Continuous Improvement Engineer

Bluewater Hayes Inc.; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits

Long-term growth opportunities

Job summary

A technology-driven manufacturing firm is seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer to drive operational excellence through Lean principles. The role requires leading continuous improvement initiatives, conducting time studies, and designing ergonomic solutions. The ideal candidate has 3-5 years of experience in manufacturing, a degree in an engineering field, and is passionate about safety and sustainable improvement. This position offers competitive compensation and opportunities for growth within the organization.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Proven success leading Kaizen events and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
• Experience working cross-functionally and influencing stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean methodologies.
• Conduct time studies and capacity analysis to improve throughput.
• Design ergonomic material handling solutions and optimized layouts.
• Collect and analyze shop-floor data for actionable improvement plans.
• Monitor and improve KPIs such as OEE and safety metrics.

Skills

Lean tools expertise

Analytical skills

Cross-functional collaboration

Leadership capability

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks

Minitab

Power BI

Job description

We are partnering with a well-established, technology-driven manufacturing organization to identify an Continuous Improvement Engineer with a strong continuous improvement mindset. This role focuses on driving operational excellence across manufacturing processes using lean principles, data-driven analysis, and hands‑on leadership on the shop floor.

The ideal candidate is passionate about safety, waste reduction, and sustainable improvement—and is comfortable rolling up their sleeves to support projects across shifts when needed.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead and facilitate continuous improvement initiatives using Lean methodologies (Kaizen, 5S, SMED, VSM, TPM, waste reduction)
• Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, value stream mapping, cycle time analysis, and line balancing to improve throughput
• Support and sustain Daily Management Systems, including Tier board development, coaching, and upkeep
• Design and implement ergonomic material handling solutions, optimized layouts, and efficient workstations
• Collect and analyze shop-floor data; translate findings into actionable improvement plans
• Develop and maintain standard work, SOPs, visual controls, and CI documentation
• Monitor and improve KPIs such as OEE, lead time, changeover time, inventory, and safety metrics
• Perform root cause analysis and lead corrective actions using data-driven approaches
• Partner cross-functionally with operations, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams
• Champion a Lean culture through mentoring, coaching, training sessions, and audits
• Propose and support capital investments tied to CI, automation, and technology improvements
• Maintain a strong focus on safety, supporting behavior-based safety initiatives and compliance
• Create AutoCAD layout scenarios for process improvements and facility projects
• Provide flexible support for off-shift or time-sensitive projects when required

What We’re Looking For

Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or related field

Experience

• 3–5+ years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment
• Proven success leading Kaizen events and implementing CI initiatives
• Experience working cross-functionally and influencing at multiple organizational levels

Technical Skills

• Strong expertise in Lean tools (VSM, 5S, Kaizen, SMED, TPM, PDCA, one-piece flow)
• Solid analytical skills (time studies, root cause analysis, Excel-based data analysis; Minitab or Power BI a plus)
• Experience with CAD tools (AutoCAD, SolidWorks)
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems and manufacturing data environments
• Knowledge of ergonomic design, layout optimization, and automation concepts

Preferred

• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt)
• Background in metal fabrication, welding, laser cutting, or low-volume/high-mix manufacturing
• Experience with SAP, MS Project, MES, or automation project coordination

Why This Role Is Attractive

• Highly visible CI role with real ownership and measurable impact
• Opportunity to shape lean culture and daily management systems
• Hands‑on environment with strong leadership engagement
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
• Long-term growth opportunities within manufacturing and operational leadership

Interested?

This search is being conducted by Bluewater Hayes, an executive search firm specializing in manufacturing, engineering, and operations talent. Qualified candidates will receive full details about the organization during the interview process.