Job Details

Overview

San Luis Obispo, California, United States

Join us at Zone 5 Technologies where innovation and cutting-edge technology drive pioneering advancements in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Based in San Luis Obispo, CA, we are seeking talented individuals to join and contribute to our growing team. We thrive on pushing boundaries and inventing solutions to real-world challenges, working with engineers and professionals to create impactful products with a global reach in the field of unmanned aircraft systems.

We are seeking a results-driven Production Continuous Improvement Manager to coach teams in scientific problem-solving while delivering measurable operational improvements through Toyota Kata methodology. This hands-on role requires developing improvement capabilities across production teams while executing targeted improvement projects that drive quantifiable results in our high-growth manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Toyota Kata Implementation & Coaching: Coach production teams through the Improvement cycle (understand current condition, establish target condition, conduct PDCA experiments, reflect on learning); guide teams in setting challenge directions and target conditions aligned with production goals; facilitate daily coaching cycles with team leaders and supervisors to develop scientific thinking patterns; support teams in rapid PDCA experiments on production processes, equipment performance, and workflow optimization; work hands-on with teams to identify obstacles preventing achievement of target conditions.
• Process Improvement & Results Delivery: Lead by example applying Toyota Kata to tackle complex production challenges; guide teams through systematic problem-solving using Plan-Do-Check-Act cycles for cycle time reduction, yield improvement, and defect elimination; analyze production lines, manufacturing processes, and bottlenecks using Lean tools (5S, value stream mapping, standardized work); execute targeted Six Sigma DMAIC projects when appropriate integrated with Toyota Kata experimentation; perform hands-on root cause analysis using statistical tools and data analysis.
• Performance Measurement & Learning Documentation: Establish and track production KPIs including OEE, cycle time, defect rates, and throughput; monitor progress toward target conditions and coach teams through obstacle identification and countermeasure development; generate monthly reports showing cost savings/productivity improvements and learning progression; maintain coaching records and experiment logs; validate improvement results through statistical analysis and control charts.
• Capability Development & Culture Building: Develop improvement kata and coaching kata capabilities in leadership; train production teams on scientific thinking, experimentation mindset, and learning from failure; create and maintain coaching cycles with team leaders across production areas; establish improvement kata practice routines and ensure sustainability of improvements; coach front-line supervisors on Toyota Kata and Lean problem-solving tools.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in industrial engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Business Administration, or related field
• 7+ years hands-on experience in production environments implementing continuous improvement methodologies
• Toyota Kata certification or demonstrated experience with Improvement Kata and Coaching Kata
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification preferred, or equivalent proficiency with Lean tools and statistical analysis
• Strong coaching and mentoring skills with ability to develop scientific thinking in others
• Experience with PDCA experimentation, hypothesis testing, and systematic problem-solving
• Proficiency with statistical analysis software and data visualization tools
• Proven track record of delivering measurable results in manufacturing operations
• Strong project management skills with ability to manage multiple concurrent initiatives

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace, defense, automotive, or high-precision manufacturing
• Knowledge of advanced manufacturing concepts
• Familiarity with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems
• Certification in project management (PMP) or change management
• This role requires 80% on the production floor working directly with manufacturing teams

Compensation & Benefits

Pay range for this role: $125,000 - $175,000 USD

• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more
• 401k with company match
• 4 weeks of paid time off per year
• 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology in defense and aerospace
• Collaborative Culture: Join a team of professionals dedicated to pushing boundaries
• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and advancement

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be part of a dynamic, growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!

Equal Employment Opportunity & Legal

Zone 5 Technologies is an equal opportunity employer. We comply with applicable equal employment opportunity laws and regulations. As a federal contractor, we participate in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility where required by law.

For candidates in voluntary self-identification programs, participation is voluntary. Any information provided is confidential and will not affect hiring decisions. If you have questions about EEO rights or E-Verify, contact the appropriate government agencies.