Continuous Improvement Leader

Description Continuous Improvement Leader

Full-time | Permanent

Salaried | $97k - $145k

* We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role.

Vander-Bend is a U.S.

-based manufacturer dedicated to building the precision infrastructure that powers tomorrow’s AI. Our expertise in server racking and power delivery solutions provides the backbone for next‑generation data centers, enabling hyperscalers and integrators to innovate and scale globally. With a focus on trusted, domestic manufacturing, we deliver quality, speed, and innovation at scale—redefining AI infrastructure for the future.

We are a newly created division of Vantedge Medical, the premier metals‑based med‑tech solutions partner from concept to full‑scale manufacturing. With a steadfast commitment to advancing technology, we take immense pride in the work we do – and have a lot of fun doing it."

The Continuous Improvement Leader is responsible for improving the overall operational performance of the Stockton facilities through process optimization, Lean Manufacturing, project leadership, and Operational Excellence. This role partners with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Production Control to identify opportunities, eliminate inefficiencies, standardise processes, improve material flow, and implement sustainable business improvements. The CI Leader drives measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, productivity, capacity, and cost while helping develop a culture of continuous improvement and problem‑solving throughout the organization.

• Lead cross‑functional continuous improvement initiatives that improve safety, quality, delivery, cost, productivity, and employee engagement.
• Champion the use of Lean Manufacturing, Operational Excellence, and continuous improvement methodologies including Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, Visual Management, 5S, SMED, Pull Systems, A3 Problem Solving, PDCA, and Root Cause Analysis.
• Identify, prioritise, and execute improvement projects that increase manufacturing capacity, reduce lead time, eliminate waste and improve operational performance.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, Rapid Improvement Workshops, and problem‑solving activities while ensuring measurable results and long‑term sustainment.
• Facilitate cross‑functional improvement projects with Manufacturing Engineering to improve machine utilisation, workflow, throughput, and operational performance.
• Develop, implement, and maintain standardised work, visual work instructions, best practices, and process documentation to improve consistency and reduce variation.
• Analyse operational data and key performance indicators to identify trends, bottlenecks, and improvement opportunities and present recommendations to site leadership.
• Lead manufacturing process improvement projects including workflow optimisation, line balancing, workstation design and manufacturing layout improvements.
• Improve material flow throughout the facility by reducing transportation, waiting, motion and inventory waste while optimising point‑of‑use inventory and replenishment systems.
• Support operational readiness activities associated with new equipment, production line transfers, facility expansions and new product introductions.
• Partner with Manufacturing Engineering to improve automation performance, machine utilisation, throughput, and unattended operation where applicable.
• Facilitate continuous improvement projects with Maintenance to reduce equipment downtime, improve preventive maintenance effectiveness, and increase overall equipment availability.
• Facilitate root cause investigations using structured problem‑solving methodologies including A3, 5 Why, Fishbone, Pareto Analysis, 8D, and PDCA.
• Develop and maintain visual management systems including KPI boards, daily management boards, production dashboards and other visual controls that support operational decision‑making.
• Lead employee engagement initiatives that encourage idea generation, continuous improvement participation and a culture of operational excellence.
• Develop project plans, timelines, milestones, and implementation strategies…