Continuous Improvement Manager

Tenneco Inc.; Napoleon (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Tenneco Inc. located in Napoleon, OH, is seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager to lead Lean/Six Sigma initiatives across manufacturing operations.

The role focuses on reducing waste, improving efficiency, and driving sustainable growth through data-driven methods and cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years in process improvement, strong analytical skills, and proven leadership.

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.
• Lean, Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt preferred).

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 data analytics and root cause analysis to prioritize projects.
• Lead Kaizen events and 5S initiatives to drive workplace efficiency.

Skills

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication

Lean Six Sigma

Project management

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree (Business/Engineering/Operations)

Tools

Data analysis software

Job description

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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.

Job Title:Continuous Improvement Manager

Department: Manufacturing
Reports To:Plant Manager
Location:Napoleon, OH
Employment Type:Full-Time

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