Continuous Improvement Manager

At AUTOKINITON
, we are more than just an automotive supplier — we are the backbone of vehicle performance and safety. Specializing in high‑strength structural components and precision stamping assemblies, our parts are trusted by the world’s leading automakers. Our dedicated teams proudly deliver quality parts and assemblies that contribute to vehicle durability and safety. With decades of experience, a passion for continuous improvement, and a forward‑thinking approach, we play a critical role in shaping the future of mobility.

• Provide leadership, training, and resources for Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives to achieve optimal levels of safety, quality, profitability, productivity, and delivery to assure internal and external customer satisfaction.
• Lead CI programs and processes including the development, coordination, implementation, maintenance of processes and services, including policy development and compliance.
• Accountable for knowing and providing guidance on production processes including workforce planning, engineering standards, performance metrics, capacity planning and analysis, and new model launch consideration.
• Direct and drive the utilization of problem‑solving methods for related Plant and customer issues.
• Promote Plant CI Kaizen Events schedule, Six Sigma Green Belt, and other CI Programs with expectations, tracking, reporting while maintaining continuous communication with Plant Manager Team.
• Provide coaching and mentoring to leadership and functional management teams on a variety of issues including CI standard work initiatives, Kaizen, performance metrics, capacity planning, and analysis, SMED, 6S and other CI tools.
• Review and measure manufacturing methods, technology application and workflow processes and apply lean/continuous improvement application skills.
• Possess knowledge of financial considerations when evaluating CI initiatives including capital, rate of return, availability of resources, timing concerns, and operating income impact.
• Develop and implement best practices to maximize cost savings through proactive and innovative CI programs.
• Monitor the effectiveness of the Autokiniton Operating System (AOS), anticipate problems, implement corrective action, and develop adjustments to the system.
• Interface with customers and suppliers as appropriate.
• Provide support and guidance to all departments in the application of lean/CI manufacturing techniques.
• Assess training needs and develop tools to effectively address Associates’ development and collaborate with Plant Mgt Team to create training plans.
• Accountable for following all internal and OSHA required procedures in performing daily activities and hold direct reports accountable for enforcement.
• Maintain model behavior which demonstrates Corporate Values and a positive working relationship with all levels of the organization.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business or related field, preferably Manufacturing, Engineering or Quality;
  Master’s Degree preferred.
• 10+ years’ experience in a manufacturing environment utilizing lean manufacturing concepts, preferred metal stamping/assembly or a combination of degree and experience.
• 6+ years of management experience in Manufacturing, Engineering, or Quality in automotive manufacturing strongly preferred.
• Certified Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt preferred and other standard CI tools.
• Possess knowledge of Plant department functions, corresponding roles, and interactions to facilitate overall CI Programs.
• Experience in Quality and environmental measurables (e.g., IATF 16949, ISO
  9001, etc.).
• Excellent organizational, analytical and communication skills with all internal and external stakeholders.
• Advanced proficiency with MS Office, ERP (e.g., QAD), and other business software.
• This position reports to the Plant Manager.

Location: Greater Lansing, MI (Lansing, MI included)

Salary: $ – $

Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type: Full‑time

Job Function: Manufacturing