AgReserves is seeking an experienced Continuous Improvement Manager to support our Row Crops Division and be based at the AgriNorthwest farm office.

Summary:

The Continuous Improvement Manager is a senior individual-contributor role responsible for advancing operational excellence across farming and processing operations. This role drives strategic alignment of CI initiatives with organizational objectives and leads high-impact projects that enhance safety, cost savings, quality, efficiency, and yield. As a trusted partner, the role coaches teams, builds CI capability, and fosters a culture of sustainable improvement. The position requires strong analytical skills, expertise in Lean and Six Sigma, and the ability to influence cross functional teams without direct authority.

Responsibilities:

• Implement and sustain the continuous improvement strategy across farming and processing operations.
• Ensure CI initiatives align with organizational goals and serve as a strategic partner to site leadership.
• Lead large-scale improvement projects focused on cost reduction, waste elimination, efficiency gains, process streamlining, and quality enhancement.
• Manage industrial engineering projects and process optimization projects, including new equipment and process introductions.
• Identify and prioritize top savings opportunities and track measurable results.
• Coach and develop CI Champions and project leaders to build internal CI capability.
• Facilitate Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other CI training sessions and workshops for teams at multiple sites.
• Analyze workflows and performance data to identify trends, risks, and data-driven improvement opportunities.
• Monitor KPIs and report improvement outcomes to senior leadership.
• Standardize processes and best practices across all sites to improve consistency and performance.
• Promote best-in-class safety practices and ensure all improvements align with safety and compliance standards.
• Maintain a visible presence at farming and processing sites to support projects and frontline problem solving.
• Act as a trusted advisor to leadership teams to drive operational excellence.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or related field; masters degree preferred.
• 7+ years of experience in Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence, or Process Optimization roles, including 4+ years in manufacturing, food processing, agricultural, or other asset-intensive environments (e.g., livestock, dairy, grain).
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required; Black Belt preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver measurable performance improvements and cost savings in complex operations.
• Expert proficiency in Lean, Six Sigma, and advanced problem-solving methodologies.
• Strong command of statistical tools (SPC, DOE, regression), root cause analysis methods (5 Why, Fishbone, FMEA), and detailed process mapping.
• Ability to analyze large data sets, derive insights, build KPIs, and translate findings into actionable solutions.
• Familiarity with safety, quality and compliance requirements in manufacturing and agricultural settings.
• Proven track record delivering measurable improvements in cost, quality, yield, and throughput.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence stakeholders at all levels without direct authority.
• Strong facilitation, communication, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to train and coach on CI methods.
• Experience working in matrixed, multi-site environments.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel up to 25%.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with ERP systems and analytics tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
• Exposure to industrial engineering, equipment optimization or maintenance and reliability strategies (TPM, RCM).
• Familiarity with digital transformation and automation enabled process improvement.
• #ARI

Working conditions:
* The physical demands below describe what is generally required to perform this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities. • Occasionally lift, carry, or move items weighing up to 30 pounds, such as files, materials, or equipment. • Regularly sit, stand, and walk within an office environment and occasionally within field or shop settings. • Frequently use hands and fingers to operate computers, keyboards, phones, and other standard office equipment. • Occasionally reach, bend, or stoop to access files, storage areas, or equipment; limited climbing or balancing may be required during infrequent field or facility visits. • Communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically to exchange information and coordinate activities. • Have adequate vision for office and field related tasks, including near and distance vision, depth perception, peripheral awareness, and the ability to adjust focus as needed.
* The work environment below describes conditions the employee may encounter while performing this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made when appropriate. • Work is performed primarily in a climate controlled office environment with minimal exposure to environmental hazards. • The role includes occasional exposure to shop, ranch, or field environments, which may involve varying weather conditions, uneven terrain, and agricultural activity. • Noise levels may vary depending on work location and tasks being performed. • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required when working in designated shop or field areas and will be provided in accordance with applicable laws and company policy; compliance with PPE requirements is mandatory when applicable. • Travel by vehicle may be required to visit company locations, field sites, or equipment facilities. • Occasional after hours or off schedule work may be necessary to support critical business operations or systems.

AgReserves offers medical, dental, vision, life, and AD&D insurance coverage. Additionally, employees can contribute to an FSA, and to an employer matched 401(K). Employees can apply for Tuition Assistance for continuing education purposes. All full-time employees are eligible to participate in a discretionary profit-sharing bonus. For more detailed information please visit our benefits site:https://www.agreserves.com/benefits/. AgReserves, Inc. complies with the current state minimum wage laws for all positions, regardless of the pay ranges posted.

Additional Benefits may also include:

Company Vehicle, Company Cell Phone, Relocation Assistance.