Manager - Continuous Improvement - NL Continuous Improvement

kdc/one • Manitowoc, WI

2d

About The Position

The Continuous Improvement Manager leads sitewide initiatives at KDC/One Northern Labs to reduce operational losses and improve safety, quality, productivity, and cost. Through data analysis, Lean methodologies, employee development, and collaboration across departments and shifts, the role drives sustainable improvements aligned with business objectives and applicable requirements.

The position serves as a subject matter expert in Continuous Improvement methodology and tools, leads the CI steering committee, develops and maintains the operation’s CI roadmap, and provides training and coaching to build organizational capability. The role also facilitates focused improvement events and supports implementation of daily process controls.

Work takes place in office and manufacturing environments. The position involves observing production processes, interacting with employees across shifts, facilitating training, and supporting improvement activities. Travel is 25–30%. Exposure to chemicals and work near moving mechanical parts each occur one-third or more of the time. PPE is required for specific jobs and whenever specified.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Industrial Technology, Business, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of relevant education, training, and manufacturing experience.
• At least 5 years of manufacturing, operations, or Continuous Improvement experience, including leadership of improvement projects.
• Demonstrated application of Lean methods, structured root-cause analysis, and operational data analysis to achieve measurable improvements.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, operational costs, and the financial impact of improvement initiatives.
• Practical knowledge of Lean methods, including 5S, value stream mapping, visual management, standard work, and waste reduction.
• Proficiency in structured problem-solving and root-cause analysis using tools such as 5 Whys, fishbone diagrams, and A3.
• Ability to analyze operational data, recognize process variation, and develop practical recommendations.
• Understanding of manufacturing workflow, line balancing, capacity, equipment reliability, and operational losses.
• Working knowledge of operational costs and the financial impact of improvement projects.
• Ability to prepare clear procedures, project reports, performance measures, and presentations.
• Proficiency with spreadsheet analysis, presentations, and operational reporting tools.
• Ability to prioritize competing needs, resolve issues collaboratively, and follow through on agreed actions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with employees and leaders across shifts.
• Ability to use a computer, participate in meetings and training, access manufacturing areas, observe production processes, and support improvement activities.
• Ability to travel 25–30%.

Nice To Haves

• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or another relevant Lean certification.
• Experience in consumer products, chemical processing, blending, filling, or packaging operations.
• Knowledge of cGMP, ISO 9001, BRCGS, or similar quality systems.
• Familiarity with Total Productive Maintenance, statistical process control, and failure mode and effects analysis.
• Previous supervisory experience.

Responsibilities

• Use Lean, Six Sigma techniques, and Continuous Improvement tools to promote data-based decisions and measurable improvement, while driving behavioral change through methodology and coaching.
• Deliver Continuous Improvement training courses and programs, including Lean and belt training, tailored to organizational needs and priorities.
• Co-facilitate Kaizen and 90-Day Improvement events and lead focused, empowered teams addressing systemic problems.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for CI methodology, CI tools, and implementation of daily process controls.
• Lead the Continuous Improvement steering committee in support of annual financial and employee development goals.
• Create and maintain the operation’s Continuous Improvement roadmap.
• Assist with coordinating logistics and materials for CI training and improvement events.
• Maintain CI resource materials and shared project files.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

What This Job Offers

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