Continuous Improvement Manager

About the role

Shape Technologies Group (SHAPE) is devoted to delivering innovative manufacturing process solutions that propel our customers to success. SHAPE is a strategic ecosystem of companies providing an extensive portfolio of manufacturing process solutions to customers around the world. This Continuous Improvement Manager role leads continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations at the Baxter Springs facility, partnering with Operations, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Maintenance, Safety, and HR to improve safety, quality, delivery, productivity, cost, and overall operational performance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute site continuous improvement initiatives aligned with business goals.
• Lead Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, value stream mapping, root cause analysis, and process improvement projects.
• Identify and eliminate waste, improve workflow, and support standard work across machining, fabrication, welding, assembly, and support areas.
• Establish, monitor, and report key performance metrics, including safety, quality, productivity, labor efficiency, scrap, OEE, on-time delivery, and cost savings.
• Partner with Quality and Engineering to support corrective actions, reduce defects, and improve process capability.
• Train and coach supervisors and employees on Lean, problem-solving, and continuous improvement tools.
• Support employee engagement through idea generation, CI participation, and development of CI champions.
• Assist with layout, material flow, capital improvement, safety, and facility optimization projects.
• Ensure continuous improvement activities support safety, compliance, and operational excellence objectives.

Requirements

• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, value stream mapping, and root cause analysis.
• Ability to lead cross-functional improvement projects and influence change at all levels.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, facilitation, and communication skills.
• Experience using production data, KPIs, Excel, ERP systems, and reporting tools to drive improvements.
• Ability to work effectively in a manufacturing environment and partner across multiple departments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field preferred. Equivalent combination of education and manufacturing experience may be considered.
• 5 to 10 years of manufacturing experience preferred.
• 3 to 5 years of continuous improvement or operational excellence experience preferred.
• Experience in machining, fabrication, industrial products, precision manufacturing, or assembly environments preferred.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt, Certified Lean Practitioner, or Project Management certification preferred.

Location

Baxter Springs, Kansas

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to sit or stand for an 8+ hour shift.
• Lift, carry, and move 50+ pounds.
• Push, pull, reach, bend, and twist your body.
• Travel up and down stairs.
• Maneuver around tight equipment.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision
• 401(k)
• Paid time off
• Life insurance
• Paid disability insurance
• Education reimbursement