Continuous Improvement Leader

Continuous Improvement LeaderPosition OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Continuous Improvement Leader to lead operational excellence initiatives across our manufacturing operations. The Continuous Improvement Leader will own and drive Lean, CI and process-improvement programs to increase productivity, reduce waste, and improve quality and safety. This role requires a proven track record in manufacturing environments, Green Belt certification, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams to deliver measurable results.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and deploy CI and Lean strategies aligned with business objectives to drive operational excellence across manufacturing sites.Lead, mentor and coach cross-functional teams in problem-solving methodologies (e.g., DMAIC, PDCA) to deliver sustainable process improvements.Plan and manage CI projects from identification through implementation and sustainment, ensuring projects deliver expected benefits (cost, quality, lead time, safety).Use data analysis and performance metrics (KPIs) to identify improvement opportunities, track progress, and report results to leadership.Facilitate value stream mapping, kaizen events, 5S, waste elimination, standardized work, and other Lean tools to improve flow and reduce variation.Develop training materials and deliver Lean/CI training programs, including Green Belt coaching and certification support for team members.Collaborate with engineering, production, maintenance, quality, and supply chain to ensure improvements are integrated and sustained within daily operations.Manage change by building stakeholder alignment, communicating benefits, and implementing control plans to prevent backsliding.QualificationsGreen Belt certification in Lean Six Sigma (required) Black Belt preferred.5+ years of continuous improvement experience in a manufacturing environment, with demonstrated success leading CI projects.Strong knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles, CI methodologies, DMAIC, kaizen, value stream mapping, 5S, and standardized work.Proven experience delivering operational excellence initiatives with measurable outcomes (OEE, cycle time, first-pass yield, safety metrics).Experience leading cross-functional teams and influencing at all organizational levels, with excellent communication and change-management skills.Proficient in data analysis and improvement tools (Minitab, Excel, process mapping software) and comfortable using KPIs and visual management.Bachelors degree in engineering, industrial engineering, operations management, or related field preferred; or equivalent practical experience.Ability and willingness to travel between manufacturing sites as required.Benefits- Vacation/PTO- Medical- Dental- Vision- 401k