About the Organization:

We are in the middle of a true operational transformation — moving from tribal knowledge and reactive processes to a disciplined, data-driven, standardized manufacturing environment. This is not “check-the-box Lean.” We are building systems, accountability, and a sustainable culture of continuous improvement. If you are hands-on, execution-focused, and motivated by measurable results, this is an opportunity to drive real change.

Position Overview:

The Continuous Improvement Plant Director will lead high-impact operational improvement initiatives across manufacturing. This role goes beyond analysis — you will implement solutions, train teams, standardize processes, and ensure improvements are sustained. High visibility role working cross-functionally with Production, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain, with direct visibility to senior leadership.

Responsibilities:

• Lead continuous improvement and lean manufacturing initiatives
• Identify and eliminate operational bottlenecks (quality escapes, rework, prep time, inefficient assembly, material flow issues, etc.)
• Lead Lean and Six Sigma (DMAIC) projects delivering measurable improvements in cost, quality, and cycle time
• Drive root cause analysis and implement sustainable corrective actions
• Convert tribal knowledge into Standard Work, SOPs, and clear work instructions and help move the operation toward a paperless, analytics-driven environment
• Support development of scalable, repeatable processes
• Develop and track KPIs (scrap, rework, downtime, OTD, cycle time)
• Analyze shop floor data and present actionable insights to leadership
• Measure and report savings in dollars, hours reduced, and risk mitigation
• Support ERP improvements, system integrations and implement visual management tools and structured shop floor controls
• Implement digital tools (Power BI, Excel, Power Automate, digital checklists)
• Deliver hands-on Lean/CI training to operators, leads, and supervisors
• Lead Kaizen events, Gemba walks, and cross-functional improvement workshops
• Reinforce accountability and continuous improvement mindset at all levels

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• 7+ years of hands-on manufacturing engineering or continuous improvement experience
• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing (5S, VSM, SMED, Poka-Yoke, Visual Management) and Six Sigma (DMAIC, root cause analysis)
• Experience developing standard work, driving real improvements, measurable cost savings, cycle time reductions and shop floor digital tools
• Bilingual English/Spanish Required

Nice to Have:

• Six Sigma Black/Green Belt or Lean certification
• Background in Aerospace, heavy fabrication, or complex assembly preferred
• Experience leading ERP transitions, implementing MES and digital work instruction systems
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 or AS9100 a Huge Plus
• Demonstrated track record of measurable operational improvements
• Self-starter who takes ownership, stands behind data-driven decisions, and thrives in a hands-on environment