Continuous Improvement Specialist

The Continuous Improvement Specialist is a key role responsible for driving operational excellence through the implementation of Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies across the organization. This position aims to identify performance gaps, prioritize improvement initiatives, and execute process transformations that align with company objectives. Reporting to the Director of Continuous Improvement, the Specialist ensures the sustainability of process improvements while fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous learning. 

Essential Functions 

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Lead, manage, and deliver strategic continuous improvement (CI) initiatives across departments, applying Lean, Six Sigma, and problem-solving methodologies.
• Develop and execute the Continuous Improvement roadmap aligned with company goals and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), in collaboration with executive leadership.
• Coach and mentor teams and individuals across the organization in CI tools, problem-solving approaches, and best practices.
• Identify, prioritize, and scope high-impact improvement opportunities across operations, supply chain, and support functions.
• Champion a data-driven culture by utilizing metrics, KPIs, and statistical tools to measure success and uncover opportunities.
• Facilitate Kaizen events and other CI workshops, ensuring effective planning, execution, and follow-up for sustainability.
• Drive accountability for CI projects by establishing clear ownership, timelines, and performance targets.
• Promote standardization and best practice sharing across sites or departments to ensure consistent process excellence.
• Develop business cases for capital and process improvement projects, including ROI analysis and risk assessments.
• Report regularly to leadership on the progress of improvement initiatives, including impact on cost, quality, safety, and delivery.
• Maintain documentation of improved processes, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and change management plans to ensure compliance and operational stability.
• Support site leadership in change management, team development, and cultural transformation toward continuous improvement. 

Competencies

• Strategic thinking and execution
• Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills
• Project and program management
• Strong communication skills
• Data literacy and statistical analysis (root cause, regression, etc.)
• Lean Six Sigma methodology (Kaizen, VSM, 5S, etc.)
• Organizational change management
• Team development and coaching
• Results-driven and adaptable to changing priorities  

Travel 

Occasional travel between locations may be required (up to 40%).  

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in Continuous Improvement, operations, or process engineering roles with increasing responsibility.
• Six Sigma Certification or other quantifiable lean experience. Green or Black Belt Certification is preferred. 
• Proven leadership of cross-functional improvement initiatives with measurable business impact.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Visio); experience with project management tools (e.g., MS Project) preferred.
• Demonstrated proficiency with lean tools, including Value Stream Mapping, Single Piece Flow, Five S, and Kaizen.
• Strong analytical skills, including the use of SPC, Pareto, histograms, and other statistical quality tools.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD, WMS systems, and data visualization tools. 

Other Duties 

Please note that this job description is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee in this role. Duties, responsibilities, and activities are subject to change at any time, with or without notice.