Continous Improvement Specialist

Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.; Santa Ana (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Dairy Farmers of America, Inc. is seeking a continuous improvement professional to lead efficiency initiatives across manufacturing operations in Santa Ana, CA.

You will work with plant leaders to identify opportunities, implement process improvements, and train teams in CI principles to deliver safety, quality and cost reductions. The role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, data-driven problem solving, and ongoing development of employees through structured training and coaching in lean

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; field in business, engineering, or related area.
• 2–5 years in process improvement or manufacturing operations.
• Experience with CI methodologies and project leadership.

Responsibilities

• Identify, prioritize, and drive CI projects to improve safety, quality, delivery and cost.
• Analyze data, track performance, and report improvements.
• Develop and deliver training on CI concepts to staff.
• Collaborate with functional leaders and SMEs on cross-functional teams.
• Support plant operations and maintenance with process solutions.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Root cause analysis

Data interpretation

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Problem solving

Communication skills

Multi-tasking

English proficiency

Education

Bachelors degree (business/engineering/related)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Project management software

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 though 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)