Continuous Improvement Specialist (Full Time)
Department: All Openings
Position Summary:
The Continuous Improvement Specialist objective is to improve the business and deliver products more effectively through the implementation of lean principles. The position is responsible for supporting the lean transformation and daily management initiatives by ensuring strategies are implemented, and principles/practices/tools are incorporated in the culture and processes under transformation. Evaluates all continuous improvement activities and implements plans to optimize performance and processes. Performs data analysisto support operational excellence initiatives by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to drive process improvements. Focuses mainly on manufacturing and working closely with other areas of the business, implements and supports actions that bring about improvements which may include, but are not limited to safety, productivity, quality, delivery, cycle, growth, inventory and customer value proposition.
Essential Job Functions
Perform problem solving processes and design functions for all areas of manufacturing. Research equipment purchasing and interface with vendors. Act as liaison between design and manufacturing related departments.
• Lead, develop and sustain a Lean Transformation within all manufacturing processes
• Collect, analyze, and visualize operational data to identify trends, bottlenecks, and opportunities for improvement
• Develop and maintain dashboards, reports, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor process performance. Learn and write Piper BI reports. Leverages data extracted from ERP / LN
• Support automation and digital transformation initiatives by optimizing data collection and reporting processes
• Work with the businesses to identify process opportunities to improve quality, productivity, cost and inventory levels
• Conduct root cause analysis and provide data-driven recommendations to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
• Support lean initiatives in all manufacturing areas, focused on process improvement to improve quality and reduce waste with clear measurable outcomes
• Identify and facilitate continuous improvement opportunities, training and workshops driving cultural change by analyzing business data and implementing industry best practices
• Act as a change agent within the business to educate and influence Team members on process implementation and improvements
• Leads and facilitates Kaizen events to drive sustainable improvements
• Teach, promote, and practice lean principles, data analysis tools, and methodologies
• Tracks and analyzes the Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives
• Building cultural change throughout the organization
• Develop and provide training to the team members on lean manufacturing tools such as 5S, VSM, standard work, problem solving, visual management, etc.
• Responsible for managing multiple projects and at the same time with effective prioritization
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Education and Experience
• Bachelor degree in Engineering, Business, Data Analytics or related field preferred; or High school diploma or general education degree (GED); and one to three years related experience and training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in Kaizen, Six Sigma, continuous improvement methodology, 5S, VSM, standard work, problem solving, visual management, KPI’s and kanban.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and adapt to sudden changes in project priorities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to resolve conflicts effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience leading and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Preferred Data Analysis Experience
• Proficiency in data visualization tools (MS Excel, Power BI or Tableau).
• Experience with SQL or other data analysis tools is a plus.
• Experience in manufacturing, supply chain, or operational environments.
• Familiarity with ERP or MES systems for data extraction and reporting.
