Principal Continuous Improvement Engineer

Overview

Job Title: Sr. Continuous Improvement Engineer

Location: Greater Springfield, MA
* Relocation assistance Provided!*

Travel: Up to 10%

Salary: $120K - $150K

Reports To: Operational Excellence Director

The Principal Continuous Improvement Engineer is responsible for driving operational excellence at a manufacturing site. This role focuses on standardizing and scaling best-in-class practices, improving efficiency, and fostering a culture centered on performance, quality, and continuous improvement. The position requires expertise in lean methodologies, process control, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Lead and execute continuous improvement initiatives in support of cross-functional program teams to drive alignment and operational efficiency.
• Develop and implement standardized processes, including both core and non-core activities, supported by robust SOPs and control plans.
• Apply lean tools and methodologies (e.g., 5S, SIPOC, PFMEA, MSA, SMED, TPM, Kanban, line balancing) to enhance manufacturing performance.
• Establish and maintain standard work for manufacturing operations, material flow, and shop floor execution.
• Drive initiatives to reduce cycle times, increase operational efficiency, and optimize labor and machine capacity.
• Support transformation of materials and inventory management through structured planning methods and logistics optimization.
• Collaborate with Operations, Planning, Quality, and Engineering teams to align on continuous improvement objectives.
• Utilize data-driven decision-making, statistical analysis, and Six Sigma principles to achieve measurable results.
• Mentor teams and promote a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 8+ years of experience in operations, industrial engineering, continuous improvement, or materials/planning roles.
• Demonstrated success leading continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and statistical analysis.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills with the ability to collaborate across functions.
• Proven ability to influence stakeholders and manage cross-functional projects.
• Must meet applicable work authorization requirements.

• Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent certification.
• Experience with Sales, Inventory, and Operations Planning (SIOP).
• Knowledge of constraint management and advanced planning methodologies.
• Experience with ERP and manufacturing execution systems.
• Demonstrated expertise in capacity planning, inventory control, and material flow optimization.