Continuous Improvement Engineer

Continuous Improvement Engineer

Department: Production Support

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Summerville, SC

Description

At Thorne, we work to deliver high-quality, science-backed solutions to empower individuals to take a proactive approach to their well-being. Each day begins with a mission to help others discover and achieve their best health. We count on our team members to challenge and push the boundaries to make that happen. At Thorne, you'll be joining a team of more than 750 passionate individuals committed to our cause of providing superior health solutions at every age and life stage.
The Continuous Improvement Engineer drives operational excellence by identifying opportunities to improve safety, quality, productivity, and efficiency across Thorne's manufacturing, logistics, and business operations. This role partners with cross-functional teams to analyze processes, eliminate waste, optimize workflows, and implement sustainable solutions that enhance operational performance and support the company's long-term growth.

Using Lean manufacturing principles, data analysis, process engineering, and human-centered design, the Continuous Improvement Engineer leads initiatives that improve manufacturing processes, facility layouts, material flow, and standard work. The ideal candidate is a collaborative problem solver with strong analytical skills, a passion for continuous improvement, and the ability to influence change across multiple functional areas while ensuring improvements align with Thorne's quality, safety, and operational goals.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, quality, productivity, operational efficiency, and cost performance across manufacturing, logistics, and supply chain operations.
• Analyze existing workflows, production processes, and operational performance to identify bottlenecks, eliminate waste, and implement sustainable process improvements.
• Develop and optimize work methods, labor standards, standard work, and operational control systems that improve resource utilization and overall manufacturing performance.
• Design and optimize facility layouts, material flow, workstation configurations, and staffing models to improve efficiency, ergonomics, and operational effectiveness.
• Conduct time studies, capacity analyses, and data-driven evaluations to develop production standards, labor models, cost analyses, and operational forecasts.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs), translating operational data into actionable insights and recommendations that drive informed decision-making and measurable business results.
• Partner with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, and other cross-functional teams to define process requirements, implement improvements, and establish standardized operating practices.
• Facilitate root cause investigations and implement corrective actions using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, A3 problem solving, Value Stream Mapping, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Coach and mentor cross-functional teams on Lean principles, continuous improvement tools, and problem-solving techniques to build a culture of operational excellence.
• Support the development, implementation, and governance of Continuous Improvement programs by tracking project performance, ensuring accountability, and sustaining improvements across the organization.
• Design and implement solutions that improve workplace safety, employee engagement, and regulatory compliance while supporting operational goals.

WHAT YOU NEED

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification required; Black Belt certification strongly preferred.
• 3+ years of experience in Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related role within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience leading Lean, Six Sigma, or operational improvement initiatives that deliver measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, cost, or productivity.
• Experience working cross-functionally to implement process improvements and drive organizational change.

Technical Knowledge

• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma methodologies, Value Stream Mapping, A3 problem solving, Kaizen, 5S, and Root Cause Analysis.
• Ability to analyze operational data, interpret key performance indicators (KPIs), and develop actionable recommendations that improve business performance.
• Experience developing standard work, labor standards, process documentation, and operational metrics.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing operations, process flow, capacity planning, and continuous improvement best practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis tools; experience with ERP, MES, or manufacturing reporting systems is a plus.

Core Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate complex operational challenges and develop practical, data-driven solutions.
• Excellent facilitation, coaching, and change management skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Ability to think strategically while executing tactical improvement initiatives that support long-term operational goals.
• Strong understanding of how manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and support functions interact to achieve business objectives.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present findings, recommendations, and project results to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Highly organized and self-motivated with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently while maintaining attention to detail.
• Collaborative team player with a passion for continuous learning, operational excellence, and driving sustainable process improvements.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive compensation
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage for employees
• Company-paid short- and long-term disability insurance
• Company- paid life insurance
• 401k plan with employer matching contributions up to 4%
• Gym membership reimbursement
• Monthly allowance of Thorne supplements
• Paid time off, volunteer time off and holiday leave
• Training, professional development, and career growth opportunities