Lean Manager

Location: Chanhassen, United States of America

Thales people architect identity management and data protection solutions at the heart of digital security. Business and governments rely on us to bring trust to the billons of digital interactions they have with people. Our technologies and services help banks exchange funds, people cross borders, energy become smarter and much more. More than 30,000 organizations already rely on us to verify the identities of people and things, grant access to digital services, analyze vast quantities of information and encrypt data to make the connected world more secure.

Chanhassen, MN., (U.S.), Onsite

Thales requires Dynamic, forward-thinking Lean Manufacturing 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, etc.) 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. Provide options and alternatives for future facilities growth and expansion through IE principles. 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

• Bachelor’s degree in an Engineering field.
• Proven track record of leading successful lean transformations.
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems and digital manufacturing tools.
• Demonstrated competence in statistical techniques, data and capacity analysis.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office and engineering drafting tools such as Draft sight /AutoCAD.
• Hands on experience with Value Stream Maps including creating current state maps future state maps implementing future state action plans and optimizing product flow.
• Hands on expertise with lean tools such as 5S, visual management, waste elimination, standard work, Kanban and problem-solving techniques.

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

Skills and Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Operations, or related field (Master’s or Six Sigma Black Belt a plus).
• 2D AutoCAD and Plant Layout.
• Understanding of benefits of 5S and key elements for employee engagement.
• Kaizen/Value Stream Mapping facilitation.
• Industrial Engineering – Time Studies – Takt Time Charting and analysis
• Workstation design
• Shop Floor Kanban
• Industry 4.0 Facilitation
• AMR/AGV/Cobot Implementation
• 5 to 7+ years of experience in lean manufacturing across diverse organizations.

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þ Schedule: Please indicate the core work hours required for this position, e.g. First Shift, 7AM-3PM Monday through Friday; Core Business Hours Monday-Friday, etc.

Regular Work hours are 8 am until 5pm, Monday thru Friday. Will require as occasional needed visits to support manufacturing operations within manufacturing hours 24/5

þ Physical Environment: Please select this box if this position will require access to specialized work areas, e.g. manufacturing/production area, R&D lab, warehouse. If checked, please indicate the primary environment(s) where this position is required to work.

Climate controlled Manufacturing/production area. Requires physical presence on the shop floor and active participation of 5S activities. This could include organizing and set up of works cells and manufacturing processes. Expectation is a minimum of 20% time on the shop floor.

þ Travel: Please select this box if this position will require domestic and/or international travel to perform the essential functions of the position. If checked, please indicate the frequency or percentage of travel.

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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This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with [a] criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal law, state law, and local ordinances.

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.

If you need an accommodation or assistance in order to apply for a position with Thales, please contact us at talentacquisition@us.thalesgroup.com.

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

Total Target Cash (TTC) 80,480.89 - 147,843.18 USD Annual

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 employee’s career path history, competencies, skills and performance, as well as the company’s annual salary budget, the customer’s program requirements, and the company’s internal equity. Thales may offer additional benefits and other compensation, depending on circumstances not related to an applicant’s 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:

• 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