Continuous Improvement Manager

A. O. Smith Corporation • TN

119d

About The Position

We’re seeking a driven and strategic Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager to lead transformational initiatives across our manufacturing facility. You will champion a culture of operational excellence and drive efficiency, productivity, and quality through Lean and data-driven improvement methods. If you thrive on solving complex problems, empowering teams, and delivering measurable impact—this role is for you.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Related Field.
• Minimum 8 years’ experience implementing lean tools and thinking in manufacturing or transactional environments.
• Minimum 4 years’ Supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a team, document improvement results, and effectively communicate those results.
• Strengths in organization, project management/leadership, prioritization, multi-tasking, process documentation, and managing and meeting deadlines.
• Analytical mindset with proficiency in tools like Excel or other process analysis software.
• Strong experience using Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Microsoft Outlook).

Nice To Haves

• MBA is preferred.
• Lean/Six-sigma certifications are a plus, but not required.
• Coaching certification is a plus, but not required.
• Formal training in Change Management Preferred.
• Masters’ Degree a plus, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute CI strategies that align with plant and company-level KPIs (Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost, HRD).
• Facilitate kaizen events, root cause analysis (RCA), and cross-functional workshops to solve operational challenges.
• Coach and mentor employees at all levels to embed Lean thinking and continuous improvement tools (5S, SMED, A3).
• Partner with production, engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to identify, prioritize, and implement CI projects and multiyear savings plans / CIP (Cost Improvement Plans).
• Use data analysis and visual management tools (dashboards, value stream maps, process maps) to uncover opportunities and track improvements.
• Develop training materials and lead CI capability-building programs across the facility.
• Promote a hands-on, floor-focused presence to drive daily engagement and sustainment of improvements.
• Support digital transformation initiatives (e.g., real-time data collection, MES, Industry 4.0) where applicable.

Benefits

• A culture that values innovation, teamwork, and transparency.
• Opportunity to directly impact the future of manufacturing at a leading facility.
• Growth and development in a company that invests in CI as a core strategy.
• Competitive compensation, benefits, and bonus structure.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees