Continuous Improvement Manager

The Continuous Improvement Manager oversees the CI vision cascaded down from the Director of Continuous Improvement. The CI Manager assists in the strategic planning and implements the strategy to support overall performance improvement objectives. You will coach and mentor

employees on lean methodology, tools, root-cause analysis and waste reduction to achieve sustainable and continued improvements in the areas of safety, quality, delivery, cost and growth. Another aspect of this role will be coordinating training and development of all team members.

Employee Type:

Full time

Location:

ND Grand Forks

Job Type:

Supply Chain Continuous Improvement

Job Posting Title:

Continuous Improvement Manager

Job Description:

Schedule: 1st shift, Monday-Friday, with flexibility as needed

Work Location: 1801 N 36th St, Grand Forks, ND

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) with match, STD/LTD/AD&D/Life, HSA, FSA, EAP, Hospital indemnity, Accident Insurance, Identity and Fraud Protection Plan, Legal, and Critical Illness.

Salary, based on experience and other qualifications: $93,000 - $138,000 annually with additional bonus potential

• Leads the Continuous Improvement process (e.g. mindsets, practices and culture), working with staff and leadership to develop, implement and sustain a CI program based upon Lean principles that support meeting plant performance targets and financial goals.

• Coaches and Mentors employees on lean methodology, tools, root-cause analysis and waste reduction to achieve sustainable and continued improvements in the areas of safety, quality, delivery, cost and growth. Coordinates training and development of all team members.

• Leads, identifies and defines scope of Continuous Improvement projects and activities.

• Leverages data and observational analysis to identify improvement opportunities.

• Sits on the site’s Steering Team as the key strategic resource to organize and execute the business’ improvement activities.

• Participates in Lean events with other CI resources to apply CI methodologies and promote skill-transfer.

• Serves as a subject matter expert for Winland’s Management Operating Structure.

• Experience leading cost-savings projects of high value and complexity from ideation and chartering through successful completion and sustainment.

• Involvement in the formulation of long-term improvement strategies to deliver annual business plans.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Job Requirements:

Strong analytical capabilities related to business, including the interpretation of financial summaries and identifying the drivers of performance results. Ability to lead through influence, mentorship and coaching to get results through others. Deep understanding of Lean Manufacturing/Continuous Improvement methodologies and ability to teach and model them. Food manufacturing technical inventory experience is a plus.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education

High School Diploma/GED, OR equivalent work experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience required; Bachelor’s Degree (Business, Supply Chain, Operations Management, Engineering) preferred.

Skills

Ability to read, write and interpret documents. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers. Ability to speak with vendors in a professional manner. Ability to define problems, collect data, establishes facts and draw valid conclusions.

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 job. Required to lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds, with a maximum distance required to carry 50 pounds of 100 feet at least 75% of the time. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, push/pull, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl, reach with hands and arms and walk up to 1/3 of the time; Sit, use hands to finger, handle or feel 2/3 of the time; talk or hear 1⁄2 the time

Environmental Conditions

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The noise level in the work environment is moderate to loud. Have the ability to perform all above tasks in an environment of 90 degrees F or greater up to 50% of the time.

Safety Responsibilities

Be able to work and perform tasks related to safety. Be able to wear appropriate hearing protection for part of the shift. To be able to work safely in and around equipment at all times

EEO Statement:

Winland Foods seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool, and as a global company we believe our success is enhanced by fostering equity and inclusion in the workplace. Therefore, Winland Foods is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military or veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

About Us

At Winland Foods, we’re passionate about creating exceptional food experiences that bring people together. We are a dynamic and growing company specializing in meal preparation products—from pasta and sauces to plant-based proteins and more. Our portfolio includes beloved consumer brands and custom private-label solutions for retail and foodservice channels.

Why Work With Us?

We believe in being exceptional from the land to the table . That means:

• Commitment to Quality: We consistently exceed industry standards across our value chain.

• Sustainability & Responsibility: We prioritize environmental stewardship and make a positive impact on the world around us.

• People First: The safety, well-being, and growth of our employees are at the heart of everything we do.

Our Culture

We’re a team of food enthusiasts who value collaboration, innovation, and integrity. At Winland Foods, you’ll find an environment where your ideas matter, your contributions are recognized, and your career can thrive.

Explore Opportunities

At Winland Foods, you’ll find opportunities across operations, supply chain, marketing, and product development—roles where your work truly makes an impact. By joining our team, you become part of a forward-thinking organization that values passion, collaboration, and shared success with our customers. Together, we’re shaping the future of food.

To All Recruitment Agencies

Winland Foods does not accept unsolicited agency resumes/CVs. Please do not forward resumes/CVs to Winland Foods employees, or any company location(s). Winland Foods is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes/CVs.