Value Stream Lead

Today, worldwide more than 11,000 employees are working on analytical challenges at over 90 locations across all continents. Bruker continues to build upon its extensive range of products and solutions, its broad base of installed systems, and a strong reputation among its customers. As one of the world's leading analytical instrumentation companies, Bruker is committed to meeting customer needs and developing state-of-the-art technologies for today's analytical questions.

Bruker Nano, one of Bruker’s four operating segments, provides tools to determine the characteristics of matter and visualize molecular structures for customers in academic and governmental institutions, life science, materials, and applied industries. Divisions within Bruker Nano include Bruker AXS, Bruker Nano Analytics, Bruker Nano Surfaces and Metrology, Fluorescence Microscopy, and Canopy.

About the role

The Bruker Nano Surfaces and Metrology Division is seeking a Value Stream Lead for our Eden Prairie, MN location, which houses our Hysitron NanoIndentation Product line. This hands-on role includes assembly, calibration, testing, and troubleshooting. The Value Stream Lead coordinates closely with Engineering to introduce new products and implement design or process improvements, supervises assembly and test processes, manages material and information flow, and ensures production schedules and delivery commitments are consistently met. The position is responsible for training, mentoring, and evaluating team members to maintain high standards of quality, productivity, and operational consistency.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily work activities to ensure production orders, repair work, and delivery commitments are met.
• Perform precision assembly, testing, and troubleshooting of electro-mechanical components and systems.
• Train and mentor new and existing employees on assembly processes, test procedures, repair procedures, safety requirements, and quality standards.
• Monitor material availability, manage work order flow, and ensure accurate movement of materials and documentation through the value stream.
• Collaborate with Engineering to support new product introductions, prototype builds, and implementation of design or process changes.
• Measure, track, and report key value stream performance metrics such as throughput, yield, rework, and cycle time.
• Develop, refine, and document standard work, assembly instructions, and test methods; contribute to fixture design, process development, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain a general working knowledge of Hysitron product families to support effective decision-making and coordination within the value stream.
• Collaborate professionally with peers, cross-functional partners, and management to support smooth daily operations and resolve issues constructively.
• Work independently with appropriate guidance from supervisors, exercising sound judgment when prioritizing tasks or addressing unexpected issues.
• Perform other operational duties to support team objectives and overall production needs.

Requirements

• At least 2 years of relevant experience in a manufacturing environment with precision assembly of electro-mechanical devices is preferred.
• Associate’s or B.S. degree in Electronics, Manufacturing Technology, or equivalent program is required.
• Moderate walking, standing, sitting, and/or climbing; heavy lifting and carrying, stooping, bending, kneeling, and reaching.
• Work outside and inside; work around machinery with moving parts; work around moving objects or vehicles; exposure to dampness and humidity; work on ladders and scaffolding; exposure to slippery and uneven surfaces.

Skills

• Experience in SAP or similar ERP systems for transactions, material movement, and production data entry is preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret schematics, drawings, wiring diagrams, and technical procedures.
• Skilled in hand soldering SMT, thru-hole, and fine gauge wire (32 gauge or smaller) or equivalent technical skill; precision modeling, artwork, or assembly of delicate miniature components may be an acceptable substitute.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to work with a microscope to manipulate and assemble small electrical and mechanical components.
• Competent in Microsoft Office applications for reporting, communication, and documentation.
• Ability to train, mentor, and support team members in technical tasks and standard work practices.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement methods.
• Use of hand and power tools.
• Ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance is required.

Pay

The estimated base salary range for this full-time position is between $63,500 and $113,500. The base salary will depend on job-related factors, including education, training, experience, geographic location, skills, competencies, job-related knowledge, and travel requirements. Full-time employees may also be eligible for a performance-related incentive.

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Medical and dental plans
• Life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and holidays