Job Description
Job Description
The Continuous Improvement Engineer is responsible for driving operational excellence through Lean Manufacturing principles, process optimization, waste elimination, and continuous improvement initiatives across the operation. This role partners with production, distribution, IT/engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to improve safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and cost performance while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The ideal candidate is a hands-on change agent with a proven ability to lead Kaizen events, implement Lean tools, and deliver measurable operational improvements.
Responsibilities
- Lead and facilitate Kaizen events focused on improving safety, quality, productivity, lead time, and cost.
- Identify improvement opportunities through data analysis, process observation, and employee engagement.
- Implement Lean Manufacturing methodologies including:
- Value Stream Mapping
- 5S
- Standard Work
- Visual Management
- SMED (Quick Changeover)
- Root Cause Analysis
- A3 Problem Solving
- Kanban/Pull Systems
- Waste Elimination
- Poka-Yoke (Error Proofing)
- Analyze material handling/flow along with kitting processes and develop solutions that improve throughput, reduce cycle times, eliminate waste, and increase capacity.
- Facilitate cross-functional teams to execute continuous improvement projects from concept through implementation.
- Develop process documentation, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.
- Establish and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure project success.
- Train employees at all levels in Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement techniques.
- Support new product introductions and process improvements to ensure efficient manufacturing operations.
- Conduct root cause investigations and implement sustainable corrective actions.
- Promote a culture of employee engagement, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Present project updates and results to plant leadership.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in Continuous Improvement, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related manufacturing role.
- Demonstrated success implementing Lean Manufacturing principles in a manufacturing environment.
- Experience leading multiple Kaizen events with measurable operational results.
- Strong knowledge of Lean tools and continuous improvement methodologies.
- Experience with process mapping, statistical analysis, and root cause problem solving.
- Excellent facilitation, communication, and project management skills.
- Ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and other standard business software.