Continuous Improvement Coordinator

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation; South Bend (IN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) matching

Paid time off

Company outings

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

IFT Worldwide is seeking a Continuous Improvement Coordinator to drive efficiency and lean initiatives across manufacturing operations. The role emphasizes data-driven problem solving, kaizen events, and sustained improvements under the Director of Engineering and Continuous Improvement.

The ideal candidate will have a background in mechanical/manufacturing/industrial engineering with 5+ years in continuous improvement and hands-on experience in Lean, Six Sigma, and ERP systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years in industrial/process/continuous improvement roles.
• Strong Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, Kanban, and 5S knowledge.
• Proficient in MS Office; data-analytics tools a plus.
• Epicor or similar ERP experience is a plus.
• Self-starter who can manage multiple priorities under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Provide process engineering support for development, changes, and improvements to manufacturing operations.
• Drive process improvements through data collection, time studies, and data analysis.
• Apply Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and problem-solving methods to resolve issues.
• Engineer in-house and subcontractor tool/design changes and repairs.
• Diagnose and address repetitive equipment failures and implement solutions.
• Collaborate with operations, quality, maintenance, and supply chain to implement sustainable improvements.
• Lead Kaizen events, value stream mapping, and 5S initiatives.

Skills

Lean

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Kanban

5S

Data analysis

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering

Tools

Epicor ERP

Job description

• Base Pay $75,000.00 - $95,000.00 / Year
• Job Category Full Time
• Employee Type Regular Full Time

We are looking for a Continuous Improvement Coordinator who can help drive efficiency, reduce waste, and support operational excellence across our organization. We welcome applications from experienced professionals as well as recent graduates who are excited to begin a career focused on process improvement, lean principles, and manufacturing operations. Candidates who demonstrate strong analytical skills, a continuous improvement mindset, and a desire to learn and grow within a manufacturing environment are encouraged to apply.

About Us

IFT Worldwide is a leading metal finishing company dedicated to delivering high-quality solutions to our clients. The IFT Worldwide brand is globally acknowledged as the KnowledgeSource™ for Metal Finishing. We take pride in our commitment to excellence, innovation, and a positive workplace culture.

Job Overview

Responsible for providing process engineering support and driving operational excellence across manufacturing operations. This role applies industrial engineering, Lean, and Continuous Improvement principles to improve safety, quality, delivery, cost, and overall equipment and process performance. Reports to the Director of Engineering and Continuous Improvement

Responsibilities

• Provide process engineering support for development, changes, and improvements to manufacturing operations.
• Drive process improvements through data collection, time studies, and data analysis.
• Apply Lean, Six Sigma, and formal problem-solving methodologies (DMAIC, A3, root cause analysis) to resolve equipment and process issues.
• Engineer in-house and subcontractor solutions for tooling, machine design changes, improvements, and repairs.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and implement engineering solutions for repetitive equipment failures.
• Identify and respond effectively to unforeseen technical and operational problems.
• Ensure all engineering solutions meet safety, quality, cost, and timeline requirements.
• Evaluate risks, make sound engineering decisions, and act with a strong sense of urgency.
• Take ownership of assigned projects from planning through implementation and sustainment.
• Lead and participate in Kaizen events, value stream mapping, and 5S initiatives.
• Develop and maintain standard work, labor standards, and engineering procedures.
• Manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Collaborate with operations, quality, maintenance, and supply chain teams to implement sustainable improvements.
• Support equipment purchase, installation, startup, and repair activities.
• Demonstrate independent decision-making and accountability for results.
• Responsible for maintaining a clean, organized work area, and the quality department area generally, in accordance with company programs, policies, and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 5+ years of experience in an industrial engineering, process engineering, or continuous improvement role.
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, Kanban, and 5S methodologies.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with data analysis tools preferred.
• Experience with Epicor or similar ERP systems is a plus.
• Knowledge of industrial equipment selection, installation, troubleshooting, and repair.
• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and teamwork abilities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Travel

Local and overnight travel may be required occasionally

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• HDHP Plans with Company contribution to H.S.A.
• Flexible spending accounts for Medical and Dependent Care
• Company paid life insurance with AD&D
• Company paid short-term disability insurance
• Voluntary life with AD&D for employee, spouse, and child(ren)
• Voluntary long-term disability insurance
• Supplemental Accident and Critical Illness plans
• 401(k) matching program
• Flexible schedules, generous paid time off, plus 8 paid holidays
• Company outings
• Employee Assistance Program

Disclaimer: This job description is not a complete description of responsibility, but reflects the general qualifications, duties and/or responsibilities necessary to perform this position. All candidates who receive a written offer of employment will be required to successfully pass a background check and drug screen. Imagineering Finishing Technologies reserves the right to revise the job description as necessary.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement: IFT Worldwide is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other category protected by law.

Attention Applicants: If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, please let us know. Likewise, if you are limited in the ability to access or use this online application process and need alternative methods of applying, we will determine an alternate way for you to apply. Please contact our People team at [e-mail] or call 800-207-2516 for assistance with an accommodation.