We have an exciting position open for an Engineer, Operational Excellence & Continuous Improvement in our Cary, IL location. This role plays a critical role in driving continuous improvement across the Cary Campus. This role leads improvement projects, supervises/mentors OE Coordinators, and ensures consistent application of Lean and AOS tools. The OE Engineer will also ensure alignment between operational improvement initiatives and workforce development. This role partners with site leadership, APU Managers, and CI teams to foster a culture of excellence and deliver measurable results. This is how your journey begins:- Lead mid-scale continuous improvement projects across production, logistics, and quality.
- Supervise and mentor Training Coordinators, ensuring effective execution of improvement and training initiatives.
- Facilitate cross-functional teams using structured problem-solving methods (QRQC, A3, DMAIC).
- Monitor and analyze KPIs (OEE, scrap, OTIF, downtime) and drive corrective actions.
- Ensure consistent use of OE tools such as 5S, SMED, TPM, and GBS across departments.
- Support digitalization efforts, including automated data collection and dashboard reporting.
- Coordinate site readiness for AOS Self-Evaluations and improvement planning.
- Track and identify cost savings incentives and update and track AIP savings
- Oversee development and delivery of training programs in collaboration with Training Coordinators.
- Assess training effectiveness and ensure alignment with operational goals and OE strategies.
- Communicate performance insights and improvement opportunities to site leadership.
- Promote Aptar-e and #PrideforProductivity principles throughout the campus.
What You Will Bring on the JourneyEducation
- BS degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or equivalent experience.
- Six Sigma certification and Lean Management knowledge.
- Must obtain Aptar Black Belt Certification within 24 months of assuming the role.
Experience
- Proven experience in project management and continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment.
- Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma and digital transformation tools.
Skills
- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence change across departments.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving and change management capabilities.
- Exceptional written, verbal and presentation skills for effective communication at all organizational levels.
- Skilled in analyzing complex processes and implementing solutions that enhance operational efficiency.
- Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to quality, organization and time management.
What We Offer:- An exciting, diverse and value based working environment
- Award-winning corporate university offering personal development and training opportunities.
- Competitive base salary and performance-based bonus plan.
- Contribute to the communities where we reside.
- Innovative benefits plan which include: 401k & Retirement Savings plan, vacation, medical, dental, vision, life, disability, pet insurance, wellness plan, and generous paid maternity/paternity leave].
In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the starting salary range for this role is $95,000 - 120,000. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. Aptar also offers a variety of benefits, including health, life, and disability insurance, 401(k) match and employer retirement savings contribution, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, company-paid holidays, and more. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on location, pay class, or other factors.
