AutoZone

Continuous Improvement Manager

AutoZone • $80K — $110K *
Memphis, TN 38109In-Person
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Industrial, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Quality Engineering
  • Over 7 years of experience in automotive component manufacturing
  • Strong implementation experience in Lean manufacturing
  • Proven leadership in Kaizen improvement activities
  • Familiarity with value stream mapping and other Lean techniques
  • Knowledge of Six Sigma methodology and project management
  • Strong communication and computer skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio)

Responsibilities

  • Train suppliers in Lean manufacturing techniques and lead factory Kaizen events
  • Participate in and lead improvement activities with customers, vendors, and suppliers
  • Assist management with best practices and assess financial impacts of improvement activities
  • Handle daily issues like product recalls and store testing
  • Conduct on-site audits of suppliers' manufacturing and quality systems
  • Document and administer continuous improvement activities
  • Develop value stream maps and establish processes

Benefits

  • Opportunity to impact organizational culture through Lean practices
  • Hands-on involvement in supplier training and improvement initiatives
  • Collaboration with outside consultants on Lean projects
  • Role in reducing product costs and improving quality
  • Engagement with a variety of stakeholders, including customers and suppliers
Full Job Description
JOB DESCRIPTION

SUMMARY

Continuous Improvement Manager - Lead the Lean initiative and help sustain a Lean transformation by administering continuous improvement activities and providing hands-on technical support. Serve as a facilitator of Kaizen activities and other tools that will drive Lean methodology throughout the organization. Drive cultural change that supports the technical implementation of Lean. Trains suppliers in Lean manufacturing techniques and leads factory Kaizen events to eliminate waste from the supplier's manufacturing processes, resulting in lower product costs for AutoZone. Assesses current and potential suppliers, through intense review of their manufacturing and quality systems, with the goal of improving and enhancing the AutoZone supply base. Improves product quality and reduces warranty costs by identifying warranty drivers, performing teardown analyses to determine root causes of failures, and working with suppliers to identify and implement corrective actions that address root causes of failures. Acts as manufacturing and quality consultant for Merchandising department and assists in competitive benchmarking activities.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Trains suppliers in Lean manufacturing techniques and leads factory Kaizen events to eliminate waste from the supplier's manufacturing processes, resulting in lower product costs for AutoZone.
  • Participate in and/or lead improvement activities with customers, vendors, and suppliers.
  • Assist with corporate-wide, best practices, and standards and assist management to determine financial impact of improvement activities.
  • Handles day to day issues, such as product recalls and store testing issues. Supports line review process by reporting on quality and cost improvment activities.
  • Assesses current and potential suppliers, through on-site audits of their manufacturing and quality systems, with the goal of improving the AutoZone supply base.
  • Create, formalize, document, and administer continuous improvement activities that will drive Lean methodology throughout the organization.
  • Develops value stream maps, establish goals and objectives, and establishes processes and procedures.
  • Coordinate with outside consultants on Lean initiatives and projects, when needed.

 

REQUIREMENTS

  • Level of Formal Education: A Master's degree (MA, MS, MBA) or equivalent.
  • Area of Study: Industrial, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Quality Engineering
  • Years of Experience: More than seven years.
  • Type of Experience: Automotive component manufacturing
  • Special Certifications or Technical Skills: Strong Lean manufacturing implementation exeperience and proven ability to lead Kaizen improvement activities, with emphasis on the following techniques: value stream mapping, cellular manufacturing, 5S, TQM, QS9/ISO9 assessment experience, training in APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning), Knowledge of Six Sigma methodology, Product launch experience, Kaizen blitz experience, Project management experience, strong written and oral communication skills, strong computer skills in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project, and Visio.
  • Other/Preferred: CQE (Certified Quality Engineer), CME (Certified Manufacturing Engineer), PE (professional engineer), Six Sigma Black Belt

About AutoZone

AutoZone is the nation's leading retailer and a leading distributor of automotive replacement parts and accessories with more than 6,000 stores in the US, Mexico, Brazil and Puerto Rico. Each store carries an extensive line for cars, sport utility vehicles, vans and light trucks, including new and remanufactured hard parts, maintenance items and accessories. AutoZone, headquartered in Memphis, TN, is a growing Fortune 300 company with a deep commitment to serving our customers, communities and fellow AutoZoners. We have vast opportunities in our stores, distribution centers, field offices, specialty business units and Store Support Center and embrace diverse experiences, backgrounds, knowledge and ideas to strengthen our teams and business. Our team is connected by a deep commitment to our Pledge and Values, principles established more than thirty years ago that reinforce our priorities and team culture. In addition, we constantly innovate and aspire to best serve our customers, creating new and better tools, training and outreach to serve both DIY and the professional installer customers. From in-store tools to E-Commerce, training and development to recognition, our team has the tools to help you grow your career at AutoZone. See where your drive will take you!

AutoZone Careers

Join the dynamic team at AutoZone, the leading retailer and distributor of automotive replacement parts and accessories in the U.S. At AutoZone, we are committed to providing not just auto parts, but superior customer service and solutions. There has never been a better time to explore the job opportunities available across our expansive network. Work You’ll Do At AutoZone, you’ll be part of a team that values innovation, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. We offer a variety of job opportunities that allow you to help drive growth within the company and the entire automotive industry. From sales to supply chain management, technology to marketing, there’s a place for your passion and skills. Join our team and contribute to a culture that values diversity, leadership, and professional development. AutoZone is not just about car parts—it’s about elevating your career to new heights in an environment that fosters growth and innovation. Professional Growth and Development AutoZone is dedicated to your professional growth. We provide comprehensive benefits and diversity training that ensure our team members are equipped to lead in the automotive and retail industries. Our leadership programs, internships, and continuous learning paths are designed to enhance your skills and advance your career. Innovate with Us Be part of a company that thrives on innovation and operational excellence. At AutoZone, you’ll work with a team of dedicated professionals who are always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the automotive world. Our commitment to innovation is at the core of our operations, ensuring that we stay ahead of industry trends and continue to deliver exceptional value to our customers. Networking and Career Advancement AutoZone provides a platform for networking with industry leaders and peers that can lead to incredible career opportunities. Our internal networking events, mentorship programs, and leadership training are geared towards enhancing your professional skills and helping you build meaningful connections within the industry. Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. Whether you’re seeking an entry-level position or a more senior role, AutoZone offers a path that aligns with your career ambitions. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest in career opportunities and company news at AutoZone. Subscribe to our job alert emails and stay ahead of the game with insider tips, industry news, and exclusive looks into life at AutoZone. Explore AutoZone Careers Discover the opportunities waiting for you at AutoZone. From part-time jobs to full-time careers, from internships to executive positions, AutoZone is hiring across various departments. Ready to accelerate your career? Apply today and drive your future forward with AutoZone. SEARCH AUTOZONE JOBS Join us at AutoZone, where your career journey is just beginning.
Learn more about AutoZone
Size
62,000 employees
Market Cap
$45.5 billion
Industry
Retail & Consumer Goods
Net Income
$1.8 billion
Founded
1979
5 Year Trend
+8.3%
Revenue
$13.3 billion
NASDAQ
AZO
* Ladders Estimates

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