Lean Technologist

Polaris Inc.•Huntsville, AL

About The Position

The Lean Technologist leads Lean Manufacturing and Polaris Production System (PPS) improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations. The role partners with production, quality, engineering, material handling, and support teams to identify waste, improve process flow, strengthen daily management systems, and build problem-solving capabilities. The position facilitates continuous improvement activities, coaches team members and leaders in Lean practices, and applies structured problem-solving methods to improve performance across key business metrics. The role offers an opportunity to influence operational performance while developing a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. Polaris states that this position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship. Former employees must be eligible for rehire, and current employees must be in good standing.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience in manufacturing, Lean implementation, industrial engineering, operations excellence, or continuous improvement.
Demonstrated experience leading Kaizen events, implementing standard work, improving process flow, and coaching teams in practical problem-solving methods.
Strong working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and production systems, including continuous improvement methodologies and daily management practices.
Experience applying Lean tools such as value stream mapping, standardized work, visual management, 5S, mistake-proofing, SMED, and root cause analysis.
Ability to analyze manufacturing performance metrics and use data to drive decision-making and process improvements.
Strong facilitation, coaching, communication, and cross-functional influencing skills.
Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related technical field is preferred.
Position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship.
Former employees must be eligible for rehire; current employees must be in good standing.

Nice To Haves

Experience in high-volume assembly, automotive, powersports, heavy equipment, or similar manufacturing environments.
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt, Toyota Production System training, or similar Lean certification.

Responsibilities

Lead Lean Manufacturing and Polaris Production System improvement initiatives across production, quality, engineering, material handling, and support functions.
Analyze manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve safety, quality, delivery, cost, productivity, ergonomics, and team member engagement.
Facilitate Kaizen events, rapid improvement workshops, and cross-functional problem-solving activities to drive measurable business results.
Support value stream mapping and future-state planning to improve material flow, information flow, and process stability.
Coach leaders, supervisors, and team members in Lean methodologies, including Gemba observation, A3 thinking, PDCA, 5 Whys, and root cause problem solving.
Partner with operations teams to establish and strengthen daily management systems, process confirmation routines, and performance tracking processes.
Implement and support Lean tools and practices, including Kanban, pull systems, point-of-use material strategies, 5S, mistake-proofing, SMED, and standard work.
Measure, analyze, and communicate improvement results using manufacturing metrics such as safety, quality, delivery, cost, productivity, first-pass yield, inventory, and lead time.
Promote a culture of continuous improvement, disciplined execution of standards, and respect for people throughout the organization.