Continuous Improvement Manager

Tenneco; Napoleon (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Tenneco is seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager to lead Lean and Six Sigma initiatives that cut waste, boost efficiency, and drive sustainable growth across our operations. You will analyze processes, run Kaizen events, and mentor teams, applying the Tenneco Way and Clean Sheet methods to uncover cost-saving opportunities and improve financial performance.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years in process improvement or operations, with strong analytics and leadership

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in process improvement, operations, or quality management.
• Proven experience with Lean and Six Sigma methodologies (Green/Black Belt preferred).

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional continuous improvement projects.
• Analyze current processes to identify inefficiencies and areas for enhancement.
• Develop and implement strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Facilitate Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen workshops and training sessions.
• Monitor and report on KPI-driven outcomes to senior management.
• Drive 5S and workplace organization across all areas.

Skills

Lean principles

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Tools

Data analytics software

Root cause analysis tools

Project management tools

Job description

At Tenneco, we don’t follow industry standards; we set them, and we don’t settle for being best-in-class because we hustle to be better than best-in-class. Whether it’s our Core Values – radical candor, simplify, organizational velocity, tenacious execution and win – or our Get Stuff Done (GSD) mindset, we’re determined to become the most trusted partner and best manufacturer and distributor to the transportation industry.

With a product portfolio as expansive as it is innovative, an obsessive commitment to quality and excellence, and a global presence, we’re all about getting stuff done, so we can win.

How do we make it happen? Through the Tenneco Way. Fueled by our Core Values, a winning mindset and a relentless commitment to excellence, the Tenneco Way is how we win. It’s what keeps Team Tenneco bold, driven, and unapologetically focused on pushing past limits and redefining success.

Here, you’ll work alongside a team of relentless problem-solvers who are committed to making a tangible impact. If you’re ready to break boundaries, deliver results, and enjoy the ride along the way, you’ll thrive here.

Want to learn more about who we are? Check out our website to discover the Tenneco Way

Job Summary

The Continuous Improvement Manager is responsible for leading initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, reduce waste, and drive sustainable growth. This role involves analyzing business processes, implementing Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage cross-functional continuous improvement projects.
• Analyze current business processes to identify inefficiencies and areas for enhancement.
• Develop and implement strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Facilitate workshops and training sessions on Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other methodologies.
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of improvement initiatives using KPIs.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation of changes.
• Promote a culture of innovation and continuous learning.
• Maintain documentation and present progress reports to senior management.
• Utilize various tools (e.g., data analytics, root cause analysis, WAVE) to collect data and prioritize improvement projects that directly impact financial performance.
• Analyze downtime data to identify root causes and lead cross-functional teams to implement sustainable solutions.
• Conduct regular project review meetings to ensure progress, accountability, and alignment with site goals.
• Facilitate and sustain 5S initiatives across all areas to drive workplace organization and efficiency.
• Lead Kaizen events to engage employees and capture actionable improvement ideas.
• Learn and apply Tenneco’s Clean Sheet methodology; conduct workshops to identify cost-saving and process optimization opportunities.
• Collaborate closely with site leadership to identify, prioritize, and execute impactful improvement projects that support operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in process improvement, operations, or quality management.
• Proven experience with Lean, Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt certification preferred).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• Proficiency in project management tools and data analysis software.

Skills

• Proficient in analyzing Profit & Loss (P&L) statements to identify performance gaps and improvement opportunities
• Skilled in establishing, measuring, and tracking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to drive operational performance
• Strong follow-up discipline to ensure timely implementation and completion of improvement projects
• Confident in conducting difficult conversations to address project delays and remove roadblocks
• Experienced in leading and delivering training sessions across various levels of the organization
• Committed to fostering and sustaining a culture of continuous improvement
• Highly motivated with a strong drive to achieve daily progress and measurable results
• Organized and methodical with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• Capable of preparing and presenting results and improvement initiatives to senior leadership

Equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities