Industrial Sustainability Engineer

Position Summary:

The Industrial Sustainability Engineer supports Vanguard Furniture's commitment to operational excellence, craftsmanship, and sustainability. This role leads process improvement initiatives by applying engineering expertise, Lean principles, and energy management strategies to identify waste, optimize production systems, and reduce environmental impact. The engineer evaluates how labor, equipment, materials, information, and energy resources are used across the organization, then designs smarter and more efficient approaches. This position is hands-on, collaborative, and central to driving long-term improvements through Kaizen events, training, and cross-functional engagement.

Position Responsibilities:

Energy Management & Sustainability

• Conduct energy audits across facilities to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for reduction.
• Collect, analyze, and monitor energy usage data; establish measurable KPIs to track improvements.
• Develop and implement energy-smart processes, technologies, and modifications-including renewable and alternative energy solutions when applicable.
• Standardize procedures for energy-efficient operations and equipment use.
• Use problem-solving and root cause methods to reduce energy waste and equipment downtime.

Continuous Improvement Initiatives

• Lead CI projects focused on improving safety, eliminating waste, and increasing operational efficiency.
• Facilitate value stream mapping to identify Current State vs. Future State, with strong emphasis on energy usage and flow optimization.
• Implement sustainable Lean programs: 6S, visual controls, load smoothing, Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), and related efficiency initiatives.
• Guide workplace layout changes, workflow enhancements, and equipment installations/modifications to support Lean and energy-conscious manufacturing.
• Utilize video/time studies, engineering tools, and data analytics to validate labor standards and evaluate performance.

Leadership, Training & Culture

• Facilitate Kaizen events and DMAIC-driven improvement projects, engaging operators and leadership.
• Mentor associates and leaders on Lean concepts, energy management best practices, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Guide leadership and teams to the Gemba to observe workflow, understand root causes, and collaborate on solutions.
• Build positive working relationships based on respect, accountability, and teamwork.
• Act as a change agent who champions innovation, sustainability, and continuous learning in a fast-paced environment.

Reporting & Project Management

• Manage project planning, timelines, and deliverables while ensuring alignment with Vanguard strategic goals.
• Track results of CI and energy initiatives, communicating progress, impact, ROI, and sustainability to stakeholders.
• Maintain documentation, standards, and reporting systems to ensure repeatability and long-term adoption.

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Electrical, or Energy Engineering preferred) and/or equivalent experience.
• 3-5+ years of manufacturing experience required.
• Knowledge of energy management principles, sustainable manufacturing, or industrial energy systems.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Lean methodologies (DMAIC, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, 6S, TPM).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and convert it into actionable recommendations.
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills-able to collaborate with engineering, operations, and production teams.
• Working knowledge of software tools such as Excel, AutoCAD, and/or manufacturing analytics platforms.
• Experience with ISO 50001 or similar energy and sustainability programs is a plus.

Physical demands and work environment:

• Lift / Carry: lift up to 50 lbs.; team lift greater weights. Most of the weight is moved by some type of equipment: hand truck, forklift, and team lift.
• Manual Dexterity: The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or maneuver objects.
• Standing/Walking: Must be able to stand and walk 8+ hours.
• Reach / Handle: Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
• Crouch/Bend/Stoop/Kneel/Crawl: Frequently required when moving a furniture item.
• Push / Pull: Frequently moving furniture items on/off pack conveyor or tables or sliding across floor.
• Environment: Indoors, environmentally controlled - 100%.
• Automation: Conveyor system, battery operated pallet jack used for positioning when needed.
• Near Vision: The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
• Static Strength: The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
• Trunk Strength: The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without 'giving out' or fatiguing.