What is a Six Sigma Green Belt?

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Six Sigma Green Belt

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What is a Six Sigma Green Belt?

Lean Six Sigma Green Belts are employees who have been trained in Six Sigma Green Belt level improvement methods and will be leading continuous process improvement groups as part of their regular job. This allows for more time by company leaders and champions to be spent on strategy-building and decision-making components of the Lean Six Sigma project planning process. The Green Belts are better able to understand the entire process and work closely with subject matter experts (SMEs) to achieve performance goals.

Depending on the organization, Lean Six Sigma Green Belts can expect to spend between 10-25% of their time on Lean Six Sigma projects. Lean Six Sigma Green Belts are responsible for data collection and analysis within their project teams. Facilitation skills and the ability to lead root cause analysis sessions help them improve team dynamics and function.

Learn about Six Sigma Development Solution’s Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

What is the Salary of a Six Sigma Green Belt?

Companies around the globe are looking for Lean Six Sigma Green Belts to reduce costs and eliminate waste. The Green Belt is a valuable investment. They are recognized by employers as an investment because they have been trained to use Lean Six Sigma tools and methodologies to avoid defects and improve customer satisfaction.

Salary.com has revealed that the median annual salary of a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt professional in the United States is $113,300 as of May 01, 2023.

Based on the Green Belt role, the annual salary can also vary. A Process Engineer earns $89,953 on average, while a Quality Manager makes $93,199 and a Continuous Improvement Manager makes $133,790. A Quality Assurance or Quality Control Engineer makes $105,090 annually.

*All figures are from Salary.com Salary Estimation.

Median Salary of a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
Median salary of Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Should I invest in a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt?

Some facts to know before you decide to invest your time and money in Lean Six Sigma Green Belt training.

Lean Six Sigma projects can benefit every company

Lean Six Sigma Process Improvement Projects can be used by every job function in every industry. Green Belt Certification is applicable to any industry, no matter what it may be – manufacturing, sales, finance, marketing, or the back office. It expands your process improvement toolkit and gives your team the ability to identify the most appropriate tool and when.

Six Sigma Development Solutions, Inc’s Green Belt Training allows learners to apply Lean Six Sigma concepts before they are certified. This will allow you to see improvements immediately. Everyone who is Green Belt Certified will be better equipped to reduce waste.

Learn about Six Sigma Development Solution’s Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Sometimes the most powerful tools are the most basic

Process improvement doesn’t have to be difficult. The most effective tools and techniques are often those that are the most basic.

It is best to focus on the methods and tools that are most helpful to Green Belts if learners want to improve their process. Six Sigma Development Solution’s training does not require you to learn every graph or statistical test. Your team will instead focus on the methods and tools that are most effective in improving your results.

Lean Six Sigma Green Belts work on projects within their functional areas, but their training provides a much more extensive view of the organization.

Green Belt Training concepts and tools were created to encourage engagement and collaboration among learners. Your team members will gain valuable exposure to processes and people within the organization as they work on their Green Belt projects. This will allow them to have a deeper understanding of the business.

Steps of the Lean Six Sigma DMAIC Cycle
Steps of the Lean Six Sigma DMAIC Cycle

Green Belt training will never be obsolete

Green Belt Certification is all about problem-solving, root cause analysis and other skills that your company needs every day, regardless of industry. While Lean Six Sigma tools may be updated over time, it is a philosophy that improves, but the principles and methodology will remain relevant.

This means that your team’s Green Belt training won’t become obsolete regardless of changes in roles or functions.

Implementing Lean Six Sigma is not easy for everyone

Some organizations may not have had the best experiences with Lean Six Sigma. However, this is not due to the methodology or tools. This is usually due to how the training and implementation was done.

Your organization’s needs will determine the best way to implement Lean Six Sigma training. There are many ways to simplify deployment and minimize the risk of failure.

Six Sigma Development Solution’s Green Belt Training guides students to the best implementation methods. Partnering with us guarantees you the right strategy, timeline, and tools to help you train your team and create a culture that encourages Continuous Improvement.

Six Sigma follows the mantra “creativity before capital.”

Many organizations will hire consultants when they face process problems. While consultants have their place, they can also be detrimental to an employee’s ability to problem-solve and contribute to real process improvements.

Our Green Belt Training equips team members with the skills and tools that will support their creativity, as Lean Six Sigma adheres to the principle of “Creativity first before Cash.” Your organization can harness the power of creativity to improve its processes, increase profits and reduce costs, without having to pay for external help.

Free online lean six sigma white belt certification course
FREE White Belt certification course (a $99.99 value)

Should I pursue a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification?

If you’re interested in improving processes and reducing errors in your organization, then you should pursue a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification. Whether you’re new to Lean Six Sigma Green Belt preparation or looking to advance your certified career, this guide has everything you need to know. The requirements and preparation of a Lean Six Sigma Green Belts Green Belt Six Sigma certified (SSGB) are professionals who are certified with a deep understanding of the Six Sigma Methodology’s advanced elements. SSGBs are responsible for leading improvement projects, and they also serve as team members in more difficult improvement projects that are managed by Black Belts and Master Black Belts.

Lean Six Sigma Green Belts are proficient in all aspects of the Lean Six Sigma Methodology. They competent in the DMAIC (Define Measure, Analyze, and Improve) roadmap. Green Belt certified professionals are highly skilled in Lean Six Sigma implementation, performance, interpretation, and application.

Who is Eligible to Become a Six Sigma Green Belt?

Lean Six Sigma is a people-driven process. The performance of Six Sigma projects depends on the skills, dedication, and perseverance of each member. The roles that contribute to the project are the most important. Often, the Black Belt is the only role that is considered. Green Belts play a vital role in improving project performance.

Green Belts are highly skilled team members whose goal is to improve the quality of processes. They bridge the gap between the Six Sigma theory and its real-world application. They are crucial in project management, process improvement, and data inspection. The Green Belt certification training covers the basics of project management and how to apply DMAIC skills in Six Sigma projects.

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certifications are for those who have experience in supply chain management and business management and are interested in terminologies such as waste reduction and continuous improvement. The certification increases the candidate’s proficiency, which makes them more attractive to employers. This certification is for professionals responsible for improving output, controlling costs, and improving results.

Lean Six Sigma is a people-driven process. The performance of Six Sigma projects depends on the skills, dedication, and perseverance of each member. The roles that contribute to the project are the most important. Often, the Black Belt is the only role that is considered. Green Belts play a vital role in improving project performance.

Green Belts are highly skilled team members whose goal is to improve the quality of processes. They bridge the gap between the Six Sigma theory and its real-world application. They are crucial in project management, process improvement, and data inspection. The Green Belt certification training covers the basics of project management and how to apply DMAIC skills in Six Sigma projects.

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certifications are for those who have experience in supply chain management and business management and are interested in terminologies such as waste reduction and continuous improvement. The certification increases the candidate’s proficiency, which makes them more attractive to employers. This certification is for professionals responsible for improving output, controlling costs, and improving results.

Key Benefits of a Six Sigma Training
Key Benefits of a Six Sigma Training

How do I become a certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt?

Different providers can award Lean Six Sigma certifications. Some major certification providers include ASQ, IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification), and our firm Six Sigma Development Solutions, Inc. (we are an Accredited Training Organization accredited by the IASSC)

We (Six Sigma Development Solutions, Inc.) provide two options for Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification:

Option #1: Pass the IASSC Examination

Resources to help you pass the IASSC exam:

We recommend that you study for the IASSC Lean Six Sigma exam at least seven days following the completion of the course.

You will not be required to complete any Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt projects if you select this option. It is recommended that candidates for the IASSC examination have practical experience in Lean Six Sigma and project implementation.

** If you select the IASSC certification test, we suggest that you allow us to mentor through a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt Project.

Option #2: Complete a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt project

  • Use the tools, methods, and roadmap provided by Six Sigma Development Solutions, Inc. to complete a Lean Six Sigma project within six (6) months.
  • This option will allow you to earn a Six Sigma Lean Certification from Six Sigma Development Solutions, Inc.
  • You will need to pass the Six Sigma Development Solutions Internal Lean Six Sigma Examination if you successfully complete a Lean Six Sigma Project in a group (more than one candidate is working on the project).
  • The 20-question exam is timed at 60 minutes. You will have two chances to succeed. If you fail to pass the exam twice, you must conduct your own Lean Six Sigma Project (not in a group).

You can choose to finish a project by:

  • You will be guided by our Master Black Belt Mentors through the entire project cycle to successfully complete your certification project.
  • Before the class, our Master Black Belt instructors will assist you in identifying a project which will allow you to learn the tools and methods effectively and earn your certification in less than three months.
  • After the class, our Master Black Belts are available to mentor you at each stage of your project (for up to six months). We want you to learn effectively and quickly (within three months).

You can use these tools to complete your project.

  • A well-defined flowchart and Tollgate (Checklist).
  • You will be mentored by an SSDSI master black belt throughout the entire certification project cycle.
  • This PowerPoint template includes detailed instructions for creating your final presentation.

Plan and road map to help you complete your project in three months.

What do you learn in a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification course?

Typically, in a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification course you will learn a combination of the core Six Sigma Green Belt tools and fundamental LEAN tools to give the student a well-rounded problem-solving tool set. The following are the tools and methodologies that we (Six Sigma Development Solutions, Inc.) teach in our various levels of Green Belt:

  • LEAN and Six Sigma Overview
  • How to Select the Right Lean Six Sigma Projects
  • How to Develop the Lean Six Sigma Project Charter
  • The SIPOC Diagram (Verify Your Project Focus)
  • Learn How to use Value Stream Mapping to Quickly Identify Waste in the Process
  • Developing the X-Map (or Input Map) to Discover the Key Inputs to Your Process)
  • Developing the Cause and Effects Matrix to Prioritize Key Inputs
  • How to Complete the Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to Manage Risk
  • Brush up on Basic Statistics
  • Learn the Basic Graphical Stats Tools (Pareto Charts, Boxplots, Scatter Plots)
  • How to Define your Processes Capability in Metrics
  • How to Turn a Practical Question into a Statistical Question (or Hypothesis)
  • How to Understand the Statistical Relationship between two variables
  • How to Control Your Process using SPC (Statistical Process Control)
  • LEAN Concepts Overview
  • The Fusion of LEAN and Six Sigma
  • 8 Deadly Wastes
  • Implementing Flow with TAKT
  • Line Balancing / Level Loading
  • Using Heijunka to Enable Flow
  • Using OEE to Prevent the Six Big Losses
  • SMED (Quick Changeover)
  • Pull, Kanban, and Flexibility
  • Mistake Proofing (Poka-Yoke)
  • 5S Visual Management
  • Standardized Work – The Foundation of LEAN
  • Conducting Kaizen (Vision) Events

Learn about Six Sigma Development Solution’s Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Career opportunities for a Lean Six Sigma certified Green Belt

The job duties of Green Belts vary depending on the industry. However, most Green Belts are focused on managing projects, improving processes, and analyzing data. Professionals with Six Sigma Green Belt certification can find employment in:

  • Project Manager: The project manager is responsible for prioritizing and leading projects of varying size and complexity. Six Sigma is used by project managers to optimize processes and resources to complete projects.
  • Six Sigma consultant: Six Sigma experts work closely with the operations team using their Project Management skills to analyze and challenge current processes. They also make recommendations that will improve workflow and reduce waste.
  • Reliability Engineering: This role involves developing reliability test plans and working with customers and internal teams to resolve any reliability issues.
  • Process engineer: The process engineer supports the leadership of a company in evaluating its internal processes with an eye towards efficiency and quality.
  • The Mechanical Engineer: A mechanical engineer focuses on developing new tools, devices, and products. Mechanical engineers use their Six Sigma knowledge to create product concepts, design equipment, and test new products.
  • Production Engineer: Production engineers optimize and develop processes to design, manufacture, and ship products. Six Sigma Green Belts are responsible for this role. They use their lean knowledge to solve problems and improve the manufacturing process.
  • The Industrial Engineer: An industrial engineer evaluates production rates, quality control processes, and employee productivity to find more efficient ways of using employees, equipment, and other resources. 
  • Continuous Improve Specialist: Continuous improve (CI) specialists identify, coordinate and conduct root cause analyses by collecting data. CI specialists share their findings and make recommendations with the company’s management.
  • A Quality Engineer: The quality engineer is responsible for making sure that the products of a company meet customer requirements. Professionals who hold this position are usually involved in day-to-day activities as well as planning for long-term improvements.
  • Operational excellence manager: Reporting directly to senior management, operational excellence managers manage Lean Six Sigma initiatives within an organization by working with team members of all levels. Operational Excellence Managers are crucial to the success of improvement initiatives.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification follows DMAIC

While Lean Six Sigma content may be varied, the structure follows the DMAIC (Define, Measure Analyze, and Improve, Control) methodology.

Six Sigma Green Belt DMAIC process
Green Belt Six Sigma Certified

The DMAIC methodology is a 5-phase process improvement system that addresses unknown causes. It is a formal method that allows teams to investigate process issues and produce quantifiable, long-lasting results.

To learn more about the DMAIC Roadmap read our article, “DMAIC: What is it? What does it mean?”

Responsibilities and Roles of a Six Sigma Green Belt

An employee who has been trained in preparation for Six Sigma improvement is called a Green Belt. Their main job is to lead the improvement of processes to produce high-quality products and services. Green Belts are involved in the strategy-building and decision-making components of Six Sigma project planning.

They have a deep understanding of the entire process and can provide feedback to help drive performance goals. Six Sigma Green Belts have the following main responsibilities:

  • Assist the Six Sigma Improvement project team.
  • Under the supervision of a Six Sigma Black Belt
  • Analyze quality issues and find solutions.
  • Coordinate with the data collection team for the project and validate the measurement system.
  • Green Belts work within their functional limits
  • Facilitate team building activities.
  • Create a project charter with Supplier, Input, and Process (SIPOC), diagram for the project.

Green Belt certification builds problem-solving muscles.

Lean Six Sigma can transform your team into problem-solving heroes – and that’s something your company will never lack!

Six Sigma Development Solutions, Inc. Green Belt standardizes basic problem-solving knowledge and provides a solid foundation to a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. We believe that learning is best when it’s done. Therefore, we make it easy for our team members to use what they have learned, which means they spend less time training, and more time achieving results.

Learn about Six Sigma Development Solution’s Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Why should you get a certification?

Lean Six Sigma certification gives you the tools to solve complex problems across many industries. Learning about Lean Six Sigma and the DMAIC methodology will prepare you to solve complex problems in any role. These new skills will allow you to initiate and complete continuous improvement projects that improve efficiency and quality, as well as the bottom line.

Why is Six Sigma Certification Important to You?

Problem-solving is a learned skill and Lean Six Sigma Black and Green belt certification programs can help you learn how solve problems effectively.

lean six sigma belts
Green Belt Six Sigma Certified

Earning a Lean Six Sigma certification and applying Lean Six Sigma principles to your business can help you stand out from the rest. Leaders are attracted to professionals who can demonstrate tangible results from their projects. You could also gain extensive knowledge about your company, which could help you to build a reputation in your organization for being a subject matter expert.

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