Lean Engineer (m/w/d)

Gotion Inc. is based in Silicon Valley, CA, currently building a Manufacturing facility in Manteno, IL and has R&D centers in Ohio, China, Japan and Europe. We innovate in the next generation electric vehicle and energy storage technologies (lithium batteries and related systems) with the aim to accelerate electrified transportation and achieve sustainable development. Gotion is powered by a leading power battery technology company that provides solutions for vehicles including the world's first mass commercial e-bus route.

Gotion is a career destination - we are not simply attempting to just fill another job, but to pursue a dream of global green energy together! We offer outstanding opportunities to individuals seeking an exciting and challenging working environment. Everyone is highly valued and plays a vital role in the growth of our organization.

About the Role

We are seeking a Lean Engineer to help drive operational excellence in our battery manufacturing facility. This role focuses on improving Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), reducing downtime and waste, improving yield, and embedding a strong Lean culture across highly automated, high‑volume production lines.

The ideal candidate has hands‑on Lean experience in a manufacturing environment, is comfortable working with production data, and thrives in a fast‑paced, technology‑driven operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Under the leadership of the Department Manager, analyze OEE data (Availability, Performance, Quality) from EV battery production lines.
• Identify top contributors to OEE loss, including downtime, cycle time losses, and quality defects.
• Lead root cause analysis using Lean problem‑solving tools (A3, PDCA, 5 Why, Fishbone, Pareto).
• Develop, implement, and sustain countermeasures to improve equipment reliability, process stability, and product yield.
• Partner with Production, Maintenance, and Engineering teams to improve line performance and eliminate chronic losses.
• Lead Lean improvement projects and Kaizen events focused on throughput, downtime reduction, yield improvement, and labor efficiency.
• Establish and facilitate cross‑functional Lean teams, ensuring engagement from operators, technicians, engineers, and supervisors.
• Promote a proposal‑based improvement (Kaizen) system that enables shop‑floor employee participation.
• Ensure improvements are standardized, documented, and sustained through standard work, audits, and metrics tracking.
• Actively support the development and reinforcement of a Lean production culture throughout the plant.
• Train and coach team members on Lean concepts, including:
  • Waste identification (Muda)
  • Standard Work
  • 5S and Visual Management
  • Flow and pull systems
• Support leadership in aligning Lean initiatives with Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and Morale (SQDC/M) objectives.
• Use Excel and manufacturing data systems to analyze trends, build reports, and communicate insights clearly.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 3-5 years of Lean / Continuous Improvement experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience in EV battery, electronics, semiconductor, or other high‑volume automated manufacturing strongly preferred.
• Solid knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles, tools, and methodologies.
• Strong data analysis skills with the ability to translate production data into actionable improvements.
• Strong execution and ownership mindset with the ability to manage multiple improvement initiatives.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across all organizational levels.
• Demonstrated team‑oriented and proactive approach.

Preferred Qualifications

• Lean or Continuous Improvement certification (Lean Practitioner, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt preferred).
• Experience working with OEE systems, MES, or equipment data platforms.
• Familiarity with SPC, control charts, and basic Six Sigma tools.
• Experience supporting new line launches, ramp‑ups, or equipment commissioning.

The US base salary range for this full-time position is $90-110K + 15% bonus + benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Base pay is one part of our total compensation package at Gotion, and is determined within a range. This provides you with the opportunity to progress as you grow and advance your career at Gotion. The base pay range for this role is shown below, and will depend on your skills, qualifications, experiences, and location.

Expected Pay Range

$90,000—$110,000 USD

Gotion Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve, cultivating a culture of inclusion and belonging, and ensuring equal employment opportunities for all.

We provide equal opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), parental status, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other characteristic protected by law.

At Gotion Inc., we strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.