DescriptionWORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $90,000 to $120,000 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate's qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.
SUMMARY
The Continuous Improvement Engineer II plays a key role in advancing Redwire Defense Tech's operational performance by applying continuous improvement methodologies to optimize processes, eliminate waste, and enhance overall effectiveness. This role fosters a culture of improvement and innovation by championing CI tools, facilitating problem-solving activities, and deploying best practices across teams and functions.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.
- Help create and maintain the framework, standards, and processes for improvement activities, including workshops, projects, and idea pipeline management.
- Support the development and execution of the site's strategic Continuous Improvement (CI) plan.
- Identify required resources for improvement initiatives and collaborate with sponsors to secure their support.
- Lead and implement improvement projects using CI methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma to reduce waste, improve flow, and enhance operational performance.
- Drive sustainment of CI activities through effective change management practices, coaching, and monitoring.
- Support and lead cross-functional or multi-site strategic projects.
- Communicate effectively with management and team members; actively seek to understand challenges and provide structured problem-solving support.
- Share lessons learned, project results, and best practices with leadership and key stakeholders to strengthen organizational learning.
- Develop and deliver training on CI tools and concepts (e.g., White Belt, Lean basics, 5S+1, process mapping, root-cause analysis, etc.).
- Coach and facilitate improvement projects (DMAIC, PDCA, 8D, etc.) across departments based on site priorities.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
The following are a non-exhaustive list of qualifications for the position:
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Business/Operations Management.
- 2+ years of experience in Continuous Improvement, Manufacturing/Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, Engineering, Logistics, or Production Planning.
- Working knowledge of project management and risk management principles.
- Practical understanding of Lean and Six Sigma tools and methodologies, such as Standard Work, Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen, Root Cause Analysis, PDCA, 5S+1, waste elimination, process mapping, DMAIC, FMEA, and basic statistical analysis.
- Proficiency with MS Office applications including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Project, and Visio.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
- Demonstrated facilitation and coaching skills to support improvement activities.
- Proven ability to analyze data, identify issues, and solve complex problems.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification or higher (Black Belt or Master Black Belt preferred).
- Working knowledge of key quality and industry standards, including AS9100, IPC-610, IPC-620, and J-STD-001.
- Experience applying advanced CI, Lean, or Six Sigma methodologies in a manufacturing or aerospace/defense environment.
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Epicor, Dynamics) for production planning and data analysis.
- Familiarity with statistical software or data-analysis tools (Minitab, JMP, Tableau, Power BI).
- Experience leading Kaizen or Rapid Improvement Events.
- Understanding of configuration management or document control in a regulated environment.
- Experience in a defense, aerospace, or high-reliability manufacturing environment.
REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance
- Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS
This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person's status under the ITAR and the EAR.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.
