Manager, Continuous Improvement

About the Role

A Continuous Improvement (CI) Engineer is a manufacturing and process optimization professional who applies Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other improvement methodologies to identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, and enhance productivity and quality across operations. The CI Engineer drives the implementation of continuous improvement initiatives to streamline production processes, improve quality, and meet organizational goals. They work closely with cross-functional teams—including Operations, Engineering, Processing, Quality, and Tooling—to integrate improvements across the organization.

Responsibilities

• Analyze manufacturing and production processes to identify areas for improvement; implement Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to optimize workflows.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data (KPIs, process audits, FMEA, SPC) to measure improvement effectiveness.
• Lead and facilitate Kaizen events, process audits, and improvement projects; manage timelines, resources, and deliverables.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, standard operating procedures, and standardized work charts.
• Work with Engineering, QA, EHS, Supply Chain, and Operations to integrate improvements and ensure sustainability.
• Train and mentor staff on new processes, tools, and improvement techniques.
• Select, develop, and maintain tools, fixtures, and equipment to support process improvements.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations; contribute to EHS initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned to meet department goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering: industrial, mechanical, manufacturing, or related field; advanced degrees preferred.
• Certifications: Lean, Six Sigma (Black Belt), ISO/TS 16949, Kaizen, 5S, TPM, DMAIC.
• 7+ years in manufacturing, production planning, or process improvement; experience with APQP, FMEA, SPC, MSA.
• Previous supervisory experience leading salaried teams of 4-7+.
• Knowledge of ERP (JDE), MS Office Suite, and productivity tools.
• Strong problem-solving, statistical analysis, project management, and communication skills; proficiency in MS Office, ERP systems, and process mapping tools.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills at all levels of the organization, especially with direct employees.
• Ability to lawfully obtain access to export-controlled items as a condition of employment.

Pay

The base pay range for this position in California is $140,000 - $170,000/year. Pay is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. A sign-on payment may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits.