Specialist, Lean /Continuous Improvement

Specialist, Lean /Continuous Improvement

We are searching for an experienced Specialist, Lean /Continuous Improvement at our Connecticut PDC facility.

Hyundai MOBIS Parts America

We think creatively and keep challenging ourselves to help create a new future and eventually make humankind’s dreams a reality. Ready for the challenge?

Who We Are

Tomorrow's most advanced automotive technology is being envisioned today at MOBIS Parts America (MPA). A subsidiary of Hyundai MOBIS, we are a top leading automotive parts supplier. MPA provides after-sales service parts support for Hyundai Motors, Kia Motors, and Genesis. In addition to the distribution of genuine service parts, the MPA Accessories division develops accessories for Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis - which are installed on new vehicles in the United States and Canada.

Description

Job Purpose

The Lean/Continuous Improvement Specialist drives hands-on continuous improvement initiatives across MOBIS Parts Distribution Centers. This role partners with warehouse teams to identify operational issues, implement Lean and Six Sigma solutions, and improve safety, quality, productivity, inventory accuracy, and waste reduction. The position also supports efforts to reduce dealer damage claims, maintain company assets, coordinate preventative maintenance and equipment repairs, and communicate improvement results to Headquarters.

Key Accountabilities

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Lead and support Lean and continuous improvement initiatives across PDC and warehouse operations.
• Identify opportunities to improve safety, quality, productivity, inventory accuracy, material flow, cost, and operational efficiency.
• Partner with Headquarters, regional teams, PDC leadership, supervisors, and associates to develop and implement improvement initiatives.
• Facilitate Kaizen activities and manage the continuous improvement suggestion program.

Process Analysis & Standardization

• Analyze operational processes and performance data to identify inefficiencies, root causes, and improvement opportunities.
• Develop and implement corrective actions and countermeasures based on data and operational findings.
• Develop, maintain, and improve SOPs, Standard Work Instructions (SWIs), visual management tools, and other operating standards.
• Ensure approved standards are properly implemented, followed, and sustained within the PDC.

Project Management & Implementation

• Manage continuous improvement projects from planning through implementation and completion, ensuring schedule, scope, and budget requirements are met.
• Work directly with warehouse associates and supervisors to implement process changes and improvements on the floor.
• Prepare business cases, A3 reports, work instructions, project documentation, and completion reports.
• Coordinate implementation of new processes, equipment, technologies, and operational standards.

KPI, Reporting & Communication

• Collect and analyze operational data using Excel and internal systems.
• Develop, monitor, and report KPIs used to measure operational performance and improvement results.
• Communicate project status, risks, results, and recommendations to management.
• Follow up on completed improvements to ensure expected results are achieved and sustained.

Facility, Equipment & Vendor Support

• Coordinate assigned facility, equipment, maintenance, and on-site vendor activities.
• Conduct facility walks with vendors and internal teams to identify and address building, equipment, and operational issues.
• Ensure assigned maintenance activities are completed, documented, and reported appropriately.
• Support proper utilization of materials, equipment, and resources according to department and Headquarters requirements.

Training & Collaboration

• Train and coach employees on Lean, problem-solving, standard work, safety, and continuous improvement practices.
• Collaborate with Operations, Quality, Supply Chain, Headquarters, regional teams, and other stakeholders to resolve operational challenges.
• Promote employee engagement, accountability, problem-solving, and a culture of continuous improvement.
• Perform all other duties as assigned by management.

Major Challenges and Key Decisions

The Lean/Continuous Improvement Specialist is expected to independently identify and resolve operational issues with minimal supervision while working within established policies and standards. The Specialist must demonstrate sound judgment, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively across departments to develop solutions, implement improvements, and sustain results.

Work Schedule and Travel Requirements

Work Schedule

• Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Flexible schedule at the discretion and approval of the manager

Travel Required

• Yes

Travel Details

• Minimal overnight travel (up to 10%) by land and/or air

Required Qualifications

Experience Requirements

Preferred Experience

• 2 to 4 years of experience in a warehousing or distribution center environment
• Exposure to Lean, Six Sigma, TPS, and operational excellence programs
• Experience leading process improvement initiatives in operations
• Project coordination experience

Education Requirements

Preferred Education

• Bachelor's Degree in any field

Licenses / Certifications

Preferred

• Lean Certification

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs)

• Intermediate computer skills, including email, databases, word processing, and spreadsheets
• Strong reasoning ability with the capability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to work on the floor in a fast-paced warehouse or distribution environment
• Intermediate Excel and general computer proficiency

Employment Type - Non-Exempt, Annual Salary

Compensation - The expected hiring range for this position is $54,363.95 - 80,186.83, depending on experience and qualifications.

Hyundai Mobis Parts America - Benefits

We offer a competitive benefits package for full-time employees which include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• 401K with employer matching
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Vacation, Paid Sick Days and Paid Holidays
• Mapped career plans; we believe in developing and promoting our talent!
• Company Discounts & more!

Our company provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.