Continuous Improvement Manager

Hayden Industrial, a leading manufacturer of industrial cooling systems, is seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager to lead and drive operational excellence initiatives across our manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for implementing and advancing Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other operational excellence methodologies to improve safety, quality, delivery, productivity, inventory management, and cost performance. The Continuous Improvement Manager will partner with leaders throughout the organization to establish and sustain a culture of continuous improvement and data-driven decision-making. Key Responsibilities: Lead and execute Hayden Industrial's Continuous Improvement strategy and roadmap. Facilitate Lean Manufacturing initiatives including Kaizen events, Value Stream Mapping (VSM), 5S, Visual Management, Standard Work, and waste reduction activities. Develop, maintain, and analyze Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure operational performance and improvement opportunities. Lead root cause analysis and corrective action activities to address operational challenges. Drive cross-functional initiatives focused on Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, and Employee Engagement (SQDCE). Coach, mentor, and train employees and leaders on Lean principles and Continuous Improvement methodologies. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Standard Work documentation. Identify and implement process improvements that increase throughput, reduce lead times, improve productivity, and enhance customer satisfaction. Implement mistake-proofing (Poka-Yoke) and error reduction initiatives. Partner with Production, Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, and Maintenance teams to improve operational performance. Track project savings and communicate financial impacts of improvement initiatives. Support ERP system enhancements and process standardization efforts. Lead Gemba Walks and support daily management systems. Assist with capacity planning, workflow optimization, and resource utilization. Develop dashboards and executive-level reporting to communicate performance and project results. Benchmark industry best practices and recommend improvements to maintain competitive operational performance. Education and Experience: Education: Bachelor's Degree required. Industrial Engineering or Mechanical Engineering preferred. Degrees in Manufacturing Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related field may also be considered. Experience: Minimum of seven (7) years of experience in a manufacturing environment with a strong focus on Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, or Operational Excellence. Minimum of three (3) years of management or supervisory experience, including employee development, performance management, and organizational change leadership. Minimum of three (3) years leading Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement initiatives with measurable, documented results. Experience in HVAC manufacturing, heavy manufacturing, fabrication, or industrial equipment manufacturing strongly preferred. Demonstrated success leading cross-functional teams and influencing stakeholders at all organizational levels. Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and achieving business objectives. Track record of measurable improvements in productivity, quality, safety, cost reduction, and on-time delivery. Experience utilizing data analysis and problem-solving methodologies to drive operational improvements. Hayden Industrial has determined this position involves safety-sensitive job duties and will be considered a safety-sensitive position for purpose of the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana and Patient Protection Act (“The Unity Bill”) effective August 29, 2019. Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Frequent walking throughout manufacturing and warehouse areas; ability to stand for extended periods; ability to bend, stoop, kneel, climb ladders, and traverse production environments; occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds; and ability to conduct observations and assessments throughout the facility. Position Type / Expected Hours of Work: This is a full-time exempt position. Work schedules may vary based on operational needs. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required to support Continuous Improvement initiatives, Kaizen events, project implementation, and business objectives. Travel: Limited travel may be required for training, benchmarking activities, industry events, or visits to supplier and customer locations. Benefits: Hayden Industrial offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. AAP/EEO Statement: Hayden Industrial is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination. All applicants and employees will be afforded equal opportunity regardless of age, race, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, or any other protected status under applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Hayden Industrial