Continuous Improvement Manager

Continuous Improvement Engineering Manager

The Continuous Improvement (CI) Engineering Manager leads the plant’s continuous improvement strategy, driving measurable improvements across Safety, Quality, Productivity, and Delivery (SQPD) while aligning with financial and operational goals. The role oversees Lean principles, plant strategy development, and implements systems that sustain long‑term process excellence.

Base pay range: $85,000–$130,000 per year

Bonus:
12% annual target

• Lead the execution and ongoing development of the plant’s Continuous Improvement program.
• Partner with plant leadership to refine plant strategy and annual Lean Progression goals.
• Drive improvements that support attainment of financial targets and KPI performance.

• Oversee MDI (Managing for Daily Improvement) systems and ensure consistent use across all departments.
• Conduct effective Gemba Walks with plant leadership; coach and challenge teams for continuous improvement.
• Maintain CI dashboards, SQPD boards, and improvement tracking systems.
• Develop and implement audit systems to verify compliance with standard processes, procedures, 5S, and Standard Work.
• Ensure standard work instructions, SOPs, and audits remain current and aligned with operational requirements.

• Lead problem‑solving efforts using structured methods such as 5 Why’s and root‑cause analysis.
• Conduct and maintain capacity planning and capacity analysis for all work cells.
• Plan, lead, and follow up on kaizen events, including action‑item assignment and sustainability checks.
• Drive waste elimination efforts and improvements within key constraint areas.
• Create, maintain, and optimize value stream maps for plant operations.

• Collaborate across functions (operations, engineering, maintenance, quality, supply chain) to influence change and alignment.
• Mentor and train team members in Lean methods and CI tools.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement across the plant.

• Support cross‑functional initiatives as assigned.
• Participate in plant Gemba walks and executive‑level improvement reviews.

• 5+ years of experience in Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement leadership roles.
• Proven ability in value stream mapping and process optimization.
• Experience in strategic planning and capacity planning.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across functions and influence organizational change.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to lead teams through change.

• Ability to sit, stand, walk production floors, and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to climb stairs, ladders, and navigate around production equipment for observation and auditing.
• Adequate vision and dexterity for audits, data review, and computer work.

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Manufacturing

• Medical insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k)
• Tuition assistance

Holstein, IA