Continuous Improvement Kaizen Specialist

Scope of Position

This energetic, lean‑thinking individual will be responsible for supporting lean transformation, employee engagement, and problem solving to promote a “creativity before capital” mindset. The CI Kaizen Specialist I will partner with site leadership and the CI team to work through rapid experiments while supporting site transformation through LEAN processes. This position reports to the Continuous Improvement Manager and is onsite and based in Franklin, NH.

• Gather data and manage all preparatory work necessary to execute Kaizen activity.
• Facilitate Kaizens.
• Work with CI Technicians to apply high levels of technical creativity to construct machines, equipment, and tools that support employees to gain competitive advantage.
• Apply the 3P process of "try storming" simulation to prove concepts, followed by quickly assembling solutions that benefit the overall goals.
• Train employees across campus on continuous improvement tasks and processes, including Kaizen prep work and Kaizen execution.
• Perform a key role in the New Product Development Process.
• Maintain primary work area in accordance with 5S standards.
• Improve, implement, and sustain 5S, Standard Work, Flow, Visual Management, TPM, and Error Proofing.
• Work with Kaizen Road map and productivity funnel to prioritize projects and manage customer expectations.
• Prepare report‑outs for Kaizen and other activities for senior leadership.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ year(s) of experience in manufacturing.
• Must currently have a yellow belt or earn a yellow belt within 3 months of accepting the role.
• Ability to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with minimal supervision and willingness to attend training as needed.
• Ability to work in a team‑oriented environment to accomplish large projects and to self‑manage smaller tasks while executing a daily and weekly action plan.
• Ability to work with cross‑function teams to provide solutions quickly and efficiently to manufacturing and material handling related issues.
• Ability to communicate professionally and collaboratively with internal customers regarding status of requests.

• Associate degree or certification in engineering technology, operations, or related field.
• Prior experience supporting Kaizen events or Lean improvement projects.
• Exposure to KPI reporting or visual management systems.

• Commitment to Watts’ values of integrity, accountability, continuous improvement, innovation, and transparency.
• Punctuality and dependability.
• Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing work priorities and stressful conditions.
• Adherence to all personnel policies, procedures, and standards of process as implemented by Watts.
• Maintain productive and collaborative relationships with other Watts employees.
• Adherence to Watts’ seven cultural beliefs:
  Growth Mindset, Customer‑Focused Innovation, Constant Communication, Clear Goals, Collaborate Globally, Be Inclusive, and Take Action.

While performing the job duties, you will be working on‑site in a manufacturing facility. You will be required to work at the Company’s location in St. Pauls, NC. Your scheduled work hours will be communicated to you by your manager. Physical requirements include the ability to stand for long periods of time, lift and carry up to 25 pounds, push and pull up to 25 pounds, physically move around the manufacturing floor, read documents, communicate clearly with management and coworkers, and wear personal protective equipment such as safety shoes, hearing protection, and safety glasses.

Nothing in this job description restricts Watts’ right to assign or reassign duties, responsibilities, and working hours/conditions to this position at any time. This position is “at will,” which means that either the employee or Watts may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without notice, and for any lawful reason.

• Competitive compensation based on your skills, qualifications, and experience.
• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits.
• Family‑building benefits, including paid…