Continuous Improvement Manager

Fiber Materials Inc. | solutions for the most extreme places in the universe

FMI's manufacturing facility has been a leading solutions provider of high temperature materials and composites for more than 50 years, serving the Department of Defense and NASA. The focus in Maine is on multidirectional reinforced Carbon/Carbon (C/C) and Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) that enable high-temperature components such as: thermal protection systems, re-entry vehicle nose tips as well as rocket motor throats and nozzles. 

Our materials are being used on ground-breaking space initiatives such as the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle and the heat shield for NASA's Mars 2020 mission, important missile programs, airfoils in commercial and military jet engines, and as lightweight armor for U.S. military ground vehicles. 

Your role:  FMI  is seeking a Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager to provide leadership in leading, developing, and sustaining a culture of operational excellence across the organization in alignment with AS9100 standards and internal/customer requirements. This role will drive process improvements, waste reduction, and performance optimization through structured methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Root Cause Analysis. The CI Manager will partner cross-functionally with manufacturing, quality, engineering, supply chain, and leadership teams to enhance efficiency, product quality, and compliance while supporting strategic business objectives as well as training to applicable staff members.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and execution of the company’s continuous improvement strategy aligned with AS9100 requirements and organizational goals
• Facilitate and coach teams at all levels of the organization in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen events, & problem-solving methodologies
• Identify improvement opportunities through data analysis, process mapping, & performance metrics (KPIs)
• Lead, schedule & facilitate CI initiatives, project & targeted events that align with business priorities
• Drive root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA) to resolve systemic issues & prevent recurrence
• Define procedures and guidelines that support Lean practices across the organization
• Partner with Quality to ensure compliance with AS9100 standards, internal procedures, and customer/regulatory requirements
• Develop and maintain standardized processes, work instructions, and visual management systems
• Lead cross-functional improvement projects focused on safety, quality, delivery, & cost (SQDC)
• Establish and monitor performance metrics to measure effectiveness of improvement initiatives
• Support internal and external audits by ensuring processes are robust, documented, and consistently followed
• Provide training and mentoring to employees at all levels on continuous improvement tools and methodologies
• Promote a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous learning throughout the organization
• Collaborate with leadership to prioritize improvement initiatives aligned with strategic objectives
• Be knowledgeable of and comply with all company policies, practices & standards

What we need from you:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Manufacturing, Business or related field
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing or aerospace environments
• 3+ years of experience leading continuous improvement initiatives
• Demonstrated experience working within an AS9100, ISO 9001 or equivalent quality management system Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification (or equivalent) 
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies including, but not limited to Process Mapping, SIPOC, Cause & Effect Matrices, DFMEAs, PFMEAs, Control Plans & Gage R&R
• In-depth understanding of AS9100 standards and quality management systems (QMS)
• Proven ability to lead root cause analysis (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys, Fishbone) and implement sustainable solutions
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to interpret complex data
• Excellent project management & organizational skills
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive results in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis tools

Preferred:

• Master’s degree (MBA or technical discipline)
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification (or equivalent)
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or highly regulated manufacturing environments
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and initiatives
• Experience with ERP systems, Electronic QMS and manufacturing data systems
• Knowledge of advanced statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP, etc.)
• Familiarity with visual management systems and digital dashboards
• Change management experience in a manufacturing environment

What you'll get from us:

• 16 ETO days
• 12 paid holidays (including Winter Closure!)
• Medical / Dental / Vision
• 401k Company Match
• Tuition Reimbursement
• The anticipated salary range for this position is $80,000-$125,000 dependent on experience