title… It’s about who you are and the impact you will make on the world. Because whether it’s for each other or our customers, we put People First. When our people come together, we Expand the Possible and continuously look for ways to improve what we create and how we do it. If you are constantly striving to grow, you’re in good company. We are revolutionizing the way the world moves for future generations, and we want someone who is ready to move with us.

We are looking for a proactive and experienced Lean Leader to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence within our Locomotive Assembly Plant. This role will focus on optimizing production processes, improving quality and safety, and fostering a Lean culture across all levels of the plant. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Lean manufacturing and a passion for driving sustainable change in a complex, high-mix assembly environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Lean Strategy & Implementation

• Lead the deployment of Lean principles across the assembly plant, including takt time alignment, line balancing, and flow optimization.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, 5S initiatives, and value stream mapping to identify and eliminate waste.

Production Process Improvement

• Collaborate with production, engineering, and quality teams to improve assembly line efficiency, reduce cycle times, and enhance first-pass yield.
• Support the implementation of standard work, visual management, and error-proofing (poka-yoke) systems.

Coaching & Culture Building

• Train and mentor plant personnel—from operators to leadership—on Lean tools and behaviors.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and problem-solving.

Performance Monitoring

• Define and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC).
• Conduct regular Gemba walks and Lean maturity assessments to ensure progress and sustainability.

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Work closely with supply chain, logistics, maintenance, and engineering teams to ensure end-to-end process alignment.
• Support digital transformation initiatives that enhance Lean visibility and decision-making.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt).
• 5+ years of experience in Lean manufacturing roles, preferably in heavy industry or transportation equipment assembly.
• Demonstrated success in leading Lean transformations in a plant environment.
• Strong analytical, facilitation, and change management skills.
• Proficiency in Lean tools and root cause analysis.
• Must have legal authorization to work in Kazakhstan