Lean Project Manager - Continuous Improvement Focus Job Listing at FN America in Columbia, SC (Job ID 2286730)

Description

Apply Job Type Full-time

FN America, LLC is a U.S. subsidiary of FN Herstal, S.A., a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, reliable firearms for military, law enforcement and commercial customers worldwide. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia with manufacturing operations in Columbia, South Carolina, FN America is passionately committed to providing its customers with a portfolio of FN-branded products, training and support services that enhance user performance and safeguard their lives. For more information, visit us at or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Position Summary

The Lean Project Manager - Continuous Improvement Focus (CIF) oversees and executes performance improvement initiatives within various departments of the organization, emphasizing lean methodologies to enhance safety, quality, delivery, cost-effectiveness, and productivity. The Lean Project Manager CIF manages subprojects stemming from the transition of production activities, including machining, assembly, and supply chain operations while ensuring the seamless transfer of processes and resources, and maintaining alignment with organizational goals and objectives and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Job Duties

• Contributes to our capacity expansion initiatives by managing subprojects that are critical to the success of our new facility. 
• Leads and manages lean-focused projects from initiation to completion, ensuring adherence to project timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• Collaborates with stakeholders to develop project plans, define objectives, and establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure project success.
• Maintains detailed project documentation, including progress reports, action plans, and performance metrics, to track project status and outcomes.
• Identifies opportunities for process improvement and waste reduction across departments, applying lean principles such as value stream mapping and process optimization.
• Utilizes structured problem-solving approaches to address operational inefficiencies and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Organizes and facilitates cross-functional Kaizen events to implement key process improvements, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the organization.
• Acts as a liaison between different departments to ensure effective communication and coordination throughout project implementation.
• Provides training and guidance on lean methodologies and project management best practices to team members, ensuring widespread adoption and understanding.
• Coaches and mentors team members in lean principles and project management techniques, empowering them to contribute effectively to continuous improvement efforts.
• Stays updated on industry trends and best practices in lean management and project management, incorporating new insights and techniques into project strategies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Educational Requirements

Bachelor's degree is required. Bachelor's degree in engineering, project management, or business administration is preferred.

Experience Requirements

Three years of project management with a focus on operations or lean methodologies and continuous improvement initiatives in a manufacturing environment is required. Experience with new and retrofit construction is preferred.

Skills and Competencies

All FN America employees are expected to demonstrate accountability, collaboration, communication, customer focus, and innovation. Additional requirements of this position include:

• Strong understanding and successful application of lean principles and methodologies, including value stream mapping, Kaizen events, and waste reduction techniques.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects, from planning and execution to monitoring and evaluation, while ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and analytical abilities, with knowledge in using data-driven approaches to identify root causes of issues and develop effective solutions.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Proficiency in project management tools and software, specifically Microsoft Project and capable of utilizing them to plan, track, and manage project activities and resources.
• Self-motivated and able to work autonomously, with a demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Licenses/Certifications

Lean, Six Sigma Black Belt is preferred. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) or Project Management Professional (PMP) is preferred.

Working Conditions

Typical office environment with some travel between buildings and to other locations required. May be exposed to loud noises and dangerous chemicals while on the plant floor. Must be able to frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds unassisted.

All FN America employees have a responsibility to participate in the development of a safe and healthy workplace and to comply with instructions given for their own safety and health and that of others. 

Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status.

FN America, LLC is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please email HR@FNAmerica.com or call: 803-736-0522. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor.