Continuous Improvement Leader - Clinton, IA

Continuous Improvement Leader - Clinton, IA

This is an exempt level position.

Position Summary:

The Continuous Improvement Leader is charged with leading diverse teams to identify and solve opportunities within the manufacturing process which improve various metrics, including personal safety, process safety, food safety, cost, efficiency, and throughput and profitability. This is a plant-based role with regular presence on the production floor.

Job Responsibilities:

• Process Optimization: Analyze existing starch and Fibersol production processes to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and waste. Implement improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other CI methodologies.
• Project Leadership: Lead and manage CI projects from concept to completion, ensuring alignment with business goals and measurable outcomes in yield, throughput, and cost reduction.
• Data Analysis: Collect and interpret process data to drive decision-making and validate improvement opportunities. Develop dashboards and KPIs to monitor performance.
• Standardization: Develop, document, and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices to ensure consistency and sustainability of improvements.
• Collaboration: Partner with Production, Quality, Maintenance, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams to align improvement initiatives with broader operational goals.
• Training & Coaching: Build CI capability within the team by training employees in Lean tools, problem-solving techniques, and performance management systems.
• Safety & Quality: Ensure all improvement initiatives maintain or enhance product quality, food safety, and employee safety standards.
• Reporting: Provide regular updates on CI initiatives, including performance metrics, project status, and financial impacts.

Required Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and leadership abilities.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI).
• Ability to influence and engage employees at all organizational levels.
• Knowledge of safety, quality, and environmental standards in food manufacturing.
• Demonstrated success in building/transforming CI within a manufacturing department.
• Excellent communication skills – both oral and written, listening and teamwork skills.

Education Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physical Science, or equivalent work experience.

Required Experience:

• 2+ years of experience in a production environment of food processing or similar industry.

Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.