Continuous Improvement Manager - Laurel Plant

Milliken • Laurel, MD

8d • Onsite

About The Position

Milliken & Company is seeking a Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager for its Gainesville, FL plant. This role is responsible for leading the implementation of Lean Six Sigma methods within a single chemical process facility. The CI Manager will drive operational excellence, foster a continuous improvement culture, and achieve measurable business outcomes. This position involves overseeing improvement projects, providing Lean Six Sigma training, and promoting ongoing enhancement, while collaborating with a network of CI professionals across the organization. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, passionate about excellence, and driven to find and implement improvements that benefit the site and the Fine Chemicals division.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum Black Belt Lean Six Sigma Certification; Master Black Belt preferred.
• 5+ years in a chemical process or manufacturing environment, with a proven track record of leading CI initiatives.
• Deep knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and other CI methodologies.
• Strong analytical and numerical skills; proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools.
• Exceptional influencing, coaching, and facilitation skills.
• Ability to communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences.
• Strong stakeholder management and conflict resolution abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience driving organizational change and fostering a CI culture.

Nice To Haves

• Recognized as a high-potential employee with leadership aspirations.
• Experience in regulated environments (e.g., chemical, pharmaceutical, or food industries).
• Advanced problem-solving and root cause analysis skills.
• Collaborative mindset with a passion for developing others.

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and sustainment of Lean Six Sigma initiatives at the site, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and best practices.
• Work with corporate resources to deliver foundational Lean Six Sigma training (e.g., Yellow Belt, Green Belt) to site personnel.
• Identify, prioritize, and manage a portfolio of CI projects, ensuring timely delivery, effective resource allocation, and measurable impact on safety, environmental performance, quality, cost, and productivity.
• Actively run critical CI projects for the site.
• Participate in project teams and coach teams and individuals in Lean Six Sigma tools, problem-solving, and change management.
• Work with managers to develop CI talent within the site.
• Influence and engage stakeholders at the site to drive buy-in, overcome resistance, and embed a culture of continuous improvement.
• Track and report on CI metrics, project outcomes, and overall site performance improvements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level