Specialist, Continuous Improvement

Continuous Improvement Specialist

The Continuous Improvement Specialist will support the Transformation & Operational Excellence team in driving operational efficiency, business growth, and process optimization across the Miami facility and other FTAI Aviation locations. This role focuses on identifying improvement opportunities, leading CI initiatives, and supporting day-to-day operational needs—not on quality engineering or regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate brings strong problem-solving capabilities, experience in Lean/CI methodologies, and the ability to partner with cross-functional teams to streamline processes, reduce waste, and enhance productivity.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and facilitate Continuous Improvement initiatives that enhance quality, efficiency, and turnaround time.
• Lead Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen initiatives to improve engine disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and test processes.
• Identify bottlenecks and develop solutions to improve shop-floor processes, workflow, and resource utilization.
• Develop and maintain standard work, visual management systems, and process documentation.
• Track and report KPIs such as TAT, WIP levels, scrap/rework rates, labor efficiency, and on-time delivery.
• Use statistical tools to identify trends, variation, and improvement opportunities.
• Build dashboards and reporting mechanisms to support daily management and decision-making.
• Partner with key partners (quality, engineering, supply chain, production) to gather insight on processes to drive frontline ownership, validate process changes to initiate optimal performance.
• Train employees in Lean fundamentals, problem-solving, and standard work practices.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement through coaching, workshops, and daily Gemba walks.
• Support implementation of 5S, visual controls, and workplace organization.
• Implement improvements that support business growth objectives and operational scalability.
• Review and update procedures, work instructions, and operational documentation as needed, ensuring clarity and alignment with improved processes.
• Track CI project performance, measure results, and report progress to leadership.
• Support facility layout improvements to optimize flow, space utilization, and productivity.
• Maintain documentation related to CI initiatives, project approvals, and internal communication (clarified from previous version).

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, operations, aviation maintenance, or related discipline.
• 5 years of experience in an MRO environment, continuous improvement, aviation engine shop, or complex manufacturing operation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and experience with structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Experience leading cross-functional improvement initiatives.
• Fluent in English and Spanish.

Job Demands:

Work is performed in a shop environment and requires the ability to perform extensive standing, driving, walking, and climbing; to lift up to 50lbs. regularly; to manipulate up to 100lbs. with assistance. Must be able to bend, stoop, climb to reach materials, and work in a noisy environment.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement:

Our company is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), physical or mental disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.