Continuous Improvement Leader

Hitachi, Ltd.; Jefferson City (MO); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Hitachi Energy in Jefferson City seeks a Digital Lean Transformation Leader to drive continuous improvement by blending Lean principles with modern digital tools. You will transform data into insights to improve Safety, Quality, Delivery, Inventory, and Cost performance.

You will lead Kaizen events, develop KPI dashboards with Power BI, and digitize manual processes using Power Apps, coaching teams across functions to deliver measurable results.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related field.
• 2+ years of experience in manufacturing, engineering, quality, materials, operations, or process improvement environments.
• Experience leading Kaizen events, continuous improvement projects, or operational excellence initiatives.
• Strong problem-solving skills with experience facilitating root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Experience influencing stakeholders and collaborating across multiple functions and organizational levels.
• Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement certification preferred; experience with ITM or similar operating systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and ITM principles supported by digital technologies.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to foster a culture of operational excellence and continuous learning.
• Facilitate Kaizen events utilizing tools such as 5S, visual management, daily management, and value stream mapping.
• Develop and maintain KPI visibility through Power BI dashboards and performance reviews.
• Drive the digitization of manual processes using Power Apps and other low-code technologies.
• Lead productivity and cost optimization initiatives through data-driven analysis and problem-solving.
• Coach teams and leaders in Lean methodologies, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement practices.
• Support ITM assessments, action plans, and the implementation of standardized ways of working.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Kaizen facilitation

Data-driven decision making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering / Manufacturing / Business

Tools

Power BI

Power Apps

ITM systems

Job description

Job Description

The Opportunity

At Hitachi Energy, we believe continuous improvement and innovation go hand in hand. As a Digital Lean Transformation Leader, you will have the opportunity to drive meaningful change by combining Lean manufacturing principles with modern digital solutions to enhance operational performance across our Jefferson City facility.

Responsible to ensure compliance with applicable external and internal regulations, procedures and guidelines.

In this highly visible role, you'll partner with teams across operations, engineering, quality, materials, and leadership to create smarter ways of working. You'll help transform data into insights, streamline processes, and foster a culture where continuous improvement is part of everyday work. From leading impactful Kaizen events to implementing digital tools that increase efficiency and transparency, your contributions will help improve Safety, Quality, Delivery, Inventory, and Cost performance.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys solving complex challenges, empowering teams, and turning strategic goals into measurable results. You'll have the freedom to influence change, introduce innovative ideas, and build sustainable improvements that make a real difference. At Hitachi Energy, you'll join a collaborative and inclusive environment where curiosity is encouraged, development is supported, and your work directly contributes to advancing a more sustainable energy future.

How You'll Make an Impact

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and ITM principles supported by digital technologies.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to foster a culture of operational excellence and continuous learning.
• Facilitate Kaizen events utilizing tools such as 5S, visual management, daily management, and value stream mapping.
• Develop and maintain KPI visibility through Power BI dashboards and performance reviews.
• Drive the digitization of manual processes using Power Apps and other low-code technologies.
• Lead productivity and cost optimization initiatives through data-driven analysis and problem-solving.
• Coach teams and leaders in Lean methodologies, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement practices.
• Support ITM assessments, action plans, and the implementation of standardized ways of working.

Responsible to ensure compliance with applicable external and internal regulations, procedures and guidelines.

Your Background

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in manufacturing, engineering, quality, materials, operations, or process improvement environments.
• Experience leading Kaizen events, continuous improvement projects, or operational excellence initiatives.
• Strong problem-solving skills with experience facilitating root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Experience influencing stakeholders and collaborating across multiple functions and organizational levels.
• Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement certification preferred; experience with ITM or similar operating systems is a plus.

More About Us

• Join a purpose-driven global organization committed to advancing a more sustainable, secure, and reliable energy future.
• Expand your skills through continuous learning, digital upskilling programs, leadership development, and global career opportunities.
• Thrive in an inclusive, collaborative culture where diverse perspectives fuel innovation and long-term success.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

Protected veterans and qualified individuals with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access the Hitachi Energy career site as a result of your disability. You may request reasonable accommodations by completing a general inquiry form on our website. Please include your contact information and specific details about your required accommodation to support you during the job application process.

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Use of Al and automated tools in recruitment

As part of our recruitment process, Hitachi Energy uses digital and automated tools, including Al-supported solutions, to assist with activities such as application screening, job matching, and interview scheduling. These tools are designed to support our recruiters and do not replace human decision-making. Candidate data is processed in accordance with applicable data protection and employment laws as well as Hitachis Global Data Privacy Notice.