Lean Engineer - Data Center Construction
The Lean Engineer supports construction project teams by applying kaizen-based continuous improvement methods, 5S, and flow construction techniques to enhance safety, streamline processes, and improve project outcomes. This role involves partnering with project leadership and craft workforce to implement lean practices, facilitate improvement events, and promote efficient work management on-site, requiring strong communication, training, and relationship-building skills.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is seeking a Lean Engineer (Level I or II) to support data center construction projects by applying kaizen-based continuous improvement, 5S, and Flow Construction methods to improve safety, productivity, and project outcomes.
- Partner with project leadership, forepersons, and craft workforce to build trust and gain buy-in for lean practices
- Provide regular feedback to project leadership and the group lean leader; share lessons across projects
- Coordinate and facilitate improvement events and kaizen workshops with project teams and subject-matter experts
- Observe work, assess adherence to standardized work, and help address abnormalities
- Support implementation and onboarding of 5S standards for crews and trade partners
- Help develop and support flow schedules and daily work management practices
- Promote one-piece flow for self-perform scopes and help reduce batching where safe and appropriate
- Create plans, resources, and visual tools to sustain 5S and continuous improvement practices
- Coach and train field teams on lean techniques and continuous improvement behaviors
- Participate in and support continuous improvement initiatives across the project lifecycle
- Perform other duties as assigned to support project delivery
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering, Engineering, or related field OR equivalent combination of education and relevant field experience
- Internship or prior experience in construction or manufacturing preferred; prior job-site experience a plus
- Solid understanding of continuous improvement principles (kaizen, 5S, flow/work management)
- Demonstrated ability to train, facilitate improvement events, and influence through relationship-building
- Strong communication, active listening, and coaching skills
- Proactive, reliable, and a self-starter with a growth mindset
- Ability to work with, and respect, individuals from diverse backgrounds and organizational levels
- Valid driver’s license
- Ability to travel up to 75%
Compensation & Employment Type
- Employment type: Contract (with potential full‑time assignment depending on project)
- Lean Engineer I: Base pay range $78,800 — $98,500 per year
- Lean Engineer II: Base pay range $81,800 — $110,400 per year
- Note: the source posting lists higher adjustments for certain major-city offices (e.g., Denver, Chicago, Seattle, Portland, Washington, D.C.). Base pay is positioned within the range based on experience, skills, and internal equity.
- This position is eligible for the client’s incentive plan where applicable.
Benefits (where applicable for non-craft / non-union roles working 25+ hours/week)
- Medical and prescription plans (includes no-cost vision coverage)
- Dental coverage
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
- Paid time off, holidays, and other paid leaves
- Employer-paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance
- No-cost mental health tools and concierge services
- Tuition reimbursement, adoption assistance, and gym membership discounts (program availability varies)
About the Confidential Client
Confidential Client is a builder, developer, and EPC firm with project experience across markets such as data centers, renewable energy, sports, healthcare, and more. The organization focuses on safe, high-quality project delivery and continuous improvement in the built environment.
Additional Details & Legal
- Visa sponsorship is not offered for this position. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
- Travel to project sites may be required (up to 75% as noted).
- This posting follows applicable federal and state employment laws. Reasonable accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities; please let us know if you need assistance.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range