Continuous Improvement Engineer

Precision Plus Inc•Elkhorn, WI

5h•Onsite

About The Position

The Continuous Improvement Engineer is responsible for driving efficiency, safety, and process optimization across Reader Precision Solutions’ advanced machine shop operations. This role is project-focused, driven by the needs of the Company and its employees, and emphasizes hands-on execution to support lean manufacturing initiatives throughout the production floor. Working closely with production, quality, and maintenance teams, the Continuous Improvement Engineer will identify opportunities, implement sustainable improvements, and foster a culture of continuous learning and operational excellence. This position offers exposure to Swiss machining and CNC machining, while also collaborating with cross-functional departments and applying industrial and systems engineering principles. The engineer will have the opportunity to make a direct impact on daily operations while learning the intricacies of precision manufacturing.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or related field preferred; equivalent education or relevant work experience will also be considered.
0–3 years of experience in a manufacturing or process improvement role; internship or production floor exposure strongly valued.
Familiarity with lean manufacturing tools such as 5S, kaizen, value stream mapping, and standard work is desired.
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with a hands-on mindset.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and basic data analysis.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work across departments.

Responsibilities

Continuous Improvement Projects Plan, coordinate, and execute lean and kaizen initiatives across all production departments.
Lead 5S projects in mechanical and CNC tooling areas to improve organization, ergonomics, and productivity.
Support the design and optimization of workstations and part cleaning stations across the production floor, including improvements to finishing and secondary equipment areas.
Lean Methodologies Implement lean methodologies such as 5S, standard work, visual management, and waste elimination.
Conduct time studies, process mapping, and ergonomic assessments to identify inefficiencies and improvement opportunities.
Documentation & Systems Maintenance Develop, update, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), training documents, and maintenance records.
Maintain and optimize the use of the Matrix Tool Crib software to ensure tooling accuracy, accessibility, and efficiency.
Create visual management tools (charts, signage, work instructions) to reinforce standards across departments.
Hands-On Support Collaborate directly with department leads to trial and validate new processes.
Provide hands-on assistance in fixture assembly, workstation setup, and organization of materials or kits, requiring basic use of tool room equipment such as mills and 3D printers.
Act as a resource for ergonomic improvements, ensuring compliance with safety policies and enhancing operator comfort and longevity.
Problem Solving & Culture Building Facilitate root cause analysis sessions to identify process bottlenecks and partner with department leads to develop and implement more efficient solutions.
Partner with leadership to drive action items and monitor project progress.
Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement throughout the production floor.

Benefits

RPS team members enjoy a challenging & fast-paced work environment in a high-tech manufacturing facility named one of the TOP WORKPLACES by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel THREE YEARS IN A ROW (2022, 2023 & 2024) and the 35th Annual Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year .
Our work environment is extremely clean, well lit, organized (5S), & climate-controlled.
In addition, our team thrives in a supportive culture that provides engaged leadership, ongoing recognition for performance results, & a great benefits package.
Competitive wages (paid weekly on Thursday's)
8% of base pay shift differential (2nd & 3rd shift)
Benefits begin the month following 30 days of employment: health insurance with points based, holistic wellness program, dental, life, & disability insurance
Partnership with a near site local clinic for FREE health services including primary & preventative care, walk in visits, labs, prescriptions, etc.
FREE vision insurance!
401(k) retirement savings plan with up to 4.5% company match (immediately vested!)
Vacation accrual starts upon hire - accrue up to 2.5 weeks in first year!
9 paid holidays with up to two discretionary holidays each year
Education assistance up to $5,250 annually (after 12 months of service)
Professional development opportunities – internal & external (cross-departmental training, PMPA conferences, IMTS-Chicago, local technical colleges/universities, & more…)
Career advancement – ongoing training & mentoring with opportunity to grow your skills
Performance bonus – potential to receive a discretionary year-end bonus based on individual and group performance
Company paid Short-Term Disability policy
Company events – team lunches, summer picnic event, holiday party
Company zoo pass to Milwaukee County Zoo
Voluntary pet insurance
Holistic wellness program – earn up to $700 in incentives through points accumulation for accomplishing a variety of wellness activities. Also offered by the Company are employer paid onsite flu shots, biometric screenings, free health coaching & MUCH more!
Employer paid life insurance – $50,000 policy with options for voluntary life up to $400,000 benefit maximum
Financial planning resources & onsite financial wellness workshops
Employer subsidized work shoes & safety glasses program
Reader Precision Solutions branded attire – $100 annual allowance
Employee Referral bonus – $1,000
Satisfying work…leaving work at the end of the day knowing that the GREAT work you do is meaningful and appreciated by the Company, our clients, and end users who benefit from the high-quality components we manufacture for them!
With the right mix of drive, commitment to excellence, & consistent performance, you will have the opportunity to further develop your skills in different areas with increasing responsibilities & rewards!