Sr. Continuous Improvement Specialist

Xylem is a Fortune 500 global water solutions company dedicated to advancing sustainable impact and empowering the people who make water work every day. As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem is at the forefront of addressing the world's most critical water challenges. We invite passionate individuals to join our team, dedicated to exceeding customer expectations through innovative and sustainable solutions. At Xylem, we’re united by a shared purpose: solving water challenges worldwide. As a global water technology leader, we create innovative solutions that help communities and industries transport, treat, analyze, and use water more efficiently. We’re looking for a Senior Continuous Improvement Specialist to join our team in Auburn, New York and play a key role in advancing operational excellence across our production facility. This is an opportunity for a driven improvement leader to make a visible impact by leading strategic initiatives, strengthening Lean capabilities, and helping shape a culture of continuous improvement. In this role, you’ll partner across functions to improve workflows, reduce waste, solve complex operational challenges, and deliver measurable results in cost, quality, and productivity. What You’ll Do Leading cross‑functional continuous improvement projects. Streamlining manufacturing and business processes. Driving initiatives focused on labor reduction, waste elimination, inventory optimization, and cost savings. Facilitating kaizen and rapid improvement events. Applying Lean Six Sigma tools to solve root‑cause issues. Supporting teams in removing barriers to performance. Serving as a change agent across the organization by influencing stakeholders, challenging outdated practices, and fostering a mindset of continuous learning and operational excellence. What We’re Looking For Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical field. 1–5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment using continuous improvement methodologies to deliver measurable business results. Strong understanding of Lean and CI tools, experience managing project plans for large‑scale initiatives, and the ability to work effectively in dynamic or evolving environments. Confidence leading change, influencing cross‑functional teams, and communicating clearly with stakeholders at all levels. Commitment to continued professional growth, including pursuit of advanced Lean or Six Sigma certifications. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt, or Lean certification. Experience in low‑volume, high‑mix manufacturing such as machining, assembly, or welding. Experience in a unionised environment. Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems. Advanced Microsoft Office skills, including Project and Visio. Experience with VBA programming or database querying is a plus. Work Environment and Physical Requirements The position is primarily office‑based but requires a regular onsite presence within the manufacturing facility in Auburn, NY. Routine movement throughout the facility, including standing, sitting, reaching, and bending, as well as light lifting of up to 20–25 pounds. Typical work hours are 40–45 hours per week. Travel is expected to be less than 10%. Benefits Medical, dental, and vision coverage beginning on day one. Paid parental leave. Fertility and maternity support. Paid time off. Company holidays. Retirement savings with company contribution. Tuition reimbursement. Student loan support. Emotional wellness resources. Employee recognition programmes. Opportunities to give back through volunteer initiatives such as the Watermark programme. Compensation: The estimated salary range for this position is $110,000 to $120,000 plus bonus. Starting pay is based on several factors, including experience, skills, and work location, and is not typically at the top of the range. Xylem does not provide visa sponsorship for this position. Proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity (including disability and veterans) and affirmative action workplace, Xylem fosters an inclusive environment free from discrimination or harassment. We also know that supporting our employees is essential to long‑term success. That’s why we offer a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support you professionally and personally. We prioritize our employees’ well-being through inclusion and belonging as well as our Employee Resource Groups (ERG). We celebrate inclusion and belonging in driving innovation and allow us to compete more effectively around the world. Work at Xylem is guided by the principles of inclusion and belonging, fundamental to how we enable our customers to tackle global water challenges. Learn more about our commitment to inclusion and belonging. #J-18808-Ljbffr