CI Engineer

Join NELLSON and Become Part of a Winning Team of Professionals!

We currently have an immediate opportunity for a Continuous Improvement Process Engineer to join the BARS DIVISION at our ONTARIO, CALIFORNIA location. Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

Position Summary

The Continuous Improvement (CI) Engineer is responsible for driving process optimization, operational efficiency, and cost reduction initiatives within a food manufacturing environment. This role utilizes Lean manufacturing principles, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration to identify improvement opportunities, standardize processes, and implement sustainable solutions that enhance productivity, quality, and operational performance.

Essential Functions

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies.
• Identify opportunities to improve production efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize manufacturing processes.
• Analyze production data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Facilitate root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions for process inefficiencies and quality issues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Production, Maintenance, Quality, and Engineering to implement process improvements.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions to support process standardization.
• Support new equipment installation and process changes to ensure optimal performance and integration.
• Conduct training sessions to promote continuous improvement culture and Lean principles.
• Monitor and report on improvement project progress, savings, and operational impact.
• Drive initiatives related to cycle time reduction, yield improvement, and cost savings.
• Ensure compliance with safety, GMP, and regulatory requirements during implementation of process changes.
• Support capital projects and engineering initiatives aligned with operational goals.

Additional Duties

Support special improvement projects, cross-functional initiatives, and operational excellence programs. Perform other duties as assigned based on business needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical, or related field) required.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in manufacturing, process improvement, or continuous improvement roles.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ability to interpret data and implement solutions.
• Experience with process mapping, root cause analysis, and statistical tools.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Experience in food manufacturing or regulated environments preferred.

Physical Demands

This position requires a combination of office and production floor work, including standing, walking, and interacting with equipment and processes, with occasional lifting, while reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable laws.

Work Environment

This position operates in both office and manufacturing environments, requiring exposure to production areas, varying temperatures, and equipment, while adhering to safety, GMP, and PPE requirements in a fast-paced, continuous improvement-driven setting.

EEO & Compliance Statement

The Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to compliance with all applicable employment laws and regulations and makes employment decisions based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, while prohibiting discrimination, harassment, and retaliation and providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws.

Employment Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of all duties, and the Company reserves the right to modify responsibilities at any time based on business needs, with employees potentially assigned additional duties, and employment being at-will where applicable and subject to termination by either party at any time in accordance with applicable laws.

At Nellson, we invest in highly talented individuals and provide them with opportunities to continuously learn and grow to realize their full potential. Our state-of-the-art facilities, warehouses, and corporate offices offer a knowledgeable and professional environment to employees. By joining our performance-oriented team, you will be able to put your expertise to use and positively impact many groups across our production process.

Nellson offers competitive pay, career growth opportunities, and an outstanding benefits program that features:

* Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage

* Generous Paid Time Off

* 401(k) with Company Match

* Flexible schedules

* Professional Development & Tuition Reimbursement

* And Many More Employee-Friendly Programs!

Nellson is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other status protected by law. You may visit our website at to view current job openings.