Senior Lean Engineer

Role Purpose

Ready to drive operational excellence and make a measurable impact in a world-class manufacturing environment?

Join Corning and play a key role in transforming operations through Lean methodologies, continuous improvement, and data-driven decision making. As a Sr. Lean Engineer, you will partner with cross-functional teams to improve productivity, eliminate waste, optimize processes, and deliver sustainable business results across manufacturing and support functions.

What is your role?

The Sr. Lean Engineer is responsible for leading continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity. This position drives operational excellence by applying Lean principles, structured problem-solving methodologies, and project management techniques to achieve measurable and sustainable improvements throughout the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute Lean manufacturing initiatives to improve productivity, reduce waste, and optimize operational performance.
• Conduct time studies, line balancing, standard work development, and process flow analysis to enhance efficiency and output.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, Gemba walks, 5S activities, and continuous improvement projects across multiple business areas.
• Apply structured problem-solving methodologies, including DMAIC, A3, 8D, and 5 Whys, to resolve process, material, and equipment challenges.
• Drive cost reduction projects and support the implementation of process improvements within the continuous improvement portfolio.
• Monitor project execution, savings, and sustainability to ensure long-term business impact.
• Train, coach, and mentor teams in Lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support new process implementation, flow improvements, and operational readiness initiatives.
• Create and deliver project presentations and status updates in English and Spanish.
• Ensure Lean best practices and lessons learned are implemented across all applicable functions and departments.
• Support internal and external audits, including ISO, Safety, 5S, and other operational assessments.
• Ensure compliance with Environmental, Health, and Safety requirements.

Experiences/Education - Required

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or a related technical field.
• 3+ years of experience in Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence, or Process Improvement roles.
• Strong experience with Lean tools including Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Standard Work, Time Studies, OBC, and Line Balancing.
• Proven knowledge of structured problem-solving methodologies such as DMAIC, A3, 8D, and 5 Whys.
• Experience leading or facilitating Kaizen, 5S, Gemba, and productivity improvement initiatives.
• Hands-on experience supporting production environments and resolving material, process, and equipment issues.
• Advanced English communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong analytical, facilitation, teamwork, and project leadership skills.
• Results-oriented mindset with demonstrated ability to deliver measurable business improvements.

Experiences/Education - Desired

• Lean Certification and/or Six Sigma Green Belt Certification.
• Advanced knowledge and practical application of DMAIC tools.
• Experience with layout design, AutoCAD, capital projects, or new process implementation.
• Ability to effectively present technical information and lead meetings in English.
• Self-directed professional capable of working with minimal supervision.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Exposure to global manufacturing and operational excellence initiatives.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Career growth opportunities within a global technology leader.
• Equal opportunity employer.