Continuous Improvement Engineer

The CIP (Continuous Improvement Process) Engineer is responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing improvements that enhance safety, quality, productivity, cost, and operational efficiency. This role partners closely with operations, engineering, maintenance, quality, and other cross-functional teams to analyze processes, identify root causes of performance gaps, and deliver sustainable improvement initiatives. The CIP Engineer will utilize data-driven problem-solving and continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, root cause analysis, and standard work to reduce waste, improve process capability, optimize workflow, and increase equipment and labor effectiveness. The role also supports the development of a continuous improvement culture by facilitating improvement projects, tracking results, standardizing successful solutions, and coaching team members on structured problem-solving techniques. The ideal candidate combines strong analytical and technical skills with a hands-on approach and the ability to influence teams across the organization. Success in this position is measured by the delivery of measurable, sustainable improvements in operational performance and the effective implementation of continuous improvement practices.

Responsibilities & Requirements:  

• Implement & support lean manufacturing (develop cell layout and design based upon projected customer demand, incorporate safety and ergonomic factors, electronic data presentation and tracking, progressive quality checks, linearity, etc.) 
• Champion continuous improvement efforts associated with various manufacturing processes
• Utilize data to perform root cause identification and implement root cause corrective actions.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to improve lead times, reduce product cost, analyze and reduce costs of nonconformance, evaluate new products and/or product enhancements, etc.
• Creation and implementation of best practice Lean vision, strategy, policies, processes and procedures to aid and improve operational performance.
• Support and implementation of new business initiatives and projects and review the impact.
• Develop and implement a robust continuous improvement strategy in partnership with the team and other stakeholders.
• Support the mission and targets of the company.
• Handle and report on production, projects, risks, dependencies, budgets, resources, issues, critical milestones, required investments.
• Define and implement actions to ensure success and conformity.
• Undertake and organize continuous training and development utilizing the train-the-trainer methodology
• Identify business improvement opportunities with proactive strategies for implementation.
• Ensure that all activities are in accordance with health, safety and environmental policies and procedures as defined by the local VIOSH and company HSE requirements.
• Develop and build a culture of encouragement, empowerment and engagement.
• Develop annual development plans and provide input on organization/capability/succession planning.
• Motivate and coach to operational success.
• Input and hold responsibility for budgets.
• Monthly/Quarter/Annual forecast activities.
• Cost follow-up.
• Anticipate and overcome obstacles to reach the target.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to ensure optimal performance.
• Ensure an effective interface with the departmental staff is maintained.
• Other duties as assigned.

Preferred Experience / Skills:

• Excellent cross-functional team leadership and management skills.

• BS or BA Degree in a relevant field,
• BS/MS degree in Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering or similar preferred

• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills.
• Excellent organizational and follow-up skills.
• Competent in problem solving, team building, planning and decision making.
• Commercially and financially aware.
• 8+ years’ experience in a manufacturing and/or engineering environment.
• Six Sigma Black Belt, Green Belt, or LEAN Certified                                                                            
• 7 Quality Tool Practitioner (fishbone, 5 Why’s/ Ishikawa, Histograms, Control Charts, Pareto Analysis, Scatter Diagrams, and Stratification)
• Background in project management.
• Knowledge of ERP systems, preferred SAP, including production modules.