Principal CI Engineer

ABOUT CIRCORJoin a Team That Powers the Mission-Critical.At CIRCOR Aerospace & Defense, we don’t just build pumps and valves—we engineer the heartbeat of the world’s most advanced naval fleets. From our historic Warren, MA facility—home to the legacies of Warren Pumps and Portland Valve - we design and manufacture high-performance fluid control systems that protect those who protect us.We are building precision technology that operates in the harshest environments on earth—on submarines deep below the surface, on ships safeguarding freedom at sea, and in missions where failure is not an option. By joining the CIRCOR team, you will be contributing to safeguarding people, vessels, and missions around the world. We’re a global team of over 3,100 people across 100+ countries, united by a single purpose: to keep the world safe, moving, and resilient. As our mission expands, so does our need for exceptional talent and we are looking for driven individuals to grow with us.At CIRCOR, your expertise fuels something bigger. Every idea you share and every detail you craft contributes to the safety and success of those who serve. We offer more than a job – we offer a career driven by purpose, powered by innovation, and supported by a team that stands behind you.Because here, you don’t just make products. You make a difference.PRINCIPAL CI ENGINEERPosition SummaryThe Principal Continuous Improvement Engineer is committed to driving operational excellence at the Warren, MA site. This key position will standardize and scale best-in-class manufacturing practices, enhance efficiency, and foster a lean culture focused on performance, quality, and continuous improvement. This position requires a dynamic individual with deep expertise in lean principles, process control, and cross-functional collaboration.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESLead and execute Continuous Improvement initiatives, in support of Integrated Program Teams, to drive synergy and operational alignment.Develop and implement standard processes, including core / non-core activities, with robust SOPs and control plans.Champion lean tools and techniques (5S, SIPOC, PFMEA, MSA, SMED, TPM, Kanban, Line Balancing, VRK) to optimize manufacturing performance.Establish and govern standard work for manufacturing, materials flow, and shop execution.Drive initiatives to reduce cycle times, improve efficiency, and enhance labor/machine capacity planning.Support materials and inventory management transformation through PFEP, RACI, and reverse scheduling (line-back logistics).Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Planning, Quality, and Engineering to ensure alignment with CI goals.Utilize data-driven decision making, statistical tools, and six sigma principles to drive measurable improvements.Build and sustain a culture of continuous improvement by mentoring teams and embedding lean thinking across the organization.CANDIDATE PROFILEKnowledge, Skills & AbilitiesExpertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and statistical analysis tools.Excellent communication and leadership skills with a collaborative mindset.Ability to influence at all levels of the organization and manage cross-functional projects.Preferred Qualifications:Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent certificationExperience with SIOP (Sales, Inventory & Operations Planning)Advanced knowledge of constraint management, SWIP, and strategic bufferingStrong working knowledge of ERP systems (IFS preferred) and manufacturing execution systemsDemonstrated experience in capacity planning, inventory control, and material flow designEDUCATION & EXPERIENCEBachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred)8+ years of experience in Operations, Industrial Engineering, Lean/CI, or Materials/Planning rolesProven success leading CI initiativesOtherU.S. CitizenCOMPANY BACKGROUNDCIRCOR International is one of the world’s leading providers of mission critical flow control products and services for the Industrial and Aerospace & Defense markets. The Company has a product portfolio of market-leading brands serving its customers’ most demanding applications. CIRCOR markets its solutions directly and through various sales partners to more than 14,000 customers in approximately 100 countries. The Company has a global presence with approximately 3,100 employees with headquarters in Burlington, Massachusetts. For more information visit our website at .In late 2023, CIRCOR was acquired by the private equity firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P. (together with its affiliates, “KKR”). The news release is available here along with additional information about KKR and its unique approach to employee ownership can be found at the end of this document.Equal Opportunity StatementCIRCOR is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Individuals with disabilities, veterans, women, and minorities are encouraged to apply.BENEFITSWhy Work at CIRCOREmployee Ownership Program:As part of CIRCOR’s acquisition by KKR, you’re not just an employee – you are an owner. All employees are owners of the company and everyone has a stake in the company’s success. Our ownership culture fosters a sense of pride and accountability, driving innovation and excellence across all levels of the company. Since 2011, KKR portfolio companies have awarded billions of dollars of total equity value to over 60,000 non-senior management employees, demonstrating how broad-based engagement and alignment can create business value while driving greater financial inclusion.Other Benefits Include: Generous paid time off policyMedical, Dental, Vision Insurance available first dayCompany Paid Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability InsuranceEducational Assistance401k with company matchEmployee Referral Bonus ProgramJob SummaryRequisition Number: PRINC003214Job Category: Cont ImprovementSchedule: Full-Time