Continuous Improvement Engineer
Position Summary
Penn Color is seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer to lead Lean Six Sigma and operational excellence initiatives across our global manufacturing organization. This role is ideal for a hands-on, data-driven problem solver who thrives in manufacturing environments and enjoys leading transformational change initiatives.
What You’ll Do
Lead Lean Six Sigma initiatives using DMAIC methodologies to eliminate process inefficiencies and improve operational performance.
Develop and execute continuous improvement projects across manufacturing and business operations.
Partner with cross-functional teams to drive stakeholder engagement, project execution, and sustainable implementation strategies.
Establish and monitor KPIs and project success metrics to measure impact and long-term effectiveness.
Identify and reduce waste using Lean principles, including TIMWOODS methodologies.
Analyze operational data and implement statistical process control and value stream mapping techniques.
Research and implement tools/software to track and visualize project progress, cost savings, implementation status, and sustainment metrics.
Support standardization and documentation of Penn Color best practices across global manufacturing sites.
Collaborate with third-party vendors and consultants as needed to support project implementation and training initiatives.
Promote a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, accountability, and operational excellence throughout the organization.
Support both domestic and international manufacturing facilities across the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
Required Qualifications
Minimum of 5 years of process improvement experience within a manufacturing environment.
Proven experience leading Lean Six Sigma programs and continuous improvement initiatives.
Experience in operations and manufacturing environments.
Strong knowledge of Lean methodologies, DMAIC principles, statistical process control, and value stream mapping.
Excellent communication, organizational, and change management skills.
Ability to lead projects across departments and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally (~15%).
Preferred Qualifications
Experience within thermoplastics, color/additive masterbatch, compounding, or liquid dispersion manufacturing environments.
Strong knowledge of Lean methodologies, DMAIC principles, statistical process control, and value stream mapping.
Led Lean Six Sigma programs and continuous improvement initiatives.
Experience managing small teams, quality systems, or large-scale projects.
Exposure to business strategy, operations management, or MBA coursework.