Continuous Improvement Manager

NPAworldwide; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

NPAworldwide is seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager for our Gainesville, FL plant. You will lead Lean Six Sigma deployment, manage CI projects, and coach teams to drive safety, quality, and productivity improvements.

The role requires a Black Belt, 5+ years in chemical manufacturing CI, and strong leadership and data-analysis skills to foster a culture of continuous improvement across the site.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field.
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt required; Master Black Belt preferred.
• 5+ years in chemical process/manufacturing with CI leadership experience.
• Strong analytical, numerical, and data-analysis skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead Lean Six Sigma deployment at the Gainesville site.
• Deliver foundational Lean Six Sigma training (Yellow/Green Belt).
• Identify and manage a CI project portfolio with measurable impact on safety, quality, cost, and productivity.
• Coach teams in Lean Six Sigma tools, problem solving, and change management.
• Engage stakeholders to drive buy‑in and sustain CI initiatives site‑wide.
• Track, report, and drive improvements in site performance metrics.

Skills

Lean Six Sigma

Training & Capability Building

Leadership

Problem Solving

Data Analysis

Education

Chemical/Industrial Eng (Bachelors)

Tools

Statistical Tools

CI Tools

Job description

Job Description

This company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow's breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, they create products that enhance people's lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, flooring, chemical and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations.

About the Role

We are hiring a Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager for our Gainesville, FL plant. This role leads the implementation of Lean Six Sigma methods at a single chemical process facility. It is a key position responsible for driving operational excellence, nurturing a continuous improvement culture, and achieving measurable business outcomes. The CI Manager oversees the improvement projects, provides Lean Six Sigma training, and promotes a culture of ongoing enhancement while working with a network of CI professionals organization-wide. The ideal candidate is self‑motivated, passionate about excellence, and eager to find and implement improvements that benefit the site and the Fine Chemicals division.

Essential Job Duties And Responsibilities

• Lean Six Sigma Deployment: Lead the implementation and sustainment of Lean Six Sigma initiatives at the site, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and best practices.
• Training & Capability Building: Work with corporate resources to deliver foundational Lean Six Sigma training (e.g., Yellow Belt, Green Belt) to site personnel.
• Improvement Portfolio Management: Identify, prioritize, and manage a portfolio of CI projects, ensuring timely delivery, effective resource allocation, and measurable impact on safety, environmental performance, quality, cost, and productivity. Actively run critical CI projects for the site.
• Coaching & Mentoring: Participate in project teams and coach teams and individuals in Lean Six Sigma tools, problem‑solving, and change management. Work with managers to develop CI talent within the site.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Influence and engage stakeholders at the site to drive buy‑in, overcome resistance, and embed a culture of continuous improvement.
• Performance Measurement: Track and report on CI metrics, project outcomes, and overall site performance improvements.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education: Bachelors degree in Chemical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Lean Six Sigma Certification: Minimum Black Belt; Master Black Belt preferred.
• Experience: 5+ years in a chemical process or manufacturing environment, with a proven track record of leading CI initiatives.
• Technical Skills: Deep knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and other CI methodologies; Strong analytical and numerical skills; proficiency in data analysis and statistical tools.
• Leadership & Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional influencing, coaching, and facilitation skills; Ability to communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences; Strong stakeholder management and conflict resolution abilities.
• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and deliver results in a fast‑paced environment.
• Change Management: Experience driving organizational change and fostering a CI culture.

Preferred Qualifications

• Recognized as a high‑potential employee with leadership aspirations.
• Experience in regulated environments (e.g., chemical, pharmaceutical, or food industries).
• Advanced problem‑solving and root cause analysis skills.
• Collaborative mindset with a passion for developing others.

Why Is This a Great Opportunity

Well known company with multiple sites across the country. Lots of opportunity for growth.