Continuous Improvement Engineer

Location: Monett, MO

On-site Relocation Assistance: $10,000 relocation bonus plus comprehensive relocation support for candidates relocating more than 50 miles

Travel: Up to 10%

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Operational Excellence Engineer to drive continuous improvement initiatives within a high-volume manufacturing environment. This individual will play a critical role in improving plant performance, reducing operational costs, increasing efficiency, and strengthening manufacturing processes through Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and data-driven problem-solving methodologies.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on, results-oriented professional with strong manufacturing experience and a proven ability to lead multiple improvement projects simultaneously. This role requires close collaboration with plant leadership and cross-functional teams to implement sustainable process improvements, standardize operations, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Lead plant-wide continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, quality, efficiency, capacity, and waste elimination.
• Identify process improvement opportunities and develop measurable, actionable solutions.
• Champion Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to improve operational performance.
• Drive standardization, accountability, and sustainable improvements across manufacturing operations.
• Conduct Gemba walks to identify inefficiencies and implement practical solutions.

Lean Manufacturing & Six Sigma

• Lead improvement projects utilizing DMAIC, Kaizen, A3 problem-solving, and other structured methodologies.
• Implement Lean tools, including 5S, SMED, Standard Work, Daily Management Systems, Centerlining, and Process Controls.
• Apply statistical analysis and experimental design to reduce process variation and improve manufacturing capabilities.
• Train and coach employees and leadership teams on Lean principles and continuous improvement practices.

Project Management & Execution

• Manage multiple concurrent continuous improvement projects, potentially up to 30 initiatives.
• Coordinate plant-level project schedules and ensure alignment across departments.
• Prioritize initiatives based on business impact, operational needs, and organizational objectives.
• Monitor project milestones, resolve obstacles, and ensure timely completion.
• Quantify project results through cost savings, productivity improvements, and operational performance metrics.

Data Analysis & Process Optimization

• Analyze manufacturing KPIs to identify performance gaps, trends, and improvement opportunities.
• Establish performance baselines, process controls, and measurable improvement targets.
• Utilize statistical tools and data analysis to improve process capability and reduce variability.
• Evaluate financial and operational impacts of improvement initiatives, including cost savings and ROI.
• Support production scheduling, process optimization, and operational planning.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Compliance

• Partner with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, and Supply Chain teams to implement process improvements.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Process Control Plans (PCPs), and Critical Control Points (CCPs).
• Support compliance with applicable FDA, USDA, OSHA, and EPA regulations.
• Investigate process deviations, identify root causes, and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement through employee engagement, training, and change management.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in engineering, manufacturing operations, or continuous improvement.
• Experience working in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification required.
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and process improvement tools.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities independently.
• Experience analyzing manufacturing data, identifying trends, and implementing measurable improvements.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to work on-site in Monett, MO, and travel up to 10%.

Preferred Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
• Experience in continuous process manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of DMAIC, Design for Six Sigma (DFSS), and change management methodologies.
• Experience using Minitab or similar statistical analysis software.
• Familiarity with manufacturing production scheduling, supply chain, and logistics operations.
• Experience leading cross-functional training and Lean transformation initiatives.
• Ability to quantify continuous improvement results through financial savings, productivity gains, and operational KPIs.