Continuous Improvement Specialist

Nature's Bakery • Hazelwood, MO

8d

About The Position

As a Continuous Improvement (CI) Specialist, you’ll play a key role in driving operational excellence across our bakery. You’ll lead loss elimination efforts, coach teams on problem-solving, and help shape how we continuously improve our processes and systems. You’ll partner closely with line leaders and operators to strengthen daily management systems, ensure data integrity, and support a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Requirements

• Strong mechanical/technical aptitude with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and comfort working with data systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to connect with and motivate people at all levels of the organization.

Nice To Haves

• Certified Trainer or demonstrated ability to effectively train and coach others.
• Experience facilitating process improvement initiatives and using Focused Improvement tools.
• Proven ability to provide constructive feedback and guide performance improvement.
• BA Degree (ENG, Supply Chain, Business, or technical field) or Associate's Degree with at least 2 years' experience in a TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) manufacturing environment

Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate loss elimination initiatives across your assigned Value Stream.
• Support the development and execution of Daily Management Systems (DMS), including Centerline (CL), Clean-Inspect-Lubricate (CIL), Abnormality Handling (AH), 5S, and Changeover systems.
• Analyze line data to identify and prioritize loss elimination opportunities.
• Drive root cause problem-solving on chronic issues, using both basic and advanced tools.
• Partner with production and technical teams to define process standards, establish control strategies, and enable teams to respond to out-of-control situations.
• Facilitate team meetings and NBOS CP2 sessions; communicate clearly across shifts and functions.
• Collaborate with line leaders to ensure all departmental metrics (safety, quality, efficiency) are achieved.
• Train and coach associates to build technical mastery and problem-solving capabilities.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and teamwork through proactive engagement and accountability.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance offered for eligible employees
• 401(k) plan with a company match that vest on day 1 of eligibility
• Paid vacation
• Paid time off
• Holiday pay (11 days)
• Paid short-term disability
• Paid life insurance
• Banfield Pet Insurance Discounts
• Wellness Benefits and Discounts
• Employee Assistance Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees