Lean Automation Manager

Chanhassen MN. (U.S.) Onsite

Thales is looking for a Dynamic forward-thinking Lean Automation Manager to lead continuous improvement initiatives across production operations. This role blends strategic vision with hands-on execution driving efficiency quality and agility in a modern manufacturing environment. Position leads lean transformation empowering cross-functional teams and embedding a culture of operational excellence.

• Champion lean principles (Kaizen 5S Value Stream Mapping SMED Gembaetc.) across all manufacturing processes

• Lead and facilitate cross-functional kaizen events and improvement workshops

• Analyze production metrics and identify bottlenecks waste and inefficiencies

• Collaborate with engineering quality and supply chain teams to optimize workflows and reduce lead times

• Implement digital tools and Industry 4.0 technologies to enhance visibility and performance

• Develop and mentor frontline leaders and operators in lean thinking and problem-solving

• Drive standardization visual management and error-proofing across operations

• Monitor KPIs (OEE throughput scrap rate etc.) and report progress to senior leadership

• Foster a culture of accountability safety and continuous improvement

• Prepare the annual Lean budget including justified Capital Expenditure

• To provide options and alternatives for future facilities growth and expansion through IE principles.

• To provide training and education to the entire work force across 3 shifts.

• To ensure best practice and improvements shared and learned within other THALES manufacturing sites

• Perform other duties as assigned

Skills and Abilities:

Professional Profile

• Experience: 57 years of experience leading successful lean transformations across diverse organizations.

• Education: Bachelors degree in an Engineering field.

• Core Values: Passion for innovation sustainability and empowering people through team-building and engagement.

Technical Expertise & Lean Tools

• Lean Methodology: Mastery of 5S visual management waste elimination standard work and Kanban systems.

• Value Stream Mapping (VSM): Hands-on experience facilitating Kaizen events creating current/future state maps and implementing action plans to optimize product flow.

• Industrial Engineering: Proficient in time studies Takt time charting workstation design and capacity analysis.

• Digital Manufacturing & Industry 4.0: Facilitation of Industry 4.0 initiatives including ERP/MES systems and AMR/AGV/Cobot implementation.

• Data & Software Skills

• Analytics: Strong data-driven decision-making skills with demonstrated competence in statistical techniques.

• Design Software: Expert in 2D AutoCAD/DraftSight for plant layout and engineering drafting.

• General IT: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital manufacturing tools.

Education:

• Bachelors degree in an Engineering field.

• Six sigma green belt

If youre excited about working with Thales but not meeting the requirements for this position we encourage you to join our Talent Community!

• Masters degree in engineering Operations or related field.

• Six Sigma master or Black Belt

• Understanding of benefits of 5S and key elements for employee engagement

• Knowledge. implementation and use of Power BI.

What We Offer

Thales provides an extensive benefits program for all full-time employees working 30 or more hours per week and their eligible dependents including the following:

Elective Health Dental Vision FSA/HSA Voluntary Life and AD&D Whole Group Life w/LTC Critical Illness Hospital Indemnity Accident Insurance Legal Plan Identity Theft and Pet Insurance.

Retirement Savings Plan after 30 days of employment with a company contribution and a match and with no vesting period.

Company paid holidays and Paid Time Off.

Company provided Life Insurance

Why Join Us

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We are an equal opportunity employer including disability and veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex race color religion national origin disability protected Veteran status age or any other characteristic protected by law.

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The reference Total Target Compensation (TTC) market range for this position inclusive of annual base salary and the variable compensation target is between

This reflects how companies in a similar industry and geographic region generally pay for similar jobs. This range helps the Company make pay decisions as one data point among many. Where a position falls within this range is also dependent on other factors including but not limited to the employees career path history competencies skills and performance as well as the companys annual salary budget the customers program requirements and the companys internal equity. Thales may offer additional benefits and other compensation depending on circumstances not related to an applicants status protected by local state or federal law.

(For Internal candidate if you need more information please reach out to your HR Shared Service 1st Point)

Thales provides an extensive benefits program for all full-time employees working 30 or more hours per week and their eligible dependents including the following:

Elective Health Dental Vision FSA/HSA Voluntary Life and AD&D Whole Group Life w/LTC Critical Illness Hospital Indemnity Accident Insurance Legal Plan Identity Theft and Pet Insurance

Retirement Savings Plan after 30 days of employment with a company contribution and a match and with no vesting period

Company paid holidays and Paid Time Off

Company provided Life Insurance AD&D Disability Employee Assistance Plan and Well-being Program