Job RequirementsAbout the RoleThe Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager is responsible for driving operational excellence and creating measurable value across a thermal engineered materials manufacturing site. This is a highly hands-on role that requires deep engagement with day-to-day operations, learning the manufacturing processes end-to-end, and identifying practical opportunities for improvement, throughput gains, and cost savings.
The ideal candidate is a strong floor presence-someone who actively partners with operations, understands the process at a granular level, and leads sustainable change.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with plant leadership to develop and execute a site-wide Continuous Improvement roadmap aligned with financial and operational goals
- Become fully immersed in the manufacturing process to understand workflows, constraints, and improvement opportunities firsthand
- Drive throughput and capacity improvements by identifying bottlenecks, optimizing workflows, and improving process reliability
- Lead cross-functional teams using Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem-solving methodologies (DMAIC, A3, 8D)
- Implement and sustain layered process audits (LPAs) to reinforce standards and drive accountability
- Conduct regular Gemba walks to observe processes, engage teams, and identify real-time improvement opportunities
- Identify inefficiencies and cost drivers, and implement sustainable corrective actions
- Develop and maintain value stream maps to eliminate waste and improve flow
- Ensure Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are updated and standardized following process improvements
- Support capital projects by ensuring operational efficiency and risk reduction are built into design and execution
Performance & Analytics- Analyze production and performance data to identify trends, constraints, and root causes
- Translate CI initiatives into quantifiable cost savings, throughput gains, and operational improvements
- Track, validate, and report results of improvement initiatives
- Culture & Leadership
- Maintain a strong and visible presence on the plant floor; lead by example
- Coach and develop employees at all levels in Lean tools and continuous improvement practices
- Facilitate Kaizen events and hands-on improvement workshops
- Foster a culture of accountability, standardization, and continuous improvement
Qualifications- 3-5+ years of on-site manufacturing experience, including leadership or management responsibility (required)
- Demonstrated success improving throughput, capacity, and operational performance
- Experience implementing LPAs, conducting Gemba walks, and driving standard work
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, and leadership skills
- Ability to work cross-functionally and influence at all levels of the organization
Preferred Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field (preferred, not required)
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing and/or Six Sigma methodologies
- Background in industrial, materials, or process manufacturing environments
- Experience with data analysis tools (Excel, Power BI, Minitab, etc.)
If you are interested in being part of a world class continuous improvement function here at Alkegen then we would love to hear from you.
