Continuous Improvement Manager

JOB SUMMARY

Provides Continuous Improvement (CI) leadership and support for waste elimination in support of the Value Stream Analysis Strategic Plan. Their focus is primarily on directing teams in A3 problem solving and developing a culture focused on eliminating waste. This position will allow the candidate to gain exposure to multiple levels of management and a development path into engineering or operations roles with increasing responsibility and opportunities to make a positive impact.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Lead cross-functional teams in structured problem-solving using A3 thinking, Root Cause Analysis (RCA), and other Lean methodologies. Provide subject matter expertise to help teams characterize production performance (OEE, yield, throughput, downtime) and identify productivity opportunities. Partner with operations to define and implement Conduct of Operations (COO) and Operational Discipline (OD) practices to establish and sustain Standard Work. Facilitate CI activities to eliminate waste, reduce variability, and improve process stability (Kaizen). Support Strategy Deployment (Hoshin) by executing CI initiatives aligned with site and value stream objectives. Coach and train frontline teams and leaders in Lean & Six Sigma tools (e.g., 5S, standard work, visual management, problem solving, basic statistics). Assist in developing and maintaining performance management systems, including visual dashboards and daily management routines (MDI). Aid teams in analyzing data to identify improvement opportunities and drive data-driven decision making. Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams to sustain gains through control plans, mistake-proofing and standardization. Support Management of Change (MOC) and continuous improvement of processes to enhance safety, quality, and productivity. Promote a culture of continuous improvement by reinforcing behaviors aligned with accountability, discipline, and ownership at all levels of the organization.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree (B. S.) from a four-year college or university Two to five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

Resourcefulness, sense of urgency and ability to challenge the status quo Ability to take initiative and work effectively with teams across manufacturing, engineering, quality, etc. Manage projects, plan and coordinate project activities, communicate progress and challenges, and be a technical expert Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills to eliminate nonvalue-added activity, minimize change-over times & effort and promote stable operations. Have flexibility to work beyond normal workday hours, shift work, and some weekends. Leadership, communication and financial skills, and diplomacy promoting good relations across management and other functions to drive successful project execution. Ability to effectively communicate ideas and teach new concepts and/or procedures Proven ability to effectively deal with conflict and solve problems Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including statistical analysis Experience with Lean Process Development or similar productivity theories Confident and effective at communicating with all levels of an organization in an honest, open and constructive fashion Must have the ability to research and find and/or develop solutions to complex issues

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Manufacturing environment Requires 25% travel but could require more as required by the project work.