CI Specialist

Continuous Improvement Specialist

The CI Specialist supports the coordination and execution of Lean transformational activities within an assigned department or value stream, champions change, and serves as a resource for Lean improvement. Working under the direction of the CI Manager and in partnership with Plant Leadership, this position provides guidance and follow-through to support the completion of departmental sustainment goals and objectives by delivering results in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and morale.

This role focuses on applying established CI tools and standard work at the department level. Improvement activity is typically defined in scope, executed within an assigned area, and supported by the CI Manager or Sr. CI Specialist.

Key Responsibilities:

• Works closely with the CI Manager and Plant Leadership to:
• Build an employee engaged work environment
• Develop and maintain tracking tools and measures that support CI initiatives
• Provide and teach a Continuous Improvement mindset and foundational CI techniques to employees
• Facilitates point kaizen and departmental improvement events to drive sustainable initiatives within an assigned area.
• Participates as a team member in more complex, cross-functional, and full-week improvement events led by the CI Manager or Sr. CI Specialist.
• Analyzes department-level data to identify improvement opportunities and supports the CI Manager in prioritizing them.
• Works individually or as a team member to perform and teach root cause analysis using standard problem-solving tools.
• Supports the establishment and execution of productivity pipeline projects within an assigned department.
• Manages multiple defined-scope projects at the same time, meeting committed timelines and deliverables.
• Tracks project status and results, escalating barriers and sustainment risks to the CI Manager.
• Supports peers and colleagues to drive performance across the organization.

Qualifications:

• Education:
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required.
• Two (2) years of college coursework or an associate degree preferred.
• Experience:
• Two (2) or more years working in a manufacturing environment required.
• Exposure to Lean, Six Sigma, TPM, or WCM.
• Prior participation in kaizen or structured improvement events preferred.
• Certifications: Six Sigma Yellow Belt or Green Belt certification a plus, or willingness to obtain.
• Technical Skills:
• Knowledge and experience with ERP systems (SAP preferred).
• Working proficiency in MS Excel and standard computer applications.
• Working knowledge of foundational CI tools, including 5S, standard work, visual management, and root cause analysis.
• Skills:
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to give and acknowledge instructions and problems.
• Strong self-confidence and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work with autonomy on assigned scope.
• Accurate and detail oriented.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, and/or schedule form.
• Ability to work well with others in stressful situations and meet deadlines as necessary.
• Ability to handle several priorities and tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to support and lead change within an assigned area.
• Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position. It is the candidate's responsibility to ensure they are legally authorized to work in the location to which they apply.

The pay range for this full-time, salaried position is $52,034- $78,052/year. Individual base pay depends on work location and additional factors such as experience, job-related skills, and relevant education or training. The position is eligible for a discretionary annual incentive based on company and individual performance. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, 401k and wellness benefits beginning on the first day of employment.

This information is provided per the relevant state and local pay transparency laws for the location in which this position will be performed. Base pay information is based on market location.

Maker's Pride is an Equal Opportunity Employer.