COS Project Specialist

Job Summary

The Carlisle Operating System (COS) is the continuous improvement effort at Carlisle Construction Materials. The COS Project Specialist / Improvement Engineer is the primary COS resource for continuous improvement. This individual will work closely with business leaders, plant management and local COS resources to assist with all aspects of their continuous improvement journey.

Duties And Responsibilities

• Lead and execute small to mid-scale continuous improvement (CI) initiatives with measurable outcomes across teams and departments.
• Identify, scope, and prioritize improvement opportunities within the facility and across value streams, while coaching and training CCM employees on Lean tools for process improvement.
• Apply Lean and Six Sigma tools to analyze non-routine operational challenges and implement sustainable solutions.
• Track, measure, and report project performance, including savings, KPI improvements, and operational impact.
• Perform root cause analysis to reduce process variability.
• Utilize statistical analysis and software tools to evaluate manufacturing data.
• Work with manufacturing locations and office teams to increase the value realized from initiatives such as MDI, 5S, TPM, VSM, Process Mapping, SQDC, Standard Work and the COS Framework.
• Independently manage project timelines, resources, deliverables, and execution for moderately complex initiatives.
• Contribute to project planning, solution evaluation, and risk identification.
• Support coordination of cross-functional teams to deliver project objectives aligned to business goals.

Collaboration & Capability Building

• Collaborate with peers and leaders across departments, functions, and plant operations to achieve shared goals.
• Build strong working relationships across functional boundaries to drive alignment and results.
• Participate in and contribute to team-based problem-solving sessions, Kaizen events, and workshops.
• Identify and correct weak spots relative to sustainment and continuous improvement.
• Influence outcomes beyond own area through collaboration on multi-departmental initiatives.
• Encourage team engagement, idea generation, and structured problem-solving approaches.
• Help reinforce COS standards, tools, and behaviors within the organization.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Working knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma principles, tools, and methodologies (e.g., Value Stream Mapping, Root Cause Analysis, 5S, MDI, mistake Proofing, DMAIC).
• Demonstrated experience applying CI tools in real-world operational environments with increasing independence.
• Understanding of manufacturing or business processes and how systems and functions interrelate.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, presentation skills, problem solving and analytical skills, conflict resolution, listening skills, coaching and facilitating skills.
• Effective project and time management techniques.
• Working knowledge of various software systems including Microsoft Office, SAP, Minitab, Wonderware, etc.
• Able to identify, scope, and execute numerous improvement projects simultaneously.
• Able to distinguish between value-added and non-value-added activities.
• Base understanding of Six Sigma tools and approach including, but not limited to, DMAIC, Measurement System Analysis, Statistical Process Control (SPC), Process Capability, Experimental Design (DOE), etc.
• Experience using data analysis, metrics, and performance tracking to drive decision-making.
• Able to select appropriate tools and methods to address operational challenges.
• Able to influence without direct authority and work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Skilled at facilitating discussions, problem-solving sessions, and Kaizen events.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and collaborate across functional boundaries.
• Able to coach peers and support development of CI capabilities within teams.
• Encourages creative thinking and team-based solution generation.
• Demonstrates curiosity and commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

Required Education and Experience

• Associate’s degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial), Operations, Business or related field.
• 5 years of experience in business/manufacturing setting.
• Basic lean and Six Sigma experience.

Preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations, Purchasing, Business, Finance, Engineering or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in business/manufacturing.
• Leverage Lean Champion Certification and Six Sigma Green/Black Belt.

Project Management

• Independently manage project timelines, resources, deliverables, and execution for moderately complex initiatives.

Travel

• Periodic travel may be required for team meetings, training, or company events, with advance notice provided.

Company Information

• The company will reimburse travel expenses in accordance with its travel and expense policy.