SUMMARYThe Continuous Improvement Manager leads continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations at the Baxter Springs facility. This role partners with Operations, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Maintenance, Safety, and HR to improve safety, quality, delivery, productivity, cost, and overall operational performance.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following:
- Develop and execute site continuous improvement initiatives aligned with business goals.
- Lead Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, value stream mapping, root cause analysis, and process improvement projects.
- Identify and eliminate waste, improve workflow, and support standard work across machining, fabrication, welding, assembly, and support areas.
- Establish, monitor, and report key performance metrics, including safety, quality, productivity, labor efficiency, scrap, OEE, on-time delivery, and cost savings.
- Partner with Quality and Engineering to support corrective actions, reduce defects, and improve process capability.
- Train and coach supervisors and employees on Lean, problem-solving, and continuous improvement tools.
- Support employee engagement through idea generation, CI participation, and development of CI champions.
- Assist with layout, material flow, capital improvement, safety, and facility optimization projects.
- Ensure continuous improvement activities support safety, compliance, and operational excellence objectives.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:
- Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, value stream mapping, and root cause analysis.
- Ability to lead cross-functional improvement projects and influence change at all levels.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, facilitation, and communication skills.
- Experience using production data, KPIs, Excel, ERP systems, and reporting tools to drive improvements.
- Ability to work effectively in a manufacturing environment and partner across multiple departments.
EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field preferred.
- Equivalent combination of education and manufacturing experience may be considered.
- 5 to 10 years of manufacturing experience preferred.
- 3 to 5 years of continuous improvement or operational excellence experience preferred.
- Experience in machining, fabrication, industrial products, precision manufacturing, or assembly environments preferred.
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt, Certified Lean Practitioner, or Project Management certification preferred.
LOCATIONBaxter Springs, Kansas
The physical demands described here are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the team member is regularly required to sit or stand for an 8+ hour shift. Lift, carry, and move 50+ pounds. Push, pull, reach, bend, and twist your body. Travel up and down stairs. Maneuver around tight equipment.
