Continuous Improvement Leader

Location: Jefferson City, Missouri, United States of America Job ID: R0123474 Date Posted: 2026-11-06 Company Name: HITACHI ENERGY USA INC Profession (Job Category): Quality Management Job Schedule: Full time Remote: No

Job Description: The Opportunity At Hitachi Energy, we believe continuous improvement and innovation go hand in hand. As a Digital Lean Transformation Leader, you will have the opportunity to drive meaningful change by combining Lean manufacturing principles with modern digital solutions to enhance operational performance across our Jefferson City facility. Responsible to ensure compliance with applicable external and internal regulations, procedures and guidelines. In this highly visible role, you'll partner with teams across operations, engineering, quality, materials, and leadership to create smarter ways of working. You'll help transform data into insights, streamline processes, and foster a culture where continuous improvement is part of everyday work. From leading impactful Kaizen events to implementing digital tools that increase efficiency and transparency, your contributions will help improve Safety, Quality, Delivery, Inventory, and Cost performance. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex challenges, empowering teams, and turning strategic goals into measurable results. You'll have the freedom to influence change, introduce innovative ideas, and build sustainable improvements that make a real difference. At Hitachi Energy, you'll join a collaborative and inclusive environment where curiosity is encouraged, development is supported, and your work directly contributes to advancing a more sustainable energy future.

How You’ll Make an Impact

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and ITM principles supported by digital technologies.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to foster a culture of operational excellence and continuous learning.
• Facilitate Kaizen events utilizing tools such as 5S, visual management, daily management, and value stream mapping.
• Develop and maintain KPI visibility through Power BI dashboards and performance reviews.
• Drive the digitization of manual processes using Power Apps and other low-code technologies.
• Lead productivity and cost optimization initiatives through data-driven analysis and problem-solving.
• Coach teams and leaders in Lean methodologies, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement practices.
• Support ITM assessments, action plans, and the implementation of standardized ways of working.
• Responsible to ensure compliance with applicable external and internal regulations, procedures and guidelines.

Your Background

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in manufacturing, engineering, quality, materials, operations, or process improvement environments.
• Experience leading Kaizen events, continuous improvement projects, or operational excellence initiatives.
• Strong problem-solving skills with experience facilitating root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Experience influencing stakeholders and collaborating across multiple functions and organizational levels.
• Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement certification preferred; experience with ITM or similar operating systems is a plus.

More About Us

Join a purpose-driven global organization committed to advancing a more sustainable, secure, and reliable energy future. Expand your skills through continuous learning, digital upskilling programs, leadership development, and global career opportunities. Thrive in an inclusive, collaborative culture where diverse perspectives fuel innovation and long-term success.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities Equal Employment Opportunity Hitachi is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer.

We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, including females, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Accessibility and reasonable accommodation

Accessibility and reasonable accommodation Protected veterans and qualified individuals with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access the Hitachi Energy career site as a result of your disability. You may request reasonable accommodations by completing a general inquiry form on our website. Please include your contact information and specific details about your required accommodation to support you during the job application process. This accommodation channel is solely for job seekers with disabilities requiring accessibility assistance or an accommodation in the job application process. Messages left for other purposes will not receive a response.

Use of Al and automated tools in recruitment

As part of our recruitment process, Hitachi Energy uses digital and automated tools, including Al-supported solutions, to assist with activities such as application screening, job matching, and interview scheduling. These tools are designed to support our recruiters and do not replace human decision-making. Candidate data is processed in accordance with applicable data protection and employment laws as well as Hitachi’s Global Data Privacy Notice.

Hitachi brings together the world’s greatest minds to help breathe life into new possibilities – and drive innovation for a better future.

That’s why we look for individuals who share our pioneering spirit, have imaginative ideas and are fearless when it comes to tackling the world’s biggest challenges.

Every day they dedicate themselves to a huge range of exciting projects, contributing to the Hitachi vision around the globe.

From engineering new sustainability solutions that conserve water and energy to creating the infrastructure for the smart cities of tomorrow, there’s no challenge too great for our pioneers. And there’s no shortage of opportunities for you to make a difference.

Come and experience the dynamic, collaborative and creative environments where your ideas are welcome and new discoveries are waiting.

To help you grow to your full potential, we strive to support our employees in their career aspirations and promote the freedom to explore new horizons.

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