Lean Manufacturing Consultant

Overview

Lean Manufacturing Consultant role at Mercedes-Benz Vans, LLC (Charleston, SC).

Job overview

Strategic planning & systematic evaluation operations with an emphasis on establishing sustainable lean manufacturing principles. Observing day-to-day operations with the focus on identifying opportunities for improvement. Define project scopes, develop project plans to improve effectiveness / increase efficiency of the planned / existent manufacturing processes. Performing a variety of other complicated tasks relying on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish plant goals.

Responsibilities

• Leading strategic Lean projects through planning, execution, optimization, and evaluation in close collaboration with the Continuous Improvement Workshop and relevant stakeholders, with the target of continuous improvement (e.g. efficiency, quality, etc.) within manufacturing and/or administrative environments.
• Organize and facilitate planning and clarification workshops for Lean projects, strategic plant projects, and organizational developments. Workshops aim at conducting project reviews in preparation for operational ramp-ups or significant adjustments within the plant organization. Moderating workshops to maintain neutrality.
• Serve as a single point of contact between team members and department leaders of the responsible operational area, ensuring a deep understanding of customer needs for consulting support and conceptual work while driving forward continuous improvement projects and Lean-related business plan initiatives.
• Collaboratively drive and coordinate the design of innovative equipment development solutions (e.g., car sets, handling devices, low-cost automations, poka-yokes) from concept/mockup to final implementation and stabilization, focusing on lean production aids and alignment with responsible parties, customers, and stakeholders.
• Collaboratively conduct Lean Assessments for manufacturing operations with the customer to evaluate compliance with the Mercedes-Benz Production System and identify deficiencies and areas for improvement in preparation for the upcoming business plan cycle.
• Lead cross-functional teams during critical operational challenges (e.g., crisis, taskforce) using Project Management and problem-solving methodologies to achieve rapid operational turnaround and strive for operational excellence.
• Collaborate with other MPS-Offices and operational areas to foster exchanges, benchmarking across VAN/O, passenger cars, external competitors, and various industries to drive continuous improvement and adoption of best practices.
• Identify training needs in Lean Management and execute in coordination with the MPS Training Coordinator and customers.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to create, document and implement process standards in operation.
• Will perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree with a preferred background in manufacturing engineering.
• Minimum 5 years of experience working in an automotive production environment.
• Minimum 2 years of experience applying knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and TPS methodologies.
• Experience using project management, analysis, and communication tools and techniques.

Knowledge and Skills

• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles.
• Experience applying Mercedes Production System (or industry-equivalent TPS) methodologies.
• Lean Consultant / Advisor training or equivalent external credentials.
• Proven written and verbal communication at all levels with good negotiation skills.
• Able to anticipate needs and deliver timely, relevant solutions and actions.
• Advanced knowledge of the Microsoft Office platform (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Thinkcell, etc.).

Benefits

Excellent compensation & benefits plan with 401k matching.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Mercedes-Benz Vans is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), age, national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Additional information

Contact: Mercedes-Benz Vans, LLC, 8501 Palmetto Commerce Pkwy, Charleston, SC 29456. Email:

Charleston, SC