CI Specialist

Adient; Northwood (IA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Adient in Northwood, IA is seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist to lead CI projects across safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity. You will analyze processes, facilitate 5S/Kaizen/value stream mapping, and mentor teams in problem-solving techniques.

Responsibilities include developing KPIs, root cause analysis, SOP development, and ensuring timely project completion while collaborating with cross-functional teams on cost reduction and efficiency efforts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related field preferred.
• 2–5 years experience in manufacturing or continuous improvement roles.
• Lean Manufacturing knowledge and problem-solving methodologies.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement projects improving safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity.
• Analyze processes to identify bottlenecks and waste.
• Facilitate 5S, Kaizen events, value stream mapping, and standardized work.
• Support root cause analysis using 5 Why, Fishbone, Pareto.
• Develop and track KPIs for operational performance.
• Train and mentor staff in CI and problem solving.
• Prepare detailed project plans and ensure timely completion.

Skills

Process Improvement

Data Analysis

Project Management

Leadership

Change Management

Time Management

Continuous Improvement

Attention to Detail

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Key Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement projects focused on safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity.
• Analyze manufacturing processes to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and waste.
• Facilitate Lean Manufacturing initiatives including 5S, Kaizen events, value stream mapping, standardized work, and visual management.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective action activities using tools such as 5 Why, Fishbone Diagram, and Pareto Analysis.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, engineering, quality, and supply chain teams to implement sustainable process improvements.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to operational performance.
• Train and mentor employees on continuous improvement principles and problem-solving techniques.
• Report on progress and manage the improvement tracking system.
• Assist in developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and process documentation.
• Prepare detailed plans to track project performance and assure timely completion of goals.
• Participate in audits, compliance activities, and plant improvement initiatives.
• Support cost reduction and efficiency improvement efforts across the facility.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Technology, or related field preferred.
• 2–5 years of experience in manufacturing, operations, or continuous improvement roles.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and other problem-solving methodologies.
• Experience with Kaizen, 5S, value stream mapping, and root cause analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrate effective leadership, interpersonal skills, and the ability to influence without authority.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Process Improvement
• Data Analysis
• Project Management
• Leadership & Facilitation
• Change Management
• Time Management
• Continuous Improvement Mindset
• Challenge the Status Quo
• Attention to Detail

Work Environment

• Manufacturing plant environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and varying temperatures.
• Ability to walk the production floor regularly.
• May require occasional overtime or flexible scheduling to support production operations.

PRIMARY LOCATION

Northwood Facility