Entry Level Lean Engineer

Lean Engineer (Entry-Level)

Location: Manteno, IL 
Department: Operations / Manufacturing Engineering
Reports To: Continuous Improvement Manager or Operations Manager

About Gotion:
Gotion, Inc. is a rapidly growing clean energy company focused on advancing lithium battery technology for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. With operations in the U.S., China, Japan, and Europe, our mission is to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy through innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Position Overview:

The Lean Engineer (Entry-Level) will support Gotion’s manufacturing and operational excellence initiatives by applying lean manufacturing principles, data analysis, and problem-solving methodologies. This role is ideal for recent engineering graduates who are passionate about process improvement, efficiency, and sustainability in a high-tech manufacturing environment.

You’ll work cross-functionally with production, quality, and supply chain teams to identify waste, streamline processes, and support implementation of lean tools throughout the facility.

Key Responsibilities:

Support continuous improvement projects to reduce waste, improve quality, and increase efficiency across production areas.

Collect and analyze process data to identify trends and improvement opportunities.

Participate in Kaizen events, value stream mapping, and root cause analyses.

Create and update process documentation, standard work instructions, and visual management tools.

Collaborate with production and engineering teams to implement 5S, TPM, and other lean systems.

Support development of key performance indicators (KPIs) and monitor progress toward improvement goals.

Assist in training and coaching operators and team members on lean methodologies.

Contribute to the implementation of digital tools and Industry 4.0 initiatives related to lean manufacturing.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Basic understanding of lean manufacturing concepts (5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Kanban, etc.).

Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and data visualization tools; knowledge of Minitab or similar software a plus.

Eagerness to learn, innovate, and contribute to a sustainable energy future.

Preferred (Not Required):

Internship or co-op experience in a manufacturing or continuous improvement environment.

Familiarity with Six Sigma or Lean certifications (e.g., Lean Green Belt).

Exposure to automotive or battery manufacturing environments.

Why Join Gotion:

Be part of a mission-driven company leading innovation in EV and energy storage technology.

Gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, high-growth manufacturing environment.

Work alongside a diverse, global team dedicated to sustainability and continuous improvement.

Competitive pay, benefits, and professional development opportunities.