Job Description
- A CI Engineer, also known as a Continuous Improvement Engineer, is responsible for identifying and implementing process improvements. This employee will analyze current operations, streamline production, reduce waste, and increase efficiency, aiming to improve the overall quality of products or services while minimizing costs. This employee will design, plan, and direct process improvement projects, including the installation and utilization of process improvement software and reporting.
Salary: $65,000 - $80,000
Job Duties:
- Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) and performance metrics to measure progress and drive continuous improvement.
- Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions to promote consistent practices.
- Support the Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) initiatives to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
- Provide a strong EHS presence in production, maintenance, and material handling areas.
- Review safety issues and incidents, collaborating with plant leadership and employees to develop resolution plans.
- Lead process improvement projects, resolving problems promptly through data analysis and group problem-solving.
- Assess Lean initiatives regularly to measure success and scalability of improvements.
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement through coaching, feedback, and encouragement.
- Partner with leadership to integrate Lean principles into strategic planning and decision-making.
- Research systems and processes, developing analyses and recommendations to optimize efficiency.
- Assist in developing capital projects to enhance efficiency as issues are identified.
- Collaborate with management on project planning, considering business growth, customer specifications, innovation, quality, and safety.
- Manage project budgets to ensure timely and within-budget completion.
- Communicate professionally with staff to share technical knowledge.
- Maintain relationships with vendors and suppliers for material, software, and equipment evaluations.
- Troubleshoot equipment and control systems.
- Ensure compliance with Quality Assurance policies and report potential food safety issues immediately.
- Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES:
- Proficiency in Windows, MS Office Suite, internet/intranet, and organizational software.
- Effective communication skills for internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to plan, initiate, and lead short- and long-term programs.
- Influence others without hierarchical control.
- Strong problem-solving, data documentation, and analytical skills.
- Traits of honesty, integrity, creativity, and flexibility.
- Attention to detail, organizational, and time management skills.
- Understanding of manufacturing products and processes.
- Basic equipment operation and troubleshooting skills.
- Effective communication to maintain confidentiality, safety, health, quality, and efficiency.
- Ability to read SOPs and guidelines for regulatory compliance.
- Understanding of daily production needs.
- Strong teamwork skills, with leadership capabilities.
- Presence to interact with Senior Leadership.
- Adaptability to a fast-paced, changing environment.
- Experience with production strategies and performance metrics.
- Availability to work any shift, including nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours.
EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field required.
- At least 3 years of CI experience, preferably in manufacturing.
- Knowledge of continuous improvement tools and regulations is preferred.
PHYSICAL & MENTAL DEMANDS:
Work is performed in office and manufacturing environments with varying noise levels and physical demands, including lifting up to 25 pounds, and requires good vision and communication skills. Reasonable accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
The environment includes office settings and manufacturing areas with potential exposure to noise, chemicals, and varying temperatures. PPE is required as per job tasks, including protective gear when handling chemicals or working in hazardous conditions.