Continuous Improvement Specialist

Continuous Improvement Specialist

A growing manufacturing organization is seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist to drive operational excellence initiatives across multiple facilities and departments. This individual will be responsible for identifying opportunities to improve productivity, quality, safety, and efficiency through the application of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.

The ideal candidate will be a hands-on problem solver who enjoys working cross-functionally to streamline processes, eliminate waste, reduce costs, and support a culture of continuous improvement. This position requires approximately 20-30% travel to support operations, projects, and improvement initiatives across multiple locations.

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Evaluate existing manufacturing and operational processes to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, cost reduction, and process optimization.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing principles and methodologies to reduce waste and improve operational performance.
• Facilitate process improvement activities using tools such as Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, and Root Cause Analysis.
• Develop and implement solutions that improve efficiency, increase throughput, and reduce defects.

Process Analysis & Project Leadership

• Analyze operational data, performance metrics, and key business indicators to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
• Lead quality and process improvement projects from concept through implementation.
• Conduct root cause investigations and corrective action activities related to manufacturing and operational challenges.
• Design and recommend workflow improvements, process layouts, and facility optimization opportunities.
• Support equipment installations, process modifications, and operational improvement initiatives.

Training & Collaboration

• Develop and deliver training programs related to Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement tools.
• Partner with production, engineering, quality, maintenance, supply chain, and leadership teams to align improvement efforts with business objectives.
• Drive employee engagement and participation in continuous improvement activities.
• Promote best practices and standardization across operations.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure improvement initiatives align with established safety standards and operational requirements.
• Support the development of processes that enhance workplace safety while improving efficiency and quality.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts related to compliance and operational risk reduction.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of three years of experience applying Lean Manufacturing principles within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Experience leading process improvement and operational excellence initiatives.
• Strong project management, data analysis, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including formulas, pivot tables, data sorting, filtering, and reporting functions.
• Ability to effectively communicate with employees and leaders at all levels of the organization.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt, Black Belt, or equivalent).
• Experience facilitating Kaizen events and cross-functional improvement teams.
• Exposure to statistical analysis techniques and process performance measurement.
• Experience supporting manufacturing operations, production processes, or industrial facilities.

Desired Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and waste elimination strategies.
• Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies including Six Sigma, 5S, Kaizen, and Value Stream Mapping.
• Ability to analyze data and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Experience with process mapping, workflow design, and performance measurement systems.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes and operational best practices.

Professional Skills

• Strong analytical and critical-thinking abilities.
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation capabilities.
• Ability to influence and build relationships across multiple departments.
• Strong leadership and project facilitation skills.
• High level of accountability and execution focus.
• Adaptable and comfortable managing change in a dynamic environment.

Work Environment

• Primarily based within manufacturing and operational environments.
• Frequent interaction with production, engineering, quality, and leadership teams.
• Approximately 20-30% travel required to support multiple facilities and improvement initiatives.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits program.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Opportunity to make a measurable impact on operational performance and business results.

Benefits

The organization offers a competitive benefits package that may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• Retirement savings plan with employer-sponsored options
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Employee assistance programs
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Additional voluntary benefit options

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act
• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Pay Details: $60,000.00 to $100,000.00 per year