What are the responsibilities and job description for the Continuous Improvement Specialist position at LB Foster?
This role structures and implements continuous improvement initiatives at both the corporate office and in various manufacturing locations across the company. The ideal candidate will collaborate with various departments to align the company strategy with specific improvement projects. The Continuous Improvement Specialist will structure and lead kaizen events at various locations and track the status and effectiveness of projects through completion. The position also coordinates and delivers company-wide Lean training.
Responsibilities: (Essential Functions)
1. Assist department leaders in aligning the company strategy with specific improvement projects across the company.
2. Lead kaizen events using lean principles and methodologies at various locations across the company.
3. Implement new CI initiatives set forth by the company into manufacturing locations.
4. Collaborate with all departments to align processes and achieve business goals.
5. Facilitate the use of statistical methods and performance metrics to understand and improve performance.
6. Develop and deliver training programs across the company for lean manufacturing techniques such as 5S, Kaizen, and Value Stream Mapping.
7. Collaborate with location leaders to track the status of improvement projects.
8. Assist location managers to develop processes and improved workflow.
9. Assist location managers develop and implement cost-saving measures and quality control systems using LEAN manufacturing techniques.
10. Travel to manufacturing plant locations in North America to lead events.
Experience, Education, & License Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum of five years of experience in Continuous Improvement leadership role.
• Experience leading and tracking kaizen events.
• Experience aligning CI projects with business direction and strategy.
• Proficiency in project management, data analysis, and problem-solving.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Formal Lean training is required, Lean Six Sigma experience is preferred.
Skills & Abilities:
• Analytical thinking and attention to detail.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to lead and motivate teams.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis and performance metrics.
• Proficient with Microsoft Excel (formulas, pivot tables, hyperlinks, sorting and searching data.
• Ability to travel up to 30%.
Competencies:
Technical Competencies:
1. Lean Principles: Deep understanding of lean manufacturing principles, including waste reduction and process efficiency.
2. Process Improvement: Proficiency in methodologies like Six Sigma, Kaizen, and 5S to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
3. Statistical Analysis: Ability to use statistical methods to analyze and improve processes.
4. Project Management: Skills in managing projects, including planning, execution, and monitoring.
Soft Competencies:
1. Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to identify and resolve issues in manufacturing processes.
2. Communication: Effective communication skills to explain complex ideas and collaborate with various departments.
3. Team Leadership: Ability to lead and motivate teams to implement lean initiatives.
4. Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to new technologies and changing manufacturing environments.
5. Continuous Improvement Mindset: Commitment to ongoing learning and improvement.
