Process Improvement Engineer

Process Improvement Engineer

Morristown, TN

Greenworks Tools is the leader in battery-powered outdoor power tools for DIY-consumers and landscaping professionals. The company distributes Greenworks branded and private label products, as well as products for an extensive network of Original Equipment Manufacturers. With a robust line of Greenworks branded products, including 24-volt, G-MAX 40-volt, 60-volt, 80-volt, and commercial grade 40-volt Elite & 82-volt battery-powered outdoor power equipment, a full line of corded equipment, and power tools, Greenworks offers the right tool for every job. Utilizing best-in-class technology, Greenworks tools deliver the power and performance of comparable gas-powered tools without the mess, fumes, aggravating pull cords and noise associated with gas products. For more information, find us on the web at greenworkstools.com or greenworkscommercial.com.

The Process Improvement Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and sustaining continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, quality, productivity, delivery, and cost performance within Greenworks' manufacturing operations. This position partners with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Engineering teams to identify opportunities, eliminate waste, optimize manufacturing processes, and support operational excellence throughout the facility.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design, test, implement, and sustain process improvements that improve labor productivity, throughput, first-pass yield, safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
• Evaluate assembly line processes, material flow, workstation layouts, and production workflows within battery-powered outdoor power equipment manufacturing operations.
• Identify process bottlenecks, waste, quality issues, and cost reduction opportunities using data-driven analysis and structured problem-solving methods.
• Lead cross-functional continuous improvement initiatives, kaizen events, and process improvement workshops.
• Conduct time studies, work measurement, line balancing, and workflow analysis to optimize production efficiency and staffing requirements.
• Use Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, SPC, PFMEA, Control Plans, and root cause analysis tools such as 8D, Fishbone, and 5 Why.
• Support new product introductions (NPI), manufacturing readiness activities, equipment changes, and process validation efforts.
• Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, Materials, and Management teams to ensure successful implementation of process improvements.
• Ensure process improvements comply with safety, environmental, quality, and regulatory requirements.
• Track improvement results and report progress against operational goals and key performance indicators.
• Develop, update, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs, work instructions, process maps, training materials, and improvement project documentation.
• Train and support team members on new processes, work standards, technologies, and equipment to ensure consistent adoption.
• Support policies, procedures, and initiatives in support of business objectives.
• Perform all other duties as required.
• Follow all company safety guidelines, policies, and procedures.

Key Performance Indicators:

• Improve labor productivity, throughput, and production flow.
• Reduce process waste, manufacturing costs, scrap, and rework.
• Improve first-pass yield, quality metrics, and process stability.
• Support achievement of safety, quality, delivery, and cost goals.
• Lead continuous improvement projects that generate measurable operational savings.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field required.
• Three (3) or more years of manufacturing, process engineering, continuous improvement, industrial engineering, or operations experience preferred.
• Experience in assembly, automotive, consumer products, outdoor power equipment, or high-volume manufacturing environments preferred.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification preferred; Black Belt certification a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, manage projects from initiation to completion, and drive measurable improvements.
• Demonstrated professionalism, dependability, and strong teamwork skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and follow-through skills.
• Ability to influence operational teams through data-driven recommendations.
• Ability to manage priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping, PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC, time studies, work measurement, and root cause analysis methods.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel; experience with Power BI, Minitab, or similar analytical software preferred.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems preferred.
• Experience with AutoCAD, layout software, or similar process mapping tools preferred, if applicable.
• Ability to develop clear documentation, reports, presentations, standard work, and training materials.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, up to eight (8) hours per day.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures and noise levels.
• Ability to travel between production areas throughout the facility.

Travel Requirements:

Up to 10% travel may be required to support other Greenworks facilities, vendors, or training opportunities.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive annual base salary
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid sick leave, vacation, and holidays.

Greenworks Tools is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability (in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act) with respect to employment opportunities.