Continuous Improvement Engineer

SixAxis, LLC; Andrews (SC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

SixAxis, LLC in Andrews, SC is seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer to lead cross-functional projects aimed at increasing process efficiency, productivity, and quality. You will analyze production data, perform root-cause analysis, apply Lean tools (5S, Kaizen, VSM, TPM), develop KPIs, and drive ROI-focused improvements while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

Experience with ERP/MES and manufacturing data analytics is preferred; a Bachelor’s in Industrial/Manufacturing/Mechanical

Qualifications

• Lean and continuous-improvement knowledge required.
• Experience applying problem-solving methods like 5 Why, FMEA, and Kaizen.
• Ability to develop and track KPIs and ROI for projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement projects focused on process efficiency, productivity, quality, cost reduction, and waste elimination.
• Analyze production data, downtime, scrap, labor, cycle times, and other metrics to identify opportunities.
• Implement Lean tools including 5S, Kaizen, Standard Work, VSM, Visual Management, SMED, and TPM.
• Develop and track project KPIs to measure results and sustainability.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance to improve OEE and reliability.
• Develop standard work, process documentation, and control plans.
• Lead cross-functional Kaizen events and ROI analyses.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Continuous Improvement

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Project management

Communication skills

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Manufacturing/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Excel

Job description

The Continuous Improvement Engineer works cross-functionally with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, and other departments to identify root causes, develop solutions, and ensure improvements are sustained over time.

This position is on-site and located at our Andrews, SC facility.

About the Role

Key Responsibilities Lead continuous improvement projects focused on process efficiency, productivity, quality, cost reduction, and waste elimination.

Responsibilities

• Analyze production data, downtime, scrap, labor, cycle times, and other operational metrics to identify improvement opportunities.
• Conduct root-cause analysis using 5 Why, Fishbone, Pareto, FMEA, and other problem-solving methodologies.
• Implement Lean Manufacturing tools including 5S, Kaizen, Standard Work, Value Stream Mapping, Visual Management, SMED, and TPM.
• Develop and track project KPIs to measure improvement results and ensure long-term sustainability.
• Partner with operations and maintenance teams to improve equipment reliability, uptime, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Optimize manufacturing layouts, material flow, workstations, staffing, and production processes.
• Develop and maintain standard work, process documentation, work instructions, and process control plans.
• Identify opportunities for automation, ergonomic improvements, labor optimization, and material waste reduction.
• Lead Kaizen events and facilitate cross-functional improvement teams.
• Develop business cases and calculate ROI, cost savings, labor savings, and payback for improvement projects.
• Support new equipment, tooling, product launches, and process changes.
• Collaborate with Quality to reduce defects, rework, scrap, and customer complaints.
• Train employees and supervisors on Lean principles, problem-solving techniques, and standardized processes.
• Ensure improvement projects meet company safety, quality, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Report on project status, results, risks, and recommendations to management.
• Establish controls and follow-up activities to ensure improvements remain effective.
• Engage fully in plant safety protocols and environmental compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.

Required Skills

• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to analyze data and convert findings into practical engineering solutions.
• Strong project-management and organizational skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while coordinating with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Skills

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
• Experience with OEE, SPC, FMEA, Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen, 5S, SMED, and TPM.
• Experience with manufacturing automation, robotics, or process controls.
• Experience with ERP/MES systems and manufacturing data analytics.
• CAD experience and knowledge of manufacturing layouts.
• Experience developing capital-investment proposals and ROI analyses.
• Previous experience leading cross-functional improvement projects.

Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled