Manager, Continuous Improvement

• Job Identification
  118569
  
• Job Category
  Quality
  
• Posting Date
  07/24/2026, 07:57 PM
  
• Locations
  630 E Lambert Rd., Brea, CA, 92821, US
  (On-site)
  
  
  
• Job Schedule
  Full time
  
• Export-Controlled Data
  This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant's ability to lawfully obtain access to such items
  

Job Description

A Continuous Improvement (CI) Engineer is a manufacturing and process optimization professional who applies Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other improvement methodologies to identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, and enhance productivity and quality across operations. The CI Engineer drives the implementation of continuous improvement initiatives to streamline production processes, improve quality, and meet organizational goals. They work closely with cross-functional teams to integrate improvements across the organization. These teams include Operations, Engineering, Processing, Quality, and Tooling.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze manufacturing and production processes to identify areas for improvement; implement Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to optimize workflows
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data (KPIs, process audits, FMEA, SPC) to measure improvement effectiveness
• Lead and facilitate Kaizen events, process audits, and improvement projects; manage timelines, resources, and deliverables
• Develop and maintain process documentation, standard operating procedures, and standardized work charts
• Work with engineering, QA, EHS, supply chain, and operations to integrate improvements and ensure sustainability
• Train and mentor staff on new processes, tools, and improvement techniques.
• Select, develop, and maintain tools, fixtures, and equipment to support process improvements
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations; contribute to EHS initiatives
• Other duties as assigned to meet department goals

Required Education and Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering: industrial, mechanical, manufacturing, or related field; advanced degrees preferred
• Certifications : Lean, Six Sigma (Black Belt), ISO/TS 16949, Kaizen, 5S, TPM, DMAIC
• 7+ years in manufacturing, production planning, or process improvement; experience with APQP, FMEA, SPC, MSA
• Previous supervisory experience leading salaried teams of 4-7+
• Knowledge of ERP (JDE), MS Office Suite and productivity tools.
• Strong problem-solving, statistical analysis, project management, and communication skills; proficiency in MS Office, ERP systems, and process mapping tools
• Effective verbal and written communications skills at all levels of the organization, especially with direct employees
• This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicant's ability to lawfully obtain access to such items

Salary Range:

The base pay range for this position in California, $140,000 - $170,000/year. Pay is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. A sign-on payment may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered.

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers' success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at Follow: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

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