Continuous Improvement Manager

GENERAL SUMMARY:

This is a salaried position in Manteno, IL that reports to the Plant Manager. The Continuous Improvement Manager will support the Plant Manager by leading initiatives to enhance plant efficiency, reduce waste, optimize inventory management, and reinforce adherence to established processes and procedures. This role will utilize methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, 5S, TPM, and other improvement frameworks to address critical plant issues, including inventory accuracy, operational compliance, waste reduction, sanitation standards, onboarding effectiveness, and production efficiencies (OEE, cost per unit, labor hours).

SCOPE OF JOB FUNCTION

Continuous Improvement Initiatives:

• Identify opportunities and implement improvement strategies aligned with plant objectives under the direction of the Plant Manager.
• Utilize Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, and 5S methodologies to drive operational excellence.
• Lead and facilitate Kaizen events and continuous improvement projects.

Inventory Management:

• Evaluate current inventory processes, identifying and addressing root causes of inventory inaccuracies and inefficiencies.
• Develop strategies to improve inventory accuracy and minimize waste.
• Collaborate closely with the supply chain and warehouse teams to implement best practices.

Process Compliance:

• Ensure operator compliance with established manufacturing processes and systems.
• Provide training, guidance, and oversight to reinforce standard operating procedures.
• Implement visual management tools and process audits to enhance accountability and adherence.

Waste Reduction:

• Conduct detailed analysis to identify sources of production waste and inefficiencies.
• Implement corrective action plans to minimize waste and improve product yield.
• Monitor and report on waste reduction outcomes regularly.

Sanitation Improvement:

• Partner with Quality Assurance to enhance sanitation protocols and adherence to regulatory standards.
• Lead initiatives aimed at improving overall plant cleanliness and sanitation effectiveness.

Onboarding and Training:

• Develop and maintain a structured onboarding program for new operators and other plant personnel.
• Assess, identify, and address training gaps, providing ongoing training to ensure proficiency and compliance.

Efficiency & Performance Metrics:

• Drive improvements in Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), reducing cost per unit and optimizing labor hours.
• Analyze production data to pinpoint efficiency improvements and implement corresponding action plans.
• Regularly report key performance indicators to the Plant Manager.

Working Conditions:

• Position based primarily on the production floor; requires ability to work in a manufacturing environment.
• Must adhere to plant safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines.
• Other duties as assigned.

SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/EXPERIENCE

Education and Experience :

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Operations Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in manufacturing, preferably within the food processing or salad dressing industry.

Skills and Competencies

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams effectively.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, ERP/MRP systems, and analytical tools

The duties of this position are those described above. This job description does not state or imply that the duties listed are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Employees holding this position will be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by management.

Applicants or current team members with a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act (ADAAA), or any state or local law which prohibits them from performing the essential functions of the job may request a reasonable accommodation in writing or by contacting the human resources department, in accordance with PLM policies.