Lean Construction Manager

Hoar•Birmingham, AL

12d•Onsite

About The Position

The Lean Construction Manager serves as an embedded partner to the project team on a high-impact, complex construction project, bringing proven field experience in applying Lean principles to planning, coordination, and day-to-day execution. This role is focused on coaching, facilitation, and capability building, helping project leaders, superintendents, and trade partners apply Lean thinking to planning, coordination, and problem-solving activities. The Lean Construction Manager operates directly within the project environment. The intent is to strengthen flow, collaboration, and reliability of work through hands-on support, while reinforcing a consistent Lean mindset aligned with company standards and values. The Lean Construction Manager’s influence is built on trust, credibility, and collaboration. Success is measured by improved engagement, consistency of Lean practices, and the team’s growing ownership of Lean thinking.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field is preferred but not required. Equivalent field experience applying Lean principles in construction environments will be considered in lieu of a degree.
Background in construction operations, with experience on complex projects such as data centers, healthcare, or large-scale commercial work, 5 or more years of applied construction experience with demonstrated Lean involvement preferred.
Formal Lean training or certification (such as AGC Lean Construction Education Program or similar) is a plus.
Proven, hands-on experience applying Lean practices in the field supporting and leading Lean Construction principles, including facilitating planning sessions and supporting teams through real project constraints.
Working knowledge of the Last Planner System and collaborative planning methods.
Strong facilitation and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence without authority.
Valid Driver's License required

Nice To Haves

Formal Lean training or certification (such as AGC Lean Construction Education Program or similar) is a plus.

Responsibilities

Support the project team in the consistent use of Lean practices, including pull planning, make-ready planning, constraint identification, and commitment management.
Facilitate planning sessions and retrospectives in partnership with project leadership.
Coach team members and trade partners on Lean principles through observation, dialogue, and real-time problem-solving.
Maintain a regular presence in the field to observe workflow, coordination, and handoffs.
Assist superintendents and foremen in identifying opportunities to improve reliability, reduce rework, and stabilize production.
Support trade partner onboarding by reinforcing expectations related to planning, collaboration, and respect for commitments.
Reinforce a learning-focused environment where teams reflect on outcomes and identify improvements.
Help surface and develop emerging Lean champions within the project team and trade partners.
Share lessons learned and effective practices with the Director of Lean Construction to support broader organizational learning.
Coordinate closely with project leadership to ensure Lean support aligns with project priorities and constraints.
Act as a connector between the project team and the broader Lean network, including Lean POCs and regional representatives.
Communicate clearly and respectfully, reinforcing Lean as a support function rather than a compliance activity.