Continuous Improvement Specialist

Stafffinders; Irvine; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Stafffinders in Scotland is seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist to drive Lean projects within a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

You will lead root cause analyses, map processes, and deploy Kaizen and Six Sigma initiatives to cut costs and boost customer satisfaction.

The role requires a degree in engineering or a related discipline and proven experience in high-volume manufacturing, with strong leadership and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or HND in Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality or a related discipline.
• Formal training in Lean manufacturing principles, Kaizen or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Proven experience as a Lean Specialist, Process Engineer, Continuous Improvement Specialist or in a similar role.
• Experience implementing continuous improvement initiatives and change management programmes within an engineering or manufacturing environment.
• Experience in high-volume, high-SKU manufacturing environments would be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduce root cause analyses, collects and analyses data to map processes and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Lead process improvement projects, workshops and training initiatives to embed a culture of continuous improvement.
• Design, install and troubleshoot tooling and capital equipment to improve operational performance.
• Use value stream mapping to identify opportunities for improvement and guide transitions to more efficient ways of working.
• Conduct regular compliance audits and performance monitoring to ensure sustainable improvements.

Skills

Lean manufacturing principles

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Data analysis

Root cause analysis

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree or HND in Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality or related discipline

Job description

Are you an experienced Process Improvement Engineer or Lean Specialist looking for an opportunity to make a real impact within a fast-paced manufacturing environment?

We have an exciting opportunity for a Continuous Improvement Specialist to join a leading manufacturing business in South Ayrshire on a permanent basis. As a key member of the Operations Team, you will play an important role in driving operational improvements, streamlining manufacturing processes and identifying opportunities to increase efficiency, reduce costs and enhance customer satisfaction.

This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive, solutions-focused professional who thrives on solving challenges, implementing positive change and making a lasting difference to business performance.

Responsibilities in your new role as Continuous Improvement Specialist

As a key member of the Operations Team, you will play an important role in improving manufacturing and operational processes, driving efficiency, reducing costs and enhancing customer satisfaction. You will lead process improvement projects, workshops and training initiatives, helping to embed a culture of continuous improvement across the business.

Your day-to-day responsibilities will include conducting root cause analysis, collecting and analysing data, mapping processes and identifying cost-saving opportunities. You will also be involved in designing, installing and troubleshooting tooling and capital equipment to improve operational performance.

Additionally, you will use value stream mapping to identify opportunities for improvement and guide the transition from current processes to more efficient ways of working. Through regular compliance audits and performance monitoring, you will help ensure improvements are sustainable and deliver long-term results.

Your personality, experience and qualifications

• A Bachelor's Degree or HND in Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality or a related discipline.
• Formal training in Lean manufacturing principles, Kaizen or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Proven experience as a Lean Specialist, Process Engineer, Continuous Improvement Specialist or in a similar role.
• A successful track record of implementing continuous improvement initiatives and change management programmes within an engineering or manufacturing environment.
• Experience working in high-volume, high-SKU manufacturing environments would be advantageous.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify inefficiencies and implement practical solutions.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the confidence to influence and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A professional and discreet approach when handling sensitive or confidential information.
• Flexibility to work shifts as required by the business.