Continuous Improvement Engineer

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TITLE: Continuous Improvement Engineer

SUPERVISED BY: Plant Manager

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Continuous Improvement Engineer will assess and analyze plant processes and designs to develop improved systems and support continuous improvements in productivity, efficiency, and safety. The Continuous Improvement Engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams to drive improvements that enhance product quality, streamline operations, and ensure a safe and effective work environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Evaluate and assess existing manufacturing processes, equipment, and plant layouts to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement optimized processes and systems that improve overall productivity, product quality, and efficiency while reducing waste and downtime.
• Work closely with the safety team to ensure all improvements comply with regulatory requirements and enhance plant safety, minimizing risks and hazards in the production environment.
• Gather and analyze performance data, including production metrics, quality control reports, and safety records, to guide improvement strategies.
• Apply Lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and other continuous improvement tools to optimize workflows, reduce waste, and improve overall plant performance.
• Collaborate with production teams, maintenance, quality assurance, and other departments to implement process changes and improve cross-functional communication.
• Provide training and guidance to plant staff on continuous improvement practices, safety protocols, and new process standards to ensure long-term success.
• Lead problem-solving initiatives and root cause analyses for process disruptions, product defects, or safety incidents, and develop corrective measures.
• Oversee and manage continuous improvement projects, ensuring that they are completed on time, within budget, and meet expected performance goals.
• Monitor the effectiveness of implemented changes, generate progress reports, and present findings to plant management to ensure the sustainability of improvements.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Leadership
• Thoroughness
• Time Management
• Project Management
• Problem Solving Analysis
• Technical Abilities
• Teamwork Orientation and Leadership
• Communication Proficiency
• Safety

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience

Any combination of education and experience likely to provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities, typically:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering, Food Engineering, Lean Manufacturing Engineering, or related field
• 4+ years of experience in process improvement, engineering, or operations within a food manufacturing environment.
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Self-motivated and able to work well in a fast-paced environment.
• Able to maintain regular and consistent attendance.
• Effective communication skills with the ability to convey technical information clearly to all stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic manufacturing environment.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for identifying inefficiencies.
• Familiarity with food safety regulations, HACCP, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
• Strong project management skills with the ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one conversations with other employees in the organization.
• Able to develop and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to read and interpret policies and procedures.
• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.
• Ability to operate machinery.
• Ability to work in an environment with moderate to high noise level.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job with or without accommodations.

• 50% Office, 50% Plant
• Noise level in the work environment is usually noise level (moderate, loud) within plant.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job with or without accommodations.

• Perform tasks requiring reaching, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, walking, talk, and hear.
• Requires ability to lift or move objects up to 50 pounds.
• Sustain frequent movement of the fingers, wrists, hands, and arms.
• Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and focus.
• Stand, walk, and/or sit for sustained periods of time on a daily basis.