Specialist, Value Optimization & Continuous Improvement

Oatey Company • Cleveland, OH

19h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Value Optimization & Continuous Improvement Specialist plays a dual role; both analytical and implementation focused. This position identifies cost savings opportunities through data analysis and structured problem solving and coordinates cross-functional execution to deliver measurable results. The specialist will support the Value Optimization Office in building the cost reduction pipeline, validating opportunities, facilitating improvement events, and ensuring savings are realized and sustained.

Requirements

• 3–6 years of experience in operations, engineering, supply chain, finance/analytics, continuous improvement, or value engineering
• Experience participating and/or leading CI/Lean/Six Sigma initiatives, kaizens, or cross-functional projects
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, interpret trends, and translate findings into business actions
• Advanced skillset in Excel or other Analytical tools such as PowerBI, SQL, or similar
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with strong organizational skills
• Strong communication skills
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems (SAP Preferred)
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Operations, Business, Supply Chain, Finance, or related field or relevant equivalent experience in lieu of degree

Nice To Haves

• Certifications such as Lean, Six Sigma, or PMP are preferred but not required
• Lean Six Sigma Green or Black belt strongly preferred

Responsibilities

• Project Execution and Facilitation: Manage project timelines, documentation, and progress reporting in order to maintain clear visibility, accountability, and momentum throughout each initiative.
• Lead or support kaizen events, structured problem-solving workshops, and process improvement activities
• Collaborate across Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Procurement, and Quality to execute value optimization initiatives to drive alignment, remove cross‑functional barriers, and accelerate delivery of measurable results.
• Opportunity Identification and Analysis Analyze product cost structures, operational data, and performance metrics to identify cost-saving and efficiency opportunities
• Conduct financial modeling, cost-benefit analyses, and should-cost evaluations to support project prioritization and to ensure resources are directed towards the highest impact opportunities.
• Apply Lean/Six Sigma tools to identify waste, bottlenecks, variability, and defects to enhance process stability and improve cost competitiveness.
• Develop dashboards, scorecards, and data visualization to track opportunity pipelines and project impact
• Savings Validation and Quality Partner with Finance to validate cost savings, conduct variance reviews, and track benefit realization
• Ensure implemented solutions comply with quality, safety, and regulatory expectations to maintain operational integrity and prevent unintended downstream impacts
• Change Management Promote standardization, continuous improvement of culture, and disciplined project management across the enterprise in order to reinforce consistent behaviors and support long term sustainability of improvements
• Train and coach cross-functional partners on basic Lean tools and structured problem-solving
• Other Some travel required to support initiatives and properly manage and evaluate project opportunities

Benefits

• Generous paid time off programs and paid company holidays to support flexibility and work-life balance
• Annual Discretionary Cash Profit Sharing
• Immediate eligibility and vesting in 401(k), including 100% company match, up to 5% of eligible compensation
• Market leading health insurance including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance offerings for associates and qualified dependents
• Significant company contribution to Health Savings Account with a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP)
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability income protection coverage at no cost to associates
• Paid Maternity and Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• A strong set of complementary resources to support associate well-being, including resource groups, EAP, and dedicated mental health support.

What This Job Offers

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