Continuous Improvement Manager

Gables Search; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative manufacturer in the Greater Milwaukee area is seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager to spearhead efficiency and quality initiatives. This role requires a hands-on leader who can drive Lean strategies and foster a culture of improvement across teams. With a focus on measurable outcomes, you'll collaborate with department heads to identify quick wins and long-term enhancements. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in continuous improvement, a strong understanding of quality systems, and excellent communication skills. Join a dynamic environment where your contributions will make a significant impact on operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in continuous improvement or Lean initiatives.
• Strong grasp of root cause tools and quality systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead process improvement efforts across operations and business functions.
• Guide root cause analysis and cost-saving projects.

Skills

Continuous Improvement

Lean Methodologies

Root Cause Analysis

Process Mapping

Quality Systems

Project Management

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Business

Bachelor’s Degree in Operations

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

ERP Systems (SAP, Oracle)

Visio

SharePoint

Job description

We’re recruiting for a growing manufacturer in the Greater Milwaukee, WI area that’s serious about getting better, faster. They’re looking for a Continuous Improvement Manager who thrives in a fast-moving, hands-on environment and can turn process challenges into measurable wins.

This role is all about driving efficiency, cutting waste, improving quality, and helping teams think lean. If you’ve led CI or Lean initiatives before and know how to get people onboard and aligned, this could be a great fit.

What You’ll Do:

Lead hands-on process improvement efforts across operations and business functions

Guide root cause analysis, corrective action, and cost-saving projects

Roll out Lean strategies and standardized workflows that actually stick

Collaborate with department heads to identify quick wins and long-term improvements

Monitor key metrics and report on the impact of your initiatives

Present ideas and progress to leadership—clear, concise, and results-driven

Help streamline safety tracking and other operational systems

Act as a coach, not just a planner—get in the trenches when needed

What We’re Looking For:

5+ years of experience in continuous improvement, Lean, or operational excellence

Strong grasp of root cause tools, process mapping, quality systems, and documentation

Experience with ISO standards and improvement tracking

Bachelor’s degree in business, operations, or a related field

Confident managing multiple projects, deadlines, and teams

Great communicator—able to present ideas clearly and motivate others

Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and ERP systems like SAP or Oracle

Willingness to travel as needed

Bonus Skills:

PFMEA experience

Familiarity with Visio, SharePoint, or similar tools

Past success managing cost-of-quality or improvement metrics

You must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship