Continuous Improvement Manager

We are seeking a highly skilled Continuous Improvement Manager to enhance operational efficiency, reduce turnaround times, and optimize aerospace aftermarket repair processes. This role will focus on reducing lead times, optimizing turnaround cycles, improving value stream flow, implementing Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), standardizing 5S practices, managing tier boards, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will apply Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and Value Stream Mapping (VSM) to streamline workflows, eliminate waste.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead continuous improvement projects to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance overall operational performance in aftermarket repair services.
• Conduct Value Stream Mapping (VSM) events to analyze current state processes, identify inefficiencies, and design optimized future state workflows.
• Reduce lead times and turnaround times (TAT) by identifying and addressing bottlenecks in repair and overhaul processes.
• Implement and sustain Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) to improve equipment uptime and reliability in repair operations.
• Drive and maintain 5S methodology to ensure an organized, efficient, and safe workspace.
• Manage tier board meetings to track key performance indicators (KPIs), improve communication, and drive accountability across teams.
• Utilize Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies to eliminate inefficiencies and improve process flow in repair and refurbishment operations.
• Analyze repair cycle times and optimize workflows from part receipt to final inspection, improving labor productivity and efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, quality, logistics, and supply chain to enhance end-to-end process efficiency.
• Train and mentor employees on continuous improvement tools, Lean principles, and problem-solving techniques.
• Develop and implement standardized work procedures to ensure sustainability and consistency in plant operations.

Key Focus Areas:

• Value Stream Mapping (VSM): Identify waste, improve process flow, and optimize value streams for aircraft component repairs.
• Turnaround Time (TAT) Reduction: Optimize MRO processes to reduce cycle times and meet on-time delivery commitments.
• Lead Time Optimization: Minimize delays in parts procurement, repair, and final inspection.
• Total Productive Maintenance (TPM): Enhance equipment reliability and uptime to improve MRO efficiency.
• 5S Implementation & Sustainment: Establish and maintain an organized, efficient, and high-performance work environment.
• Tier Board Management: Implement structured tier meetings to track performance, drive continuous improvement, and enhance communication.
• Lean & Six Sigma Integration: Apply structured problem-solving techniques to eliminate process inefficiencies and improve quality.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Aviation Maintenance, Operations Management, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 5 years of experience in continuous improvement, process optimization, or operational excellence within industrial manufacturing; aerospace aftermarket repair, MRO, or aviation maintenance (preferred)
• Strong expertise in Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Lean, Six Sigma (Green/Black Belt preferred), Kaizen, TPM, 5S, and tier board management.
• Experience working with FAA other aerospace regulatory requirements related to aftermarket repairs (Preferred)
• Proven success in reducing turnaround times (TAT) and optimizing processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with expertise in process mapping, root cause analysis, and KPI tracking.
• Ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams, from shop floor technicians to senior management.
• Experience with data analysis tools and performance measurement systems to track and report efficiency improvements.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills to drive a culture of continuous improvement.