Independent manufacturing efficiency consultant

Small and mid-size manufacturers, fabrication shops, food processors and industrial suppliers that want lower costs, less waste or higher output.

Day rate, hourly rate or fixed fee per project (for example a process audit or a layout redesign), plus follow-up retainers to track results.

• Hands-on experience in manufacturing or operations
• Lean, continuous improvement or quality methods
• Clear reports and presentations
• Building trust with plant managers and staff

• Professional liability (errors and omissions) and commercial general liability insurance, as clients may ask for proof before hiring you
• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence
• Register for GST/HST once you pass the small supplier threshold, and check provincial sales tax rules
• Site safety rules and any required safety training (such as WHMIS or plant-specific orientation) before entering a factory
• Income can be uneven at first, as sales cycles with manufacturers can be slow
• Check conflict-of-interest or non-compete terms with any former employer

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your home office setup and how you find your first clients. Income can be uneven at first, so it helps to plan for slower early months.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how many projects you take on and the hours you work. Sales cycles with manufacturers can be slow, so income may be uneven at first.

Check professional liability (errors and omissions) and general liability insurance, as clients may ask for proof. Also check for a home-based business licence, GST/HST registration, safety training such as WHMIS before entering plants, and non-compete terms with former employers.