Manufacturing Excellence Engineer

Sopra Steria•Kinston, NC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a Manufacturing Excellence Engineer to join our team as an embedded consultant within our aerospace clients’ operations. In this role, you will act as an on-site expert, driving production line transformation through Lean, Six Sigma, and industrial simulation approaches. You will play a key role in optimizing industrial performance, designing efficient production layouts, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives in close collaboration with client operational and engineering teams.

Requirements

3–7 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, production engineering, or operational excellence, ideally in aerospace
Proven experience delivering Lean and/or Six Sigma projects in industrial environments
Experience in production layout design or optimization
Exposure to consulting or client-embedded roles is an asset
Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Industrial, Mechanical, or Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field
Strong knowledge of Lean methodologies and problem-solving tools (VSM, 5S, SMED, Kaizen, 8D, PDCA, Ishikawa)
Good understanding of Six Sigma principles and statistical tools (DMAIC, MSA, SPC)
Experience with flow simulation tools and digital twin solutions
Familiarity with aerospace standards and practices (e.g., EN9100, APQP)
Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD, CATIA) for layout design is an asset
Knowledge of aerospace composite manufacturing processes is a strong advantage
Ability to work autonomously while integrating quickly into client teams
Strong communication and facilitation skills, with experience leading workshops and trainings
Analytical mindset with a results-driven approach
Adaptability in complex, multicultural industrial environments
English (fluent)

Nice To Haves

Lean or Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt) is preferred
French (asset)

Responsibilities

Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean methodologies (VSM, Kaizen, 5S, SMED, waste reduction)
Deliver Six Sigma projects using DMAIC to reduce variability and improve product quality
Define, track, and analyze key performance indicators (OEE, scrap rate, cycle time, WIP) and implement corrective actions
Train and coach shop floor teams on Lean and Six Sigma tools and best practices
Design and optimize production layouts, integrating flow efficiency, safety, and ergonomics
Perform flow simulations to evaluate and validate layout scenarios prior to implementation
Use digital twin and simulation tools to model production lines and anticipate operational impacts
Collaborate with industrial engineering teams to align target architectures with operational requirements
Lead cross-functional improvement projects, coordinating internal and client stakeholders
Track progress and report on milestones, performance improvements, and risks
Produce key deliverables, including functional specifications, workshop outputs, layout designs, and performance analyses