Continuous Improvement Coordinator

Palmer Candy Company • Sioux City, IA

40d

About The Position

The Continuous Improvement (CI) Coordinator is responsible for fostering and driving a culture of continuous improvement throughout our food manufacturing plants. This role will identify, coordinate, and implement process enhancements to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory requirements. The coordinator will be a hands-on coach and facilitator, working closely with all levels of the organization to achieve measurable operational excellence.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, Operations Management, Food Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: 2-3+ years of experience leading continuous improvement initiatives in a manufacturing environment, preferably within the food industry.
• Technical Skills: Strong knowledge and practical application of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, and Root Cause Analysis methodologies.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical process control tools (e.g., MS Excel, Power BI).
• Familiarity with food safety and quality management systems (HACCP, GMP, SQF).
• Soft Skills: Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and motivate team members at all levels.
• A passion for change and a proactive, data-driven mindset.

Responsibilities

• Lead CI Initiatives: Plan, coordinate, and execute CI projects and events (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping) to deliver sustainable improvements in safety, quality, and cost.
• Process Analysis & Optimization: Analyze current manufacturing processes, collect production data (OEE, downtime, yield loss, etc.), and use problem-solving tools (root cause analysis, 5 Whys) to identify and eliminate waste and inefficiencies.
• Training & Coaching: Train and mentor staff at all levels on CI methodologies and tools, promoting a continuous learning environment and building internal capabilities.
• Data Collection & Reporting: Develop and maintain Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and dashboards to track progress and report outcomes of CI initiatives to management and stakeholders. Support and Coordinate Steering Committee Meetings and present in manager’s absence.
• Documentation & Standardization: Assist with creating and maintaining standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions, ensuring new processes are standardized and sustained.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Serve as a liaison between departments (Production, Quality Assurance, Maintenance, Safety) to ensure smooth implementation of changes and alignment with business goals.
• Compliance: Work closely with the Quality team to ensure all improvements comply with food safety regulations and certifications (e.g., HACCP, GMP, SQF, FDA).
• Regular and timely attendance is required for this job.
• Other duties as assigned by manager.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees