Continuous Improvement Process Specialist

Deringer Ney•Bloomfield, CT

8h•Onsite

About The Position

This role works closely with the company Top Management to facilitate and support change that improves the Operating System at Deringer-Ney Inc. (DNI), our “DNIOS.” As a Continuous Improvement Process (CIP) Team member, you will support continuous improvement and cultural alignment within DNI. The CIP Team will train fellow team members including new employees, facilitate Practical Problem Solving, manage the Improvement system, coach colleagues in 5S methodologies, and work in support of the Balanced Scorecard development and achievement.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Must have computer proficiency (Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, and demonstrated ability to learn internal business systems)
English writing skills are required
Strong written and verbal English communication skills, with the ability to coach and train peers at all levels
Demonstrated problem-solving mindset and willingness to learn structured problem-solving tools (e.g., 5 Whys, fishbone diagrams)
Highly organized and efficient work habits
Continuous improvement mindset with a curiosity to question norms
Ability to develop and deliver training materials
Comfortable working with Top Management to provide input and suggestions in support of organizational change
Ability to walk and stand for extended periods on the production floor
Ability to lift up to 25–35 lbs occasionally
Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and move throughout a manufacturing environment
Comfortable working in a plant setting with exposure to typical manufacturing conditions (noise, machinery, varying temperatures)
Ability to use required personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed
Visual acuity sufficient to review documents, data, and process details

Nice To Haves

Associate or Bachelor’s degree is a plus
Prior manufacturing or production environment experience preferred (2+ years recommended)
Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, 5S, or similar continuous improvement methodologies preferred; formal certification not required (training will be provided)
Willingness to complete internal DNIOS training program and other required coursework to become a certified trainer

Responsibilities

Facilitate Practical Problem Solving (PPS) sessions with cross-functional teams to reinforce the methodology, assist in identifying root causes, and coach the implementation and verification of corrective actions
Ensure that Pilot Hall areas—the first ones to test new DNIOS tools and approaches—remain in good standing
Train new and existing employees on DNIOS principles, tools, and expectations
Coach and mentor colleagues in 5S+1 methodology (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain + Safety) on the shop floor
Manage and maintain the company's Improvement system, including tracking, prioritizing, and following up on submitted ideas
Support development, tracking, and achievement of Balanced Scorecard metrics across departments
Perform regular walks, audits, and assessments of the use of DNIOS tools, and coach those struggling to use the tools successfully
Partner with Top Management and department leads to identify improvement opportunities and drive change initiatives
Document standard work, process maps, and visual management tools
Track and report on continuous improvement metrics within the CIP Team’s scope, and coach other team members on the calculation and tracking of metrics
Develop and improve visual management boards, shift meeting templates, and communication centers on the production floor
Participate in cross-departmental teams to support broader operational initiatives, improvements, and problem solving
Communicate with CIP Team colleagues at other DNI manufacturing locations to share lessons learned and ensure alignment
Assist with data collection and analysis for process improvement projects
Support change management communication and reinforcement across shifts