Process Improvement Technician - SW Small Pack Lines

Summary

The Process Improvement Technician is instrumental in driving manufacturing excellence by supporting and leading process improvement initiatives. Acting as a proactive problem solver and collaborator, this role works closely with cross-functional teams to facilitate process trials, optimize workflows, and support product commercialization efforts. With a strong focus on Lean methodologies and data-driven problem solving, the Process Improvement Technician helps embed a continuous improvement culture that enhances quality, reduces waste, and improves operational efficiency. Additionally, this position provides technical support, training, and clear communication to production teams, ensuring safe, consistent, and efficient manufacturing processes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Process Optimization and Continuous Improvement:
  • Actively partners with operations and support teams to identify and execute opportunities for improving production processes.
  • This includes facilitating Lean Manufacturing initiatives such as 5S, Standard Work, Changeover Reduction, and Kaizen events, aimed at reducing waste, improving flow, and enhancing line efficiency.
• Technical Support and Troubleshooting:
  • Provides on-floor technical support for daily production challenges by analyzing process variables, escalating issues when needed, and contributing to root cause investigations.
  • Aids in implementing corrective actions to reduce downtime, improve quality, and stabilize performance across processing lines.
• Process Trials and Product Commercialization:
  • Working closely with cross-functional teams, including Process Engineering, Operations, and R&D, supports new product introductions by coordinating and executing plant trials.
  • Assists in scaling processes from pilot to full production, ensuring quality and efficiency standards are met during commercialization.
• Standard Work and Documentation:
  • Contributes to the development and optimization of standard operating procedures to ensure consistent and efficient operation of equipment.
  • Helps build documentation that supports operator training and reinforces safe, standardized work practices.
• Performance Metrics and Data Monitoring:
  • Maintains production and process-related data to track key performance indicators.
  • Uses information to drive focused improvements in cost, quality, delivery, and team engagement.
• Capital and Equipment Implementation Support:
  • Supports capital equipment installations by assisting with training and process integration during start-up phases.
  • Collaborates with engineering and maintenance teams to ensure proper operation and handoff of new technologies into daily production.
• Safety, Quality, and Compliance:
  • Safeguarding food safety and quality standards through active participation in issue resolution, process audits, and preventive actions.
  • Escalates concerns related to food safety or product quality to the appropriate team members.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience leading project teams is preferred.
• Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC), Lean Manufacturing, and 6 Sigma is highly preferred.
• Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Alignment with Company Values – Embodies Sartori's values of family, commitment, authenticity, ingenuity, integrity, and humility in leadership and decision-making.
  • Results-Oriented: Demonstrates a strong focus on achieving measurable improvements in operational performance and cost-efficiency.
  • Analytical Thinking: Applies logical reasoning and data analysis to identify trends, draw conclusions, and support decision-making.
  • Innovative Problem Solver: Brings forward creative, practical solutions to challenges, addressing root causes and driving sustainable improvements.
  • Organized & Detail-Oriented: Approaches tasks methodically with attention to detail, maintaining accuracy and consistency in documentation and execution.
  • Impact Awareness: Understands the broader goals of the organization and aligns daily work with long-term improvement initiatives.
  • Collaboration & Teamwork: Builds strong working relationships across departments and contributes effectively in cross-functional environments.
  • Coaching Mindset: Shares knowledge and supports skill development of peers to build team.
  • Influential: Inspires engagement, accountability, and a continuous improvement mindset within teams.
  • Initiative & Ownership: Takes proactive action to identify opportunities, support projects, and ensure progress without requiring direction.
  • Commitment to Quality: Adheres to and promotes high standards for food safety, product quality, and compliance with internal and external standards.
  • Lean Manufacturing Knowledge: Familiar with Lean tools and practices including 5S, Standard Work, Changeover Reduction, Visual Management, Kaizen, and Root Cause Analysis.
  • Technical Aptitude: Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), and experience with JD Edwards or similar ERP systems.

Additional Information

• WORK LOCATION: This is an on-site position based at our Sartori Whey facility in Plymouth, WI.
• Travel Requirements: Occasional travel may be required to meet the needs of the business (estimated 5%).
• PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Team Member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. When entering the production facility, the Team Member is occasionally exposed to cold working conditions and/or moving mechanical parts. The noise level is moderate while in the plant.