Process Improvement Leader

Job Purpose:

Our Process Improvement Leader is responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives throughout the corrugated manufacturing operation. This position works closely with Operations, Production, Maintenance, Quality, and other cross-functional teams to improve productivity, efficiency, quality, safety, and overall plant performance. The role analyzes production processes and performance data to identify opportunities to reduce downtime, waste, scrap, rework, setup and changeover times, and manufacturing costs while increasing throughput, equipment utilization, and customer service.

This is a hands‑on leadership position that requires a strong presence on the plant floor and the ability to work directly with employees and leaders at all levels to identify root causes, develop practical solutions, implement sustainable improvements, and drive a culture of continuous improvement. The ideal candidate has a strong manufacturing background, excellent problem‑solving skills, and experience with Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, or similar methodologies.

Experience in corrugated packaging or converting is highly preferred.

• Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives focused on enhancing manufacturing efficiency, productivity, quality, safety, and operational performance.
• Analyze production data and key performance indicators, including downtime, waste, scrap, labor efficiency, throughput, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), to identify improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with Operations, Production, Maintenance, and Quality teams to implement sustainable process improvements, reduce equipment downtime, and improve production flow.
• Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, and root‑cause analysis methodologies to identify inefficiencies and develop corrective actions.
• Develop and implement standardized work processes, operating procedures, and measurable performance improvement goals.
• Facilitate continuous improvement activities, engage employees in problem‑solving initiatives, and promote a culture of accountability and operational excellence.
• Maintain an active presence on the production floor to evaluate processes, support improvement initiatives, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams.

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, production systems, continuous improvement principles, and Lean Manufacturing methodologies, including Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, standard work, and root‑cause analysis.
• Knowledge of manufacturing performance metrics, including OEE, downtime, scrap, waste, labor efficiency, throughput, and schedule attainment.
• Previous experience in a corrugated packaging, converting, printing, or related manufacturing environment strongly preferred.
• Experience working directly with production personnel and manufacturing equipment.
• Demonstrated experience leading and implementing continuous improvement projects.
• Experience with root‑cause analysis and corrective action processes.
• Experience analyzing production data and developing performance metrics.
• Experience with OEE, downtime tracking, scrap reduction, changeover reduction, and productivity improvement preferred.
• Experience working with corrugators and converting equipment preferred.
• Ability to identify problems, determine root causes, develop effective solutions, and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment and maintain a strong presence on the plant floor.
• Ability to engage employees, lead change, build accountability, and promote a culture of safety, quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
• Demonstrat…