Continous Improvement Specialist

hygeiadairy; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

hygeiadairy in Santa Ana, CA seeks a Continuous Improvement Specialist to lead and sustain CI initiatives across safety, quality, delivery, and cost reduction. You will partner with plant leaders to identify opportunities and implement robust solutions.

The role requires 2–5 years in process improvement in manufacturing, a bachelor's degree in a related field, and experience with lean methods. Strong data analysis and training skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in business administration, supply chain, mathematics, engineering, or related field.
• 2–5 years in process improvement, CI, operations/production, or related field.
• Project management or leadership experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in identifying and prioritizing projects to improve manufacturing efficiency and margins.
• Develop and implement process solutions supporting safety, quality, and productivity.
• Track performance, prepare reports, and identify improvement opportunities.
• Instill CI culture and train employees on CI principles and tools.
• Maintain knowledge of plant systems and equipment; support cross-functional teams.

Skills

Microsoft Office

Dairy production tech

Project management tools

Lean manufacturing

Data analysis

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Undergraduate degree in business administration, supply chain, mathematics, engineering, or related curriculum

Job description

Create, maintain, and sustain continuous improvement processes, metrics, and tools for managers or departments, supporting key deliverables in the areas of safety, quality, delivery, cost reduction, growth, and innovation. Work with functional leaders and subject matter experts in accomplishing project goals.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in identification, prioritization, and selection of potential projects (including capital projects) to improve manufacturing efficiency and product line contribution margins
• Work with teams to identify problems, analyze information, and develop and implement process solutions that support improvements to safety, food safety and quality programs, plant operations, and maintenance
• Support investigation and implementation of counter measures to any internal and external quality or safety concerns
• Track production performance. Prepare reports and charts for improvement opportunity identification and problem solving
• Instill continuous improvement culture and drive measurable business process improvement
• Assist in the orientation, training, and ongoing development of employees about CI principles, concepts, methodologies and in the use of tools deemed appropriate to ensure timely completion of projects to deliver planned results
• Conduct initial training sessions with new production employees, focusing on product proficiency, safety, quality, and productivity
• Assess employee's potential strengths and areas for improvement or further training
• Conduct periodic skill assessments of new and current employees and report training needs to management
• Maintain thorough knowledge of all plant systems and equipment
• Provide targeted support to other DFA facilities as needed through participation on cross functional teams
• Conduct initial training sessions with new production employees, focusing on product proficiency, safety, quality, and productivity
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required.Other duties may be assigned as required

Education and Experience

• Undergraduate degree in business administration, supply chain, mathematics, engineering, or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of experience and education)
• 2 to 5 years of experience in process improvement, continuous improvement, operations/production, or related experience, preferably in a manufacturing or food manufacturing environment
• Project management or leadership experience preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems
• Knowledge of dairy production technology
• Knowledge of project management tools and techniques
• Knowledge in lean manufacturing principles and understanding of performance improvement tools and methodologies
• Assess employee's potential strengths and areas for improvement or further training
• Conduct periodic skill assessments of new and current employees and report training needs to management
• Skill in root cause analysis techniques
• Able to effectively analyze and interpret data
• Able multi-task and prioritize work activities
• Able to identify problems, proactively take appropriate steps to find solutions, and implement solutions
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Able to think strategically and creatively
• Able to determine direction through ambiguous situations
• Able to handle challenging or conflict situations with tact and professionalism
• Able to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

Local Travel

• No travel required
• 5%-15% (1-3 times per year)
• 15%-25% (1-2 times per quarter)
• 25%-50% (up to 1 week per month)
• 50%-75% (up to 2 weeks per month)
• 75%-100% (3+ weeks per month)

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans