Manager - Continuous Improvement - NL Continuous Improvement

KDC One • Manitowoc, WI

1d

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. The role uses data analysis, Lean methodologies, employee development, and cross-functional collaboration across departments and shifts to drive sustainable improvements aligned with business objectives and applicable requirements.

The manager leads the Continuous Improvement steering committee, supports annual financial and employee development goals, and creates and maintains the operational continuous improvement roadmap. The position also delivers tailored CI training, facilitates improvement events, and serves as a subject matter expert in CI methodology, tools, and daily process controls.

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

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.
• Minimum of 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.
• Travel of 25–30% is required.

Nice To Haves

• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or another relevant Lean certification.
• Experience in consumer products, chemical processing, blending, filling, or packaging operations.
• Familiarity with 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 decision-making and measurable improvements, and to drive behavioral change through CI methods 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, building and leading focused teams to address 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 continuous improvement roadmap for the operation.
• 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