Continuous Improvement Specialist

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

Job summary

Stafffinders in Scotland is seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist to join our Manufacturing client in South Ayrshire on a permanent basis. You will lead process improvement projects, map value streams, and drive cost savings while embedding a culture of continuous improvement across the Operations team.

You will conduct root cause analyses, collect data, and implement practical changes, tooling upgrades and training to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or HND in Engineering, Manufacturing or a related discipline.
• Formal training in Lean manufacturing, Kaizen, or Six Sigma.
• Proven experience as Lean/Process Engineer or Continuous Improvement Specialist.
• Track record of delivering CI initiatives in engineering/manufacturing.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and data-driven mindset.
• Excellent communication and leadership to influence cross-functional teams.
• Experience in high‑volume, high‑SKU environments is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead process improvement projects, workshops and training across the Operations Team.
• Conduct root cause analysis, collect data and map processes to identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Design, install and troubleshoot tooling and capital equipment to boost performance.
• Use value stream mapping to guide transition to more efficient ways of working.
• Perform regular compliance audits and performance monitoring to sustain gains.

Skills

Process improvement

Lean principles

Root cause analysis

Value stream mapping

Data analysis

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering / Manufacturing

HND in Engineering / Manufacturing

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

You will bring a strong background in engineering or manufacturing, with proven experience driving continuous improvement and implementing positive change within a fast‑paced environment. The ideal person will have:

• 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.