Specialist - Continuous Improvement

Pay Range: $80,168.40 - $104,759.00

About the Role

This position is responsible for the leadership of continuous improvement within the manufacturing plant. This includes the rollout and execution of lean manufacturing related activities, processes, and plans. The role serves as a change agent and facilitator of lean processes with plant teams, identifying and directing activities to attain goals consistent with process improvements that encompass the site's key performance indicators.

A Continuous Improvement Specialist will implement and review projects and activities aligned with the General Manager. The role routinely solicits improvement ideas, needs, and requirements from both internal and external resources.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and initiative to ensure the successful implementation of lean concepts. Proactively manage change to drive continuous improvement success.
• Develop key skills required to implement Lean Sigma and other continuous improvement disciplines. Help create ownership and shared results from process improvements.
• Lead, manage, coordinate, and drive activities such as Kaizen events, training/education in continuous improvement processes, and serve as a teacher and facilitator. Monitor and communicate trending improvements in supervisors' and employees' skill levels related to Continuous Improvement.
• Develop and utilize tools to maximize the effectiveness of lean initiatives and sustain them over time, including SPC, lean manufacturing, pass-down meetings, and other related tools.
• Serve as a Lean or continuous improvement leader, mentoring and supporting the development of continuous improvement resources in the plant. Monitor and communicate skill-level improvements.
• Ensure processes and practices are in place to identify and share best practices within the plant and across the organization.
• Provide a professional work environment for internal and external customers. Effectively manage relationships up, down, and across the organization, building collaborative relations across the supply chain.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 2-5 years of manufacturing experience is required; food industry experience is preferred.
• Associate's Degree preferred; High School Diploma or equivalent is required.
• Proficient with computers and standard programs including Microsoft Word, Excel, and email.
• Ability to analyze reports and take appropriate actions based on the information received.
• Proficient at writing reports to comply with requirements and communicate effectively with leaders.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in manufacturing or related fields, with continuous improvement experience, a solid understanding of product quality, waste reduction, and product integrity.
• Ability to influence floor and staff associates in desired activities.
• Must be analytical, able to organize data, and communicate to all levels of the organization.
• Must demonstrate the ability to focus on results.
• English/Spanish bilingual is a plus.

Working Conditions

• Refrigerated food manufacturing plant environment, which may be wet or dry with temperatures ranging from 25°F to 110°F.
• Physical demands include lifting, kneeling, and bending with packages in excess of 50 lbs.
• Production demands may require evening or weekend scheduling.

This position is eligible for a bonus based on company goals and performance.

Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to help employees live a healthier life, build rewarding careers, and save for the future. Benefits include:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• AD&D and life insurance
• 401(k) with discretionary match
• Wellness programs
• Paid time off and company-paid holidays
• A variety of voluntary benefit options

We strive to be your Employer of Choice, creating an environment committed to investing in employee growth and fostering a culture of belonging where employees want to build lasting careers.

Visit our website to learn more about our competitive benefit programs.