Continuous improvement technician - Oswestry

ARLA; Oswestry; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading dairy company in Oswestry seeks a CI Technician responsible for operational standards and reducing downtime. You will coach operators, enhance production efficiency, and participate in CI improvement activities. Candidates should have manufacturing experience and knowledge of Lean methodologies. This competitive role offers the chance to work with a market leader committed to sustainability.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Benefits

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of TPM, reliability, and process improvement is desirable.
• Experience with Lean/Six Sigma/KAIZEN or similar methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.
• Lead CI meetings using structured problem-solving tools.
• Maintain cost-efficient and stable production processes.

Skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Lean methodologies

Team collaboration

Job description

As a CI Technician (known internally at Arla as an LCO Area Technician), you will be responsible for delivering operational standards within your area, reducing unplanned downtime, and increasing line efficiency through systematic CI work. The Area Technician will also enable and coach Operators on technical standards.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Ensure departmental compliance with Arla's standards in Food Safety, H&S, and Environment. Lead weekly CI meetings related to unplanned stops and top losses using structured LEAN problem-solving tools and PDCA.
2. Collaborate with teams on CI improvement activities, quantify benefits, and track data, including deviations and preventative maintenance.
3. Own Operator Asset Care standards and develop team competencies.
4. Define, confirm, and improve operational standards within the area. Train and coach line teams to meet these standards.
5. Maintain cost-efficient and stable production processes, focusing on SIC and KPIs. Participate in Daily Direction Setting meetings to drive performance.
6. Support project implementation, technology, and process upgrades. Build strong relationships with internal and external functions.

The core team receives support from site functions including Planning, Maintenance & Engineering, QEHS, and Operational Support for daily operations and improvements.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in a manufacturing environment
• Knowledge of TPM, reliability, and process improvement is desirable
• Experience with Lean/Six Sigma/KAIZEN or similar methodologies
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• High enthusiasm and a positive attitude towards change and problem-solving

Arla is a global leader in the dairy industry, committed to high-quality products, sustainability, and innovation. We are passionate about people and the planet, aiming to make healthy dairy nutrition accessible to all. Join Arla Foods and be part of a cooperative dedicated to sustainability and industry leadership.

We offer a competitive salary, benefits, and the chance to work with a market-leading company. Our Oswestry site spans 8 acres, producing and packaging 350 products, and we #feedthenation, delivering 99.8% of customer orders on time.