Job Title: Lean Technician
Location: Belton, SC
Employment Type: Full-time
Reporting to: Continuous Improvement Manager
Industry: Manufacturing | Mechanical Power Transmission Components | Engineering Services
Job Summary:
The Lean Continuous Improvement Technician is responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing improvements that enhance safety, organization, quality, productivity, and flow throughout the manufacturing facility. This role requires a highly motivated self-starter with strong mechanical aptitude who can work independently to identify opportunities, solve problems, and execute sustainable improvements.
The successful candidate will champion Lean Manufacturing principles by driving workplace organization, visual management, standardization, waste elimination, and continuous improvement initiatives. This individual must be comfortable working in a hands-on environment, using shop tools and fabrication methods to design and implement solutions that improve operational performance. This position will report to the Continuous Improvement Manager.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and support Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives throughout the facility.
- Independently identify opportunities to improve safety, workflow, organization, efficiency, and employee productivity.
- Identify risks, root causes, and potential failure modes associated with processes and improvement activities.
- Design, build, and implement organization, storage, visual management, ergonomic, and safety solutions using practical hands-on methods.
- Construct and install shadow boards, tool holders, labeling systems, visual controls, and workplace organization systems.
- Utilize Lean tools including 6S, Kaizen, TPM, setup reduction, scrap reduction, visual management, flow improvement, and problem-solving methodologies.
- Establish and maintain designated locations for tooling, equipment, and materials through visual workplace principles.
- Perform facility improvement activities including painting, floor striping, floor maintenance, cleaning, and workplace restoration projects.
- Support continuous improvement events and collaborate with production, maintenance, engineering, and leadership teams.
- Present improvement concepts, project updates, and results effectively to team members and leadership.
Required Qualifications:
- Strong self-starter with the ability to work independently and drive projects with minimal supervision.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization.
- Ability to prioritize multiple projects and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with hand tools including drills, wrenches, screwdrivers, tape measures, saws, and related equipment.
- Experience operating shop equipment such as band saws, table saws, grinders, and similar fabrication tools.
- Ability to obtain Powered Industrial Truck certification.
- Willingness to complete Lean training and certification requirements.
- Willingness to work overtime as required.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong mechanical aptitude with demonstrated fabrication of various materials.
- Experience implementing visual management systems, workplace organization programs, and process improvements.
- Knowledge of root cause analysis, risk identification, and failure mode prevention techniques.
- Previous experience with Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, Kaizen, 6S, TPM, Six Sigma, or related methodologies.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to lift to 35 pounds regularly.
- Frequent standing and walking throughout the workday.
- Frequent bending, reaching, lifting, and carrying.
- Ability to work from ladders and elevated platforms.
- Ability to work in a manufacturing environment for extended periods.
Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate is a mechanically inclined self-starter who takes ownership of improving the workplace. They are energized by identifying inefficiencies, eliminating waste, and implementing practical solutions. They possess a strong Lean mindset, are comfortable working with their hands, and are capable of turning ideas into measurable improvements that enhance safety, organization, and operational performance
Why Join Us?
• Work alongside a collaborative, experienced leadership team.
• Be part of an industry leader with a strong brand reputation and an innovation-driven culture.
RBC Bearings is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
