Sr. Continuous Improvement Specialist

About the role

Xylem is seeking a Senior Continuous Improvement Specialist to drive operational performance and Lean transformation at our Cheektowaga manufacturing site. This role supports the production of industrial heat exchangers for a growing data center market, offering a mix of manufacturing complexity, business relevance, and long-term growth potential.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional continuous improvement projects focusing on material flow, throughput, labor efficiency, and overall manufacturing performance.
• Implement and sustain projects from early-stage opportunity identification through full-scale deployment, ensuring measurable operational and financial results.
• Work closely with plant leaders and the union workforce to identify process constraints, reduce waste, improve workflow, and support better day-to-day execution across the facility.
• Use Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen tools to solve complex manufacturing problems and support decision-making with data and statistical analysis.
• Act as a change agent, building trust, gaining buy-in, and helping the site mature its continuous improvement culture.
• Coach others, share best practices, and strengthen CI capability across the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 4+ years of experience in a manufacturing, industrial engineering, or continuous improvement role.
• Hands-on experience in plant environments and a track record of using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies to improve performance.
• Comfortable using data to drive action, working across functions, and influencing both frontline teams and leadership.
• Experience in a unionized environment is a strong plus.
• Self-directed, pragmatic, and able to move initiatives forward with high levels of ownership.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills essential for success in this role.

Preferred Qualifications

• Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
• PMP certification or ASQ credentials such as CQE or CMQ/OE.
• Experience with analytical tools like Minitab, JMP, or advanced Excel.

Benefits

Xylem offers a competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive work environment. Learn more about our benefits and how we foster an inclusive culture.

Pay

The estimated salary range for this position is $100,000 to $115,000 plus bonus. Starting pay is based on experience, skills, and work location.

Schedule

This role is fully onsite at our Cheektowaga, NY facility and requires a regular presence on the manufacturing floor. Approximately 25–50% of the role will be spent in the plant, supporting hands-on improvement efforts and collaborating directly with operations teams.

Why Join Xylem?

Xylem is a global water technology company committed to solving critical water challenges. Joining Xylem means being part of a purpose-driven organization while building a career in an environment where operational excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement truly matter. We offer a wide range of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid parental leave, fertility and maternity support, paid time off and holidays, retirement savings with company contribution, tuition reimbursement, student loan support, wellness resources, employee recognition programs, and volunteer opportunities through our Watermark program.

Additional Information

Xylem does not provide visa sponsorship for this position. If you're a manufacturing or industrial engineering professional looking for a role where you can influence plant performance, lead meaningful change, and make a visible impact in the Buffalo market, we encourage you to apply. Join the global Xylem team to be part of innovative technology solutions transforming water usage, conservation, and re-use.