Continuous Improvement Engineer

Continuous Improvement Engineer

This role supports a newly established distribution and logistics operation in Northwest Indiana, focusing on continuous improvement within a fast-paced warehouse environment. The Continuous Improvement Engineer works closely with operations leadership and frontline teams to identify process inefficiencies, optimize workflows, and implement solutions that enhance productivity, quality, and overall operational performance. This position is well-suited for recent engineering graduates or early-career engineers who want to build hands-on experience in Lean methodologies, process improvement, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Analyze warehouse and operational processes to identify bottlenecks, waste, and inefficiencies across the distribution and logistics operation.
• Conduct root cause investigations using structured problem-solving methodologies to address recurring issues and drive sustainable improvements.
• Collect, organize, and analyze operational data to support continuous improvement initiatives and inform decision-making.
• Partner with operations leadership and frontline employees to evaluate current processes, gather feedback, and recommend practical improvements.
• Support Lean initiatives including 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, Kanban systems, and other continuous improvement tools.
• Develop clear process documentation, standard operating procedures, work instructions, and improvement plans to ensure consistent execution.
• Monitor key performance metrics and measure the effectiveness of implemented solutions, adjusting as needed to achieve target results.
• Participate in cross-functional projects focused on operational excellence, process optimization, and improved material flow.
• Assist with process audits and continuous improvement activities throughout the facility to maintain standards and identify new opportunities.
• Utilize ERP systems and operational reporting tools to support analysis, reporting, and data-driven decision-making.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support line balancing, process flow enhancements, and project management activities tied to continuous improvement.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain Engineering, Operations Engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data and translate findings into actionable improvements.
• Effective communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across different levels and functions within the organization.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications for data analysis, documentation, and reporting.
• Foundational knowledge of continuous improvement, Lean manufacturing, or process improvement concepts.
• Ability to perform root cause analysis and support structured problem-solving activities.
• Capability to work in a fast-paced warehouse and distribution environment while managing multiple tasks and priorities.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Internship, co-op, academic project, or professional experience involving continuous improvement, Lean manufacturing, process engineering, industrial engineering, or warehouse and distribution operations.
• Exposure to continuous improvement tools and methods such as Root Cause Analysis, 5 Whys, PDCA methodology, and 5S systems.
• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing principles, Kaizen activities, process flow design, and line balancing.
• Experience or coursework related to industrial engineering, operations engineering, or process optimization in a logistics or warehouse setting.
• Exposure to ERP systems, with experience in Oracle or similar platforms considered an advantage.
• Basic understanding of project management practices to support planning, execution, and follow-up of improvement initiatives.
• Comfort working with data-driven approaches and using operational reporting tools to track performance and outcomes.

Work Environment

This role operates within a distribution and warehouse environment that emphasizes safety, operational discipline, and continuous improvement. Personal protective equipment is required while on the warehouse floor, including steel-toe shoes, to ensure a safe working environment. The facility maintains clear rules regarding electronic devices, and cell phones are not allowed on the warehouse floor to promote focus and safety. The site is a smoke-free facility, including the parking lot, and adheres to strict safety and operational standards. The environment is fast-paced and hands-on, offering significant exposure to real-world logistics operations, modern warehouse processes, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, while fostering collaboration with both leadership and frontline teams.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of New Elliott, IN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $36.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in New Elliott, IN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 18, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.