Manufacturing Engineer – Lean Process Owner

About the role

Astec is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to lead lean initiatives and drive continuous improvement across its Chattanooga facility. The role focuses on eliminating waste, enhancing safety, quality, productivity and cost efficiency through structured lean methodologies.

Key responsibilities

• Identify and implement improvement opportunities using 5S, Kaizen, value‑stream mapping, process mapping and time studies.
• Lead cross‑functional events to optimize material flow, workforce utilization, space and equipment usage.
• Develop and maintain standard work, process documentation and visual controls.
• Support Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VAVE) initiatives.
• Assist new product introductions with process planning and production readiness.
• Manage capital equipment projects from scope definition through vendor evaluation, budgeting, installation and hand‑off.
• Prepare business cases with ROI, payback and risk assessments.

Required profile

• Proven experience in a manufacturing environment applying lean tools.
• Strong analytical mindset with ability to lead cross‑functional teams.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to influence stakeholders.
• Hands‑on experience with capital project execution.

Required skills

• Lean manufacturing methodologies (5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Process Mapping, Time Studies)
• Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
• Value Analysis / Value Engineering (VAVE)
• Capital project management
• ROI and payback analysis
• Vendor evaluation and RFQ development
• Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) / Site Acceptance Test (SAT) coordination
• Equipment installation, validation and integration