What are the responsibilities and job description for the Industrial Engineer, Continuous Improvement position at Slate Auto?
About Slate
At Slate, we’re building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.
Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking an experienced Industrial Engineer, Continuous Improvement to join our team. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, is skilled at embedding Lean Manufacturing into every process, and is motivated by building efficient systems from the ground up.
The Industrial Engineer, Continuous Improvement is both a technical expert and a leader, able to conduct time studies, leverage AI and digital tools, manage KPI dashboards, and guide teams through Lean Manufacturing training and problem-solving. Above all, we want someone who is passionate about driving process excellence, building capability in others, and shaping the culture of a new manufacturing organization. This role is a unique opportunity to help build and refine world-class manufacturing.
What You Get To Do
Slate Production System (SPS) Development & Optimization
At Slate, we’re fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.
Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.
Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at
slate-talent_acquisition@slate.auto.
At Slate, we’re building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.
Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking an experienced Industrial Engineer, Continuous Improvement to join our team. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, is skilled at embedding Lean Manufacturing into every process, and is motivated by building efficient systems from the ground up.
The Industrial Engineer, Continuous Improvement is both a technical expert and a leader, able to conduct time studies, leverage AI and digital tools, manage KPI dashboards, and guide teams through Lean Manufacturing training and problem-solving. Above all, we want someone who is passionate about driving process excellence, building capability in others, and shaping the culture of a new manufacturing organization. This role is a unique opportunity to help build and refine world-class manufacturing.
What You Get To Do
Slate Production System (SPS) Development & Optimization
- Lead workstation layouts, process standards, and material flow strategies across assembly and production areas.
- Establish takt time, line balance, and ergonomic best practices to ensure efficiency and safety.
- Conduct time studies and work measurements to validate cycle times and improve efficiency.
- Assist in PFMEA, control plans, and standardized work documentation to ensure robust launch readiness.
- Lead Kaizen workshops and continuous improvement projects to reduce waste and improve throughput.
- Facilitate hands-on training sessions, including onboarding sessions, coordinate training schedules with supervisors and department leads.
- Champion Lean Manufacturing tools (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, JIT, Poka-Yoke, VSM, etc.) across operations.
- Lead process improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency and reduce variability.
- Support cross functional operational departments for problem solving initiatives and track to closure.
- Collaborate with suppliers to ensure manufacturability and part readiness before plant assembly.
- Lead structured Root Cause Analysis and apply Lean and/or Six Sigma methodologies (DMAIC) to stabilize processes and improve quality.
- Implement and manage AI and digital simulations tools for process modeling, capacity planning and risk assessment.
- Develop and maintain dashboards and KPI tracking (OEE, throughput, scrap, productivity) to support data-driven decision-making.
- Translate performance metrics into actionable improvement plans.
- Conduct classroom and on-the-floor training sessions using materials developed by the Learning and Development Lead.
- Assist in the setup and operation of training equipment, simulations, and digital learning tools.
- Compile and distribute daily, weekly and monthly performance reports for leadership and cross-functional teams.
- Document and communicate outcomes of Kaizen events, root cause analysis and continuous improvement projects.
- Maintain accurate records of equipment capacity studies, line balancing and workload distribution.
- Prepare reports summarizing cost analysis, efficiency studies and savings opportunities.
- Track, analyze and report on Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) including cycle time, takt time, throughput, OEE and labor utilization.
- Gather feedback from trainees and supervisors to identify opportunities for improving training delivery.
- Collaborating with the Learning and Development Lead to refine content and scheduling based on operational needs.
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field is required. Master's degree is preferred.
- 5 years of Industrial Engineering experience in an automotive and/or manufacturing environment.
- Proven track record in Lean Manufacturing implementation, process optimization, and plant launch activities.
- Certified Six Sigma Green Belt is required.
- Certified Six Sigma Black Belt is preferred.
- Start-up experience is desirable, but not required.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced automotive development environment.
- Ability to align maps with KPI dashboards for tracking.
- Excellent communication and cross functional collaboration skills, with the ability to effectively influence teams.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Proficiency with VISIO and Minitab is preferred.
- Must have the ability to travel (up to 10%).
- Must have the ability to lift up to 35 pounds.
- Must have the ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.
At Slate, we’re fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.
- Safety First
- Delight Customers
- One Team
- Relentless Improvement
- Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy
- Respectful Collaboration
- Positive Legacy
Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.
Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at
slate-talent_acquisition@slate.auto.