Continuous Improvement/Change Agent - 1st shift

CFO Trane U.S. Inc.-CFO; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 73,000 - 101,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Wellness programs

401K match 8%

Vacation days & holidays

Volunteer/Parental leave options

Job summary

Trane Technologies is leading Lean transformation in Grand Rapids, MI to boost efficiency and reduce waste across operations. You’ll partner with leaders to drive operational excellence and sustain improvements.

This role emphasizes coaching teams and deploying Lean tools to achieve standardized work and visual management. The position requires hands-on experience in Lean manufacturing, strong communication, and the ability to lead change across diverse groups.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years in Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement.
• Effective communication and presentation skills for diverse audiences.
• Ability to facilitate groups using defined processes.
• Demonstrated leadership to energize inclusive teams.
• Knowledge of Lean principles and tools.
• Associate or bachelor’s in industrial/mechanical/manufacturing engineering or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.

Responsibilities

• Conduct process mapping to assess efficiency of operations.
• Review procedures to identify waste and organize improvement teams.
• Plan and run Rapid Improvement Events to eliminate waste.
• Train line leaders and staff on problem-solving and Lean principles.
• Support adherence to event standard work and follow-up actions.
• Coach employees to adopt Lean and Operational Excellence practices.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Operational excellence

Coaching

Change agent leadership

Education

Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering degree

Equivalent experience considered

Job description

Be a part of our mission! As a world leader in creating comfortable, sustainable, and efficient climate solutions for buildings, homes and transportation, it's our responsibility to put the planet first. For us at Trane Technologies, and through our businesses including Trane® and Thermo King, sustainability is not just how we do business—it is our business. Do you dare to look at the world's challenges and see impactful possibilities? Do you want to contribute to making a better future? If the answer is yes, we invite you to consider joining us in boldly challenging what's possible for a sustainable world. Learn about our benefits designed for you to Thrive at work and at home. We boldly go.

Where is the work: On-Site (5 days) Shift support: Monday - Friday 6:00 am - 2:30 pm onsite

Job Summary

Trane Technologies is seeking a Continuous Improvement / Change Agent in Grand Rapids, MI to help drive our Lean transformation and strengthen a culture of continuous improvement. In this role, you will support the adoption of Lean principles, practices, and tools across operations while partnering with leaders and teams to improve efficiency, eliminate waste, and sustain operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct process mapping to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of current operations.
• Review existing and new procedures and controls to identify waste, develop improvement plans, and organize teams to implement change.
• Plan and execute Rapid Improvement Events and Just Do It’s to eliminate waste and improve productivity.
• Train and coach line leaders and office staff on problem‑solving behaviors and core Lean principles, including flow, on‑demand, zero defects, standardized work, and visual management.
• Support adherence to Rapid Improvement Event standard work by ensuring strong engagement and collaboration during pre‑work, event week, and post‑event follow‑up.
• Foster culture change by training, developing, and coaching employees to adopt Lean behaviors and Operational Excellence practices.
• Collaborate with the Sr. Change Agent, Department Managers, and Supervisors to resolve issues during implementation and maintenance phases.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in Lean manufacturing, operational excellence, or continuous improvement, with demonstrated success training, coaching, and developing others in Lean tools, principles, and methodologies.
• Effective communication and presentation skills with the ability to engage a variety of audiences.
• Ability to facilitate group activities and discussions using a defined process.
• Demonstrated leadership presence with the ability to energize, motivate, and positively influence inclusive teams.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement tools and techniques.
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing engineering or a related field preferred; equivalent education, training, and relevant work experience will be considered in lieu of a formal degree.

Salary and Compensation

Annual Base Salary Range or Hourly Base Pay Range: $72,611.66 - $101,394.99 Compensation Type: Salary Incentive Eligible: No Sales Commission Eligible: No Disclaimer: We strive to provide competitive compensation for this position, tailored to a variety of factors. The actual compensation will depend on elements such as seniority, merit, geographic location, education, experience, travel requirements, and union designation. Our compensation range is generally based on the national average for the country. Additionally, benefits may vary depending on the region, business alignment, union involvement, and employee status.

Benefits

Thrive at work and at home: Benefits kick in on DAY ONE for you and your family, including health insurance and holistic wellness programs that include generous incentives – WE DARE TO CARE! Family building benefits include fertility coverage and adoption/surrogacy assistance. 401K match up to 6%, plus an additional 2% core contribution = up to 8% company contribution. Paid time off includes 15 vacation days, 9 paid holidays, 3 floating holidays, sick leave, and additional options to support volunteer and parental leave. Educational and training opportunities through company programs along with tuition assistance and student debt support. Disclaimer: Benefit offerings may vary depending on Collective Bargaining Agreements and local/state regulations.

Safety Sensitive Role

Yes. The company designates certain roles as Safety Sensitive. Safety Sensitive roles may require that you pass additional drug screening.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, pregnancy, age, marital status, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any legally protected status.

Accommodations

At Trane Technologies, we believe in providing equal access and opportunity for all. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to our candidates and employees who may need assistance with application or recruitment processes due to disability or impairment. To request an accommodation, please contact us at: [e-mail]