What are the responsibilities and job description for the Continuous Improvement Manager (Onsite Position) position at Metal Craft Machine & Engineering?
Metal Craft is looking for a Continuous Improvement Manager that plays a pivotal role in driving operational excellence across manufacturing and office processes for both locations. This position is responsible for identifying inefficiencies, recommending solutions, and leading efforts to optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, the manager will support the organization’s goals for growth, quality, and efficiency. If you have a strong background in Six Sigma, LEAN, a passion for making improvements, and the ability to improve processes, this is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact. Join us and be a key player in our continued growth and excellence!
Our Culture is best in class! “Built right. Every time” is not just a slogan, we build things that make a difference in people’s lives. A career at METAL CRAFT is rewarding for far more reasons than you might imagine. Your experience and expertise are highly valued, your contributions are recognized, and your professional goals are supported. We understand there are lots of choices out there, that is why for over 40 years we have been providing stability, a safe and clean environment, challenging work and are invested in the growth of our people to take them as far as they want to go.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Developing a Lean Culture: Lead the development and sustainment of a Lean culture across the organization, utilizing Lean tools to identify opportunities for waste reduction and performance improvement.
- Leadership Engagement: Partner with leaders at all levels to drive continuous improvement initiatives, eliminate flow inhibitors, and implement best practices to achieve operational excellence.
- Data Analysis for Cost Reduction: Utilize data analysis tools and techniques to identify inefficiencies and cost reduction opportunities across manufacturing and operational processes. Analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational data to drive data-informed decision-making and continuous improvement efforts aimed at reducing costs and improving profitability.
- Project Management: Lead and manage continuous improvement projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and within budget. Coordinate resources, track project progress, and manage any challenges that arise. Develop and maintain project timelines, risk management plans, and communication strategies to ensure project success.
- Lean Manufacturing Coordination: Plan and execute Lean activities, including Kaizen events, projects, and other Lean initiatives. Ensure proper execution of Lean techniques and the sustainability of improvements across various departments.
- Reporting & Impact Analysis: Estimate and report on the financial impact of Lean efforts in areas such as quality, service, innovation, and people. Track the results of Kaizen activities, including the number of events, sustained improvements, and overall impact on the business.
- Strategic Prioritization: Prioritize improvement opportunities aligned with the company’s strategic goals, including growth, service, safety, quality, cost, and cash flow.
- Travel: This position requires weekly travel between the Elk River, MN, and Eau Claire, WI locations.
Knowledge / Skills / Abilities:
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.)
- Proficient in ERP system utilization. M1 experience a plus.
- Strong experience in data analysis, with the ability to analyze large datasets to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement
- Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively
- Strong reading comprehension and the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights
- Excellent communication (both written and verbal) and presentation skills
- Highly organized with a deep understanding of manufacturing and operational processes
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify root causes and develop solutions
- Ability to build professional relationships and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
- Utilizes metrics to support and align with organizational objectives and goals
Education:
- Preferred: Bachelor's Degree in a related field; LEAN or Six Sigma certification or equivalent experience is highly preferred
- 3-5 years of relevant experience in continuous improvement
- Proven experience in project management, including leading cross-functional teams and managing multiple projects simultaneously
Benefits Eligible position (Health, Dental, Vision, 401K, profit sharing, holiday pay, PTO)
Onsite Position
Exempt Position
Metal Craft and Riverside are Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age, or any other federally protected class.
