Focused Improvement Specialist
Core
Drive structured loss elimination and sustainable performance improvement across the manufacturing site by identifying operational losses, solving root causes, and implementing practical improvements to reduce waste, improve quality, and increase throughput.
Role type
Manufacturing continuous improvement specialist
Builds
Operational efficiency and quality performance in manufacturing environments
Domain
Manufacturing operations and continuous improvement
Required skills
structured problem-solving (RCA, DMAIC, 5 Why, fishbone, A3), data analysis, manufacturing KPIs (waste, scrap, downtime, throughput, efficiency), cross-functional collaboration, floor observation, project management
Preferred skills
regulated manufacturing experience (food, beverage, pharma, automotive), Six Sigma/Lean/TPM certifications, value stream mapping, daily management systems
Technologies
RCA, DMAIC, 5 Why, fishbone, A3, Pareto analysis, value stream mapping, SPC, production reporting systems
Responsibilities
Lead focused improvement initiatives to reduce waste, quality losses, and downtime; Use structured problem-solving tools to identify and eliminate root causes; Partner with Operations, Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance teams to convert losses into action plans; Analyze production data and operational KPIs to identify recurring issues; Facilitate cross-functional problem-solving sessions and track actions to completion; Work directly with line teams to validate problems at the source and build ownership; Coach associates and leaders on problem-solving methods; Spend significant time on the manufacturing floor observing processes and confirming countermeasure effectiveness.
Seniority
Mid-level, hands-on IC