Continuous Improvement Specialist

Somic America is seeking a motivated and results-driven Continuous Improvement Specialist to lead and implement continuous improvement initiatives throughout our manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for identifying opportunities, leading Kaizen activities, reducing waste, improving processes, and supporting company objectives related to Safety, Quality, Productivity, Cost Reduction, and Employee Engagement.

The ideal candidate will be passionate about Lean Manufacturing principles, possess strong project leadership skills, and have the ability to work collaboratively across all levels of the organization.

Key Responsibilities Continuous Improvement & Kaizen Leadership Develop and execute an annual Kaizen activity plan aligned with company goals and objectives.

Lead and participate in continuous improvement projects focused on:

Safety improvements

Quality enhancement

Productivity gains

Cost reduction

Workplace organization and efficiency

Identify opportunities for process improvement throughout the plant.

Facilitate Kaizen events and ensure successful implementation of improvement activities.

Promote sustainability of improvements by holding departments accountable for maintaining results.

Project Management Establish project objectives, timelines, and expected outcomes.

Develop project charters and evaluate return on investment (ROI) for improvement activities.

Assemble and lead cross-functional teams to support improvement initiatives.

Coordinate resources, materials, and stakeholder involvement necessary for project success.

Monitor project progress and ensure timely completion of action items.

Data Analysis & Reporting Develop tools and methods for tracking project performance and cost savings.

Analyze manufacturing processes, including:

Production routings

Cycle times

Changeover times

Tool life Supporting production activities

Prepare and present monthly reports highlighting:

Project accomplishments

Cost reductions

Areas requiring additional focus

Future improvement opportunities

Training & Employee Engagement Lead, co-lead, and support Kaizen and Lean Manufacturing training programs.

Assist in maintaining and updating training materials related to:5SLean Manufacturing Seven Wastes Six Sigma Continuous Improvement methodologies

Promote employee involvement in continuous improvement activities.

Increase visibility of Kaizen successes throughout the organization to encourage participation and engagement.

Standardization & Best Practices Drive Yokoten (horizontal deployment) of successful improvements across similar processes and departments.

Support the development of standardized work and sustainable operating practices.

Collaborate with leadership to ensure continuous improvement efforts align with strategic business objectives.

Required Skills & Experience Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement principles.

Experience leading Kaizen events and process improvement initiatives.

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Strong communication and presentation skills.

Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Ability to collect, analyze, and present data to support decision-making.

Preferred Qualifications Experience in a manufacturing environment.

Training or certification in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.

Project management experience.

Experience facilitating employee training and group workshops.

What Success Looks Like Improved safety, quality, delivery, and productivity performance.

Measurable cost reductions through successful Kaizen initiatives.

Increased employee engagement in continuous improvement activities.

Sustainable process improvements that deliver long-term results.

Strong collaboration across all departments and levels of the organization.

Core Competencies Leadership Problem  Solving Project Management Continuous Improvement Mindset Data Analysis Teamwork & Collaboration Communication & Presentation Skills Accountability Adaptability Positive  Influence Somic America is committed to creating a culture of continuous improvement where every employee has the opportunity to contribute to our success. If you enjoy solving problems, driving change, and making a measurable impact, we encourage you to apply.
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