Continuous Improvement Engineer

Title:  Continuous Improvement Engineer

Who We Are:

Carboline is a St. Louis-based coatings manufacturer with a global reach. The company, founded in 1947, produces high-quality performance coatings, linings, and fireproofing products in more than 20 manufacturing facilities around the world. Carboline has been ranked a top workplace for seven years in a row, so culture and maintaining a safe and clean work environment is something we take very seriously.

Carboline is part of RPM International Inc., a $6.1 billion, multinational company with subsidiaries that are world leaders in specialty coatings, sealants, building materials and related services. From homes and workplaces to infrastructure and precious landmarks, RPM’s market-leading brands are trusted by consumers and professionals alike to help build a better world.

If you want to be part of a growing global organization with opportunity for growth, we would like to meet you.

Position Summary:

The Continuous Improvement Engineer will be a part of Carboline Global Continuous Improvement Team supporting the development and execution of continuous improvement projects at the Lake Charles, LA manufacturing facility. The person in this role will serve as a key resource to support plant optimization efforts regarding capacity, cost, safety, quality, and environmental improvements. 

Essential Functions:

• Understanding of Lean Manufacturing/Continuous Improvement methodologies and ability to teach and model them. Investigating shortfalls, issues, and complaints in current business processes.
• Ability to influence, mentor, and coach to get results through others.
• Collaborates with operations manager and/or plant engineering on modification of equipment and processes to reduce cost and improve efficiency and quality.
• Works together with R&D, engineering, and plant resources to develop and implement continuous improvement projects.
• Collaborates with R&D on process development - Including reviewing and approving proposed manufacturing procedures for new products.
• Provides technical support and consultation to the Quality Control department. Specifically, regarding recovery plans for off-specification, obsolete, and problem finished goods.
• Monitors the consistency of production using SQC, SPC, or other appropriate techniques.
• Strong communicator with top-notch presentation skills who can develop and provide training to production personnel on matters concerning formulation, materials handling, processing, and quality procedures.
• Follow all environmental rules and regulations to ensure hazardous materials and waste are managed in an environmentally responsible manner.
• Leadership role in effort to recertify and reclaim Non-Conforming material. Works in coordination with QC and R&D to isolate, test and recertify Non-Conforming material that can be repackaged and sold.
• Observing production processes, conducting research, and finding ways to increase efficiency and quality.
• Continuously challenging the status quo understood as a day-to-day activity in our operating areas.
• Proactive problem solving based on statistical analysis of corrective actions / assigned by Engineering Director, Plant Manufacturing Manager, QA, EHS projects.
• Selection and development of tools and fixtures for improvements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• Commitment to the Company’s Safety and Quality programs. Take an active role in hazard recognition and injury prevention by following all safety rules & regulations.

Requirements:

• 4 years Chemistry, Engineering degree or equivalent experience, minimum 3 years’ experience in a CI role.
• Formal training in Lean and/or Six Sigma methodologies preferred Green Belt.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as procedure manuals, operating and maintenance manuals and safety rules. 
• Ability to use a computer for all company required processes, procedures, and trainings.

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee must have the ability to stand for up to four hours regularly, required to use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit and climb or balance. Any function may be performed for up to four hours with no breaks.

What We Offer:

We offer a team atmosphere that fosters cooperation and creativity; a management team committed to employee development and an environment where people are empowered to make decisions. Our career opportunities offer unlimited earnings potential and our comprehensive benefits package is among the best in the industry which includes affordable benefits, a company match 401K plan and a retirement pension plan. This position will also have the option to work from home 1 day per week after 6 months. 

Carboline is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace. Individuals with Disabilities and Protected Veterans are encouraged to apply.

“In order to be the best, we must hire the best”