Continuous Improvement Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer to join our growing LEAN Management department at our Elgin, IL facility.

Responsibilities

• Support the LEAN Management Organization, drive Continuous Improvement, and the HARlis Systems.
• Drive operational excellence by leading Lean, Six Sigma, and process-optimization initiatives across manufacturing and support areas.
• Identify inefficiencies, develop data-driven solutions, support cross-functional teams, and ensure sustainable improvements that enhance quality, safety, delivery, and cost performance.
• Implement the HARTING Operations Strategy Process incl. KPI’s management and the HARlis Strategy Tools.
• Participate in best practice sharing (Internal & External).
• Represent HARlis internally as well as externally (conventions, associations, study trips, etc.).
• Partner with manufacturing, engineering, supply chain, and quality teams to implement process improvements and validate results.
• Train and coach employees at all levels on HARlis tools and continuous improvement culture.
• Lead through example in representing Continuous Improvement culture.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical, industrial or mechanical engineering field.
• 3+ years of related work experience in electrical or mechanical engineering field.
• 3+ years of related work experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Working knowledge of engineering practices/procedures regarding electronic components.
• Follow standard practices/procedures to develop solutions for simple engineering issues.
• Basic level failure analysis and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Work independently and in a team environment.
• Moderate level computer skills including Microsoft Office and CAD.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing principles including Six Sigma and/or Kaizen or Lean Manufacturing.
• Good conflict resolution.
• Prioritize and multitask.

Qualifications

• Highly driven to lead cross functional projects focused on waste reduction to increase efficiency, automation, and overall operational performance.
• Lead Kaizen events, root cause analysis, and structured problem solving sessions using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Analyze production processes, workflow, and performance metrics to identify improvement opportunities in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Design, deploy, use and develop all HARlis Systems and methods.
• Support implementation of standard work, value stream mapping, 5S, visual management, and waste reduction activities.
• Measure, monitor, report and achieve targets of HARlis KPI’s.
• Develop and maintain HARlis KPI dashboards, documenting project progress, impact, and sustainability of improvements.
• Implement the HARTING Operations Strategy Process incl. KPI’s management and the HARlis Strategy Tools.

Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Work independently and in a team environment.
• Moderate level computer skills including Microsoft Office and CAD.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing principles including Six Sigma and/or Kaizen or Lean Manufacturing.
• Good conflict resolution.
• Prioritize and multitask.

Benefits

HARTING USA offers an attractive total compensation package and employee benefits, including:

• Competitive base salary: $70,000-$90,000 (commensurate with experience, subject to change dependent on physical location).
• This role is eligible for a 5% discretionary annual bonus.
• 21 days PTO (Paid Time Off) to start – quickly earn more PTO as you stick with us (36 days max).
• Medical, dental, and vision Insurance – several Blue Cross Blue Shield plan options to choose from.
• Company-sponsored life, AD&D, and short- and long-term disability – at no cost to employee.
• Paid parental leave, tuition and fitness reimbursement, and a hybrid working policy.
• 401(k) with a 4% dollar-for-dollar match – fully vested upon eligibility!