Job Opportunities API

The CI Manager will optimize operational efficiency by analyzing processes, eliminating waste, and implementing Lean methodologies.  They will lead cross-functional teams, facilitate Kaizen events, provide Lean training, and identify key metrics to drive cost reductions and sustainable improvements at our Lytton Iowa facility. JOB QUALIFICATIONS: Education • Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Business, Operations, or related field and experience. Experience • 5 years’ proven experience in manufacturing or operations with a focus on continuous improvement and Lean principles. • 5 years' related experience to CI and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. • Strong knowledge of Lean processes and methodologies within a manufacturing environment. • Experience with Value Stream Mapping, Facilitating Kaizen events and knowledge of lean tools and process such as: Continuous flow, set up reduction, pull systems, TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) and 5S practices. JOB DUTIES: • Heavily involved with projects, processes and performance reports, data, and analysis. • Works in partnership with local plant leadership and plant improvement teams, to identify and implement Lean principles to improve Quality, Cost, Safety, Delivery, and Morale. • Organizes and leads CI meetings with plant team and peers. • Review/ measure progress on improvement at scheduled monthly review meetings. • Lead facilitator of plant improvement teams. • Identify inefficiencies, analyze workflows, and implement improvements to boost productivity. • Lead Lean, Kaizen, 5 S and Six Sigma projects to reduce waste and improve efficiency. • Collect and interpret performance data to identify opportunities, track metrics, and report on project status. • Mentor and provide training on CI techniques, new procedures, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. • Partners with departments to align improvement initiatives with company and plant goals. • Conduct activities to reduce cost and improve operational efficiencies. • Increase product quality and reliability by utilizing plant cadence and CI principles. • Drive culture changes toward proactive problem solving by utilizing Lean activities. • Provide education and mentoring on Lean processes and principles. • Ensure Open communication throughout the plant by keeping management updated on Project status and ensuring coordination of Lean activities. • Manage the development and maintenance of methods and systems for measuring to ensure that project goals, objectives and metrics are being met and maintained. • Create metrics, goals, and objectives to drive accountability throughout the manufacturing facility. • Lead the implementation of Lean programs from inception to completion. • Manage the planning, facilitation and completion of Lean projects to support cost reduction objectives. • Evaluate the performance or ability of employees to understand and apply lean principles. • Monitor activity level of CI teams and inform management of additional support needed to achieve desired results. • Model operational excellence and visibly demonstrate leadership/change management behaviors. • Utilize visual management tools to drive employee empowerment and engagement. COMPETENCIES : • Analytical - Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs workflows and procedures. • Design - Generates creative solutions; Translates concepts and information into images; Uses feedback to modify designs; Applies design principles; Demonstrates attention to detail. • Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics. • Project Management - Develops project plans; Coordinates projects; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time and budget; Manages project team activities. • Technical Skills - Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others. • Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Listens to others without interrupting; Keeps emotions under control; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things. • Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations, Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills. • Participate in meetings. • Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar. Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information. • Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed. • Visionary Leadership - Displays passion and optimism; Inspires respect and trust; Mobilizes others to fulfill the vision; Provides vision and inspiration to peers and subordinates. • Change Management - Develops workable implementation plans; Communicates changes • effectively, builds commitment and overcomes resistance; Prepares and supports those affected by change; Monitors transition and evaluate results. • Delegation - Delegates work assignments. • Leadership - Exhibits confidence in self and others; Inspires and motivates. JOB REQUIREMENTS: • Strong analytical, communication, problem-solving and CI management skills. • Enthusiastic about CI with the ability to inspire and motivate others. • Lean Experience required and fully versed in TQM techniques. • Demonstrate ability to coach individually or in small groups, manage projects and apply conflict management skills. • Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills. • Strong multi-tasking capabilities, able to prioritize and manage different projects • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to apply them. • Black Belt or Green Belt training preferred and/or equivalent experience.