Lean Specialist - Construction

The Opportunity

As Lean Specialist, you will support and advance continuous improvement across the Walbridge enterprise. This role will contribute to the evolution and sustainment of the Walbridge Lean Operating System by promoting process discipline, driving innovation, and enabling data-driven decision-making. The Lean Specialist will work closely with cross-functional teams to support the successful implementation of Lean practices, improve operational performance, and enhance both the customer and employee experience. This role is critical to ensuring alignment between field execution and corporate improvement initiatives while supporting Walbridge’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

Location

You will work from our enterprise Headquarters in Detroit, MI

Your key responsibilities

• Lean Operating System: Support the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the Walbridge Lean Operating System
• Process Improvement: Identify, analyze, and eliminate waste within construction and operational processes to improve efficiency and outcomes
• Project & Process Support: Assist in validating Lean practices and supporting project process compliance efforts, including participation in audits
• Problem Solving: Apply structured problem-solving methodologies, including A3 Thinking, to develop practical and scalable solutions
• Data & Performance Monitoring: Collect, analyze, and report on performance metrics to validate results and support continuous improvement initiatives
• Training & Field Engagement: Train and coach project teams on Lean tools and methodologies, fostering adoption and alignment across field operations
• Collaboration: Partner with field and corporate teams to bridge planning and execution, ensuring seamless integration of Lean practices
• Innovation & Technology: Support the evaluation and implementation of construction technologies and innovative solutions
• Industry Engagement: Participate in industry organizations and events (e.g., LCI, CURT) to bring leading practices back to Walbridge

To qualify for the role, you must have

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or related technical discipline preferred
• Minimum of three (3) years of related experience, including experience in roles such as Project Engineer or Superintendent
• Proven understanding and application of Lean principles within construction or similar environments
• Strong analytical, data management, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across project and corporate teams

Ideally, you’ll also have

• Experience with Lean planning tools and methodologies such as Last Planner System (LPS) and Target Value Delivery
• Demonstrated ability to influence teams and drive adoption of process improvements
• Strong communication and organizational skills to support cross-functional collaboration
• Experience supporting continuous improvement initiatives in field-based environments

Excited to make an impact? Apply now by clicking the “Apply” button below! We can’t wait to hear from you! 

Walbridge is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identification, citizenship status, status as an individual with a disability, military, or protected veteran status or any other legally protected status. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning career development, recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, training, termination, promotions, or any other condition of employment.