Continuous Improvement Manager

GATX; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 112,000 - 141,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Job summary

GATX is seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager to lead lean initiatives across North America, including repair centers, driving value through Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost using Lean methodologies. The role requires a strong data-driven approach to measurable improvements.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor''s degree in Operations Management or Industrial Engineering, 5+ years of supervisory experience, and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or higher.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering or other relevant discipline.
• 5 years' minimum supervisory experience in industrial environment.
• Experience with data analysis, KPI development, and visual performance management systems preferred.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or higher certification is preferred.
• Project Management certification and experience a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and Kaizen/Blitz activities to drive change with sustainable results.
• Lead projects supporting strategic initiatives as identified through goal deployment.
• Educate and train in problem-solving to achieve organizational goals; coach in A3 thinking, PDCA, Root Cause Analysis, and other methodologies.
• Travel requirements vary and could be up to 35% of the time across GATX facilities.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Education

Operations/Eng degree

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Project Management certification

Job description

Founded in 1898 and headquartered in Chicago, IL, GATX Corporation (NYSE: GATX) is an industry leader with 125+ years of success - success that is powered by our people.

At GATX, we hire the best and offer our employees a dynamic, energetic, collaborative environment to enable them to make an impact from day one. Enjoy the perks and benefits of a global company with the close-knit culture and community of a much smaller one. In the same way we strive to empower our customers to propel the world forward, we are dedicated to providing our people with the tools and resources they need to advance in their careers.

The Continuous Improvement Manager plays a pivotal role in driving operational excellence across GATX Rail North America, including our Repair Service Centers. This position is responsible for leading strategic process improvement initiatives that enhance Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost performance. By applying Lean methodologies and structured problem-solving techniques, the manager will help build a culture of continuous improvement and operational discipline. The ideal candidate is passionate about transforming processes, optimizing operations, and using data-driven insights to deliver measurable results.

Responsibilities

Lead Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and Kaizen/Blitz activities to drive change with sustainable results

• Analyze data, identify and scope improvement opportunities
• Acquire cross functional involvement
• Develop ownership for results
• Responsible for establishing baseline and tracking/reporting realized improvement
• Ensure improvements are sustained

Lead projects supporting strategic initiatives as identified through goal deployment

• 5S implementation
• Be a driver for Daily Visual Management
• Support facility capital projects

Educate and train in the pursuit of creating a problem-solving culture to achieve goals within the organization

• Coach in A3 thinking, PDCA, Root Cause Analysis and other problem-solving methodologies
• Facilitate and empower teams to engage in local problem-solving
• Teach others to lead their own events, and initiate rapid change at all levels of the organization

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering or other relevant discipline is required
• 5 years' minimum supervisory experience in industrial environment
• Experience in a low-volume/high-mix industry or multiple, varied industries is preferred
• Experience with data analysis, KPI development, and visual performance management systems preferred
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or higher certification is preferred
• Project Management certification and experience a plus
• Analytical Skills

Other

• Travel requirements vary with assignments but could be as much as 35% of the time across GATX fixed facilities.
• Must be physically able to climb on equipment within a maintenance facility, stand on feet for extended periods in a plant environment.

This is a hybrid position that will require the employee to work in the office at least 3 days a week throughout the year.

Salary range

$111,800.00 USD - $141,000.00 USD

This range is a reasonable estimate and takes into account several factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including, but not limited to, geographic location, skill set, experience, education, training, internal equity, and other business needs.

This role may be eligible to participate in the Company's short-term incentive plan, the details of which will be provided to the applicant upon hire.

Posting Duration

This posting will remain open until filled.