Continuous Improvement Engineer

Clasen Quality Chocolate (CQC) is a world-class manufacturer of chocolate and innovative coatings, recently awarded the Top Workplaces Award by the WI State Journal as the No. 2 Large Employer and the Benefits Award. As a family-owned company experiencing double-digit annual growth, CQC values flexibility, commitment, respect, and integrity. We offer employees the opportunity to make a daily impact in a dynamic environment.

About the role

The Continuous Improvement Engineer drives continuous improvement and operational excellence at CQC’s flagship Watertown production facility, located between Madison and Milwaukee. This full-time exempt position reports to the Engineering Manager and requires up to 10% travel. The role focuses on data-driven initiatives to enhance safety, quality, capacity, and cost performance using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, while partnering with Operations, Maintenance, and Quality teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead improvement initiatives focused on OEE, cost, yield, and throughput.
• Develop and manage a pipeline of improvement opportunities aligned with plant goals.
• Apply Lean and Six Sigma tools (DMAIC, root cause analysis) to eliminate waste and reduce process variability.
• Provide daily technical support to production and maintenance teams, troubleshooting process, product, and equipment issues to minimize downtime.
• Develop and standardize best practices to ensure consistent product quality and performance.
• Train and coach operations and maintenance teams on continuous improvement tools and methodologies.
• Develop standard work and sustain improvements through organizational problem-solving skills.
• Utilize OEE and performance metrics to drive data-driven improvements, conducting time studies and process evaluations.
• Partner cross-functionally with Operations, Quality, R&D, and Engineering teams.
• Maintain regular attendance, work overtime as needed, and adhere to all company, safety, and quality policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related discipline), or equivalent relevant experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of manufacturing or continuous improvement experience with demonstrated results.
• Experience in food manufacturing or consumer packaged goods is preferred.
• Experience or certification in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
• Familiarity with plant operating systems is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook; Microsoft Project preferred).
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), and equipment/layout drawings.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment, and industrial engineering principles.

Skills

• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• High level of integrity, accountability, and attention to detail.
• Technical aptitude with a willingness to learn and adopt new technologies.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Benefits

CQC offers a variety of traditional and unconventional benefits as part of its commitment to being an Employer of Choice in Southern Wisconsin.