Industrial Engineer

Industrial Engineer - Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
Location: Grand Rapids, MI

Due to the nature of the work, US Citizenship is required
Employer: ACARA Solutions (Onsite with our Aviation client)

3-7 years' experience in an industrial engineering or manufacturing engineering role, with lean manufacturing and continuous improvement

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Industrial Engineer with strong experience in lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and operational excellence frameworks. This role combines the technical rigor of manufacturing engineering with the process-focused perspective of industrial engineering to drive measurable improvements across production operations.

• Partner with leadership to analyze and optimize value streams, identifying systemic constraints and opportunities for waste elimination.

• Lead and support Kaizen events, problem-solving workshops, and rapid improvement initiatives across product lines and functions.

• Apply lean tools and methodologies (5S, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, A3 Thinking, Visual Management, etc.) to improve efficiency, quality, and safety.

• Support the design and implementation of processes, layouts, and standard work to drive sustainable improvements.

• Develop and maintain capacity models, line balancing studies, and process flow maps to ensure optimal utilization of resources.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new technologies, equipment, and process changes with a CI mindset.

• Act as a coach and mentor to employees at all levels, building a culture of lean thinking and structured problem solving.

• Track, measure, and report results of improvement initiatives to ensure sustained progress in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and people development.

• Engage with teams to foster a continuous improvement culture across the business.

• Schedule: 40 hours/week

• Assignment: Contract-to-Hire (12 Months)

• Opportunity to shape the standard for continuous improvement within the company.

• Direct involvement in transformational projects on the production floor.

• A collaborative culture that values innovation, problem-solving, and continuous learning.

• Competitive salary, benefits, and long-term career growth opportunities.

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About Acara Solutions

Acara is a premier provider of recruiting and workforce solutions, and we help companies compete for talent. With a legacy of needs in various industries worldwide, we partner with clients, listen to them, and customize visionary talent solutions that drive desired business outcomes. We leverage decades of experience to deliver contingent staffing, direct placement, executive search, and workforce services worldwide.

• Bachelor's degree in industrial engineering or manufacturing engineering
• Minimum 3 years of experience in an industrial engineering or manufacturing engineering role, with direct involvement in continuous improvement initiatives.
• Minimum 3 years of experience with value stream mapping, process optimization, and lean six sigma tools.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in leading cross-functional improvement projects with measurable results

• Lean Six Sigma certification (or similar certification program)
• Ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and translate insights into actionable improvements.
• Exceptional communication and facilitation skills; able to engage at all levels of the organization.

Additional Information:

• Upon offer of employment, the individual will be subject to a background check and a drug screen.
• In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.