Continuous Improvement Specialist

Summary

Ottenweller Company, Inc. is seeking a hands-on Continuous Improvement (CI) Specialist to support and improve our metal fabrication processes. This role combines shop-floor continuous improvement with ownership of standard operating procedures.

The ideal candidate has real manufacturing experience, is comfortable on the shop floor, and can turn improved processes into clear, usable, operator-friendly documentation.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Improve and standardize metal fabrication processes

Own creation and maintenance of standard operating procedures that are clear, concise, and operator-friendly

Document tack welding, robotic welding, finish welding, assembly, machining, forming, etc. processes

Identify and reduce process variation, rework, and inefficiencies

Support continuous improvement efforts to reduce and eliminate non-value-added time

Work closely with engineering, welding, quality, and production teams

Assist with root cause analysis and corrective actions related to process performance

Support new part launches and process changes

Own the development, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of standard operating procedures

Spend regular time on the shop floor observing processes and engaging with operators

Gather feedback from operators to improve both processes and documentation

Encourage operator involvement in process improvement and documentation

Identify gaps where documentation or process controls are missing or outdated

Support leadership initiatives focused on operational excellence

Performs other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience

High school diploma or GED required

Technical degree, associate degree, or equivalent manufacturing experience.

3+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably metal fabrication.

Hands-on experience supporting or leading continuous improvement, process standardization, or standard operating procedure development

Working knowledge of welding and assembly processes preferred.

Experience working directly with operators, supervisors, and engineers on the shop floor

Preferred Experience with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and standardized work instructions

An equivalent combination of education, training, and hands-on manufacturing experience will be considered in place of a formal degree.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Employee is occasionally required to lift up to 30#. When operating equipment employee may be required to lift up to 50#.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the office work environment is usually quiet. The noise level in the shop is usually loud.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

This is a non-management position

This is a full time position