TPS
TPS (Toyota Production System) is a highly respected manufacturing approach first developed by Toyota. Think of it as a master recipe for running a factory efficiently. It focuses on removing waste, making things just when they're needed, and constantly improving how work is done. When you see TPS mentioned in a resume, it means the person understands lean manufacturing principles and efficient production methods. Other companies often call this 'Lean Manufacturing' or 'Just-In-Time Production,' but they're all based on TPS principles.
Examples in Resumes
Implemented TPS principles to reduce production waste by 25%
Led Toyota Production System training for 50+ factory staff
Managed production line using TPS and Lean Manufacturing methodologies
Typical job title: "TPS Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find TPS Specialists
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Learning Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How have you implemented TPS principles to improve a manufacturing operation?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that show experience in leading major change initiatives, measuring improvements in productivity or cost savings, and successfully getting buy-in from workers and management.
Q: How do you handle resistance to TPS implementation?
Expected Answer: Strong answers should include examples of change management, training programs, and showing tangible benefits to both workers and the company.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Explain how you would reduce waste in a production process.
Expected Answer: Should discuss identifying different types of waste (overproduction, waiting time, unnecessary movement, etc.) and practical steps to eliminate them.
Q: What experience do you have with Kaizen events?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe participating in or leading continuous improvement activities and showing measurable results.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the main principles of TPS?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic concepts like Just-in-Time production and built-in quality in simple terms.
Q: How do you organize a workspace using 5S?
Expected Answer: Should understand the basics of workplace organization: Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of TPS principles
- Experience with 5S workplace organization
- Knowledge of standard work procedures
- Basic problem-solving methods
Mid (2-5 years)
- Implementation of Just-in-Time systems
- Leading Kaizen improvement events
- Value stream mapping
- Team leadership in production environment
Senior (5+ years)
- Full TPS implementation experience
- Change management leadership
- Strategic planning for lean transformation
- Training and development program creation
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on manufacturing experience
- Lack of continuous improvement examples
- No experience with team leadership
- Unable to provide specific examples of waste reduction
- No understanding of basic lean manufacturing terms
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
A Beginner's Guide to Implementing an Applicant Tracking System
ATS Benefits For Recruiters: A 2025 Guide to Smarter Hiring
Building an Unshakable ATS Data Governance Framework: A Guide to Protecting Your Recruitment Goldmine
