Continuous Improvement Manager

About the Role We’re looking for motivated and engaged people to help make everyone’s journeys better. The role is responsible for analyzing material and information flows for the operations unit to identify opportunities for improvement in productivity, material consumption, operational expenses, quality, safety, and space utilization. Target Salary Range: $95k - $100k. Responsibilities Plans and guides unit management in productivity, material, waste, safety, and quality improvement initiatives; analyzes material and information flows; quantifies the effects of improved processes, work flows, and opportunities for productivity, material consumption, operational expenses, and space utilization. Supports and drives continuous process improvements utilizing Lean Manufacturing principles to maximize departmental efficiencies, minimize waste, and improve safety. Responsible for the gateOPEX standardization program rollout. Communicates with unit management and leadership on implementation of changes. Secures relevance and availability of production system road maps and blue‑prints. Performs diagnostics on major cost drivers, including material, labor, and OOC. Makes documented proposals for improvements and coordinates with unit management on implementation; supports management and associates in the overall change process. Practices change management and actively participates in the unit’s performance management system and dialogue; presents progress and plans to company executives and liaises with corporate and area continuous improvement resources. Proposes and stays current with company best practices and benchmark initiatives. Coaches other continuous improvement staff and leads training and presentation sessions. Trains and builds capability at all levels of the plant regarding Lean Manufacturing. Works on all related training materials and collaborates with team members to identify improvements, additions, corrections, or clarifications to the materials provided. Works with Lean Manufacturing tools and techniques such as 8 Waste (muda), Just in Time (takt‑flow‑pull), Value Stream Mapping, Kanban system, problem solving, FIFO, 5S, and workplace organization, including layout changes when necessary. Participates in cross‑site/area cross‑fertilization. Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree in Business Economics, Science, Industrial Engineering, or a related field (required). Minimum four (4) years’ experience in Lean Manufacturing or related Industrial Engineering experience (required). Minimum of 2 years supervisory experience in a high‑volume manufacturing, food production, restaurant, or catering environment (preferred). Experience leading cross‑organizational projects and maintaining mandatory safety and quality standards (required). Experience analyzing operations, cost drivers, material and information flows, and productivity and operational expenses (required). Experience with Lean Manufacturing techniques, including Just in Time (takt‑flow‑pull), 5S, workplace organization, value stream mapping, and Kanban system (preferred). Technical Skills Strong computer skills using Microsoft Office products, including Excel. Ability to work autonomously with an analytical mind. Ability to work in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment. Excellent time‑management skills. Ability to handle multiple tasks without losing focus on priorities. Strong organizational, analytical, and leadership skills. Innovative mindset for operational improvement. Ability to work effectively with diverse work groups and all levels of the operation. Exposure to AutoCAD is a plus. 6‑Sigma or Lean Manufacturing Certification preferred. ServSafe Certification preferred; ability to obtain ServSafe Certification required. Language & Communication Excellent oral and written communication skills. Proficiency in Spanish (preferred). Benefits Paid time off. 401(k) with company match. Company‑sponsored life insurance. Medical, dental, and vision plans. Voluntary short‑term/long‑term disability insurance. Voluntary life, accident, and hospital plans. Employee Assistance Program. Employee discounts. Free hot healthy meals for unit operations roles. gategroup is an equal opportunity employer committed to workforce diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability status, or any other category under applicable law. We anticipate that this job will close on: 05/31/2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr gategroup