Continuous Improvement Manager

Optima Organizational Solutions; Redmond (OR); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Optima Organizational Solutions is looking for an experienced Continuous Improvement Manager to enhance operational performance within their manufacturing site in Redmond, Oregon. The role involves leading continuous improvement efforts, coaching teams, and reducing waste to ensure efficiency and quality.

The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of relevant experience, a Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, and strong analytical and project management skills. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing or operations environments.
• Experience leading continuous improvement initiatives.
• Preferred experience in multi-site operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives aligned with objectives.
• Identify performance gaps and develop improvement plans.
• Facilitate hands-on improvement events focused on safety and quality.
• Coach leaders on continuous improvement principles.
• Analyze operational performance data to track progress.

Skills

Continuous improvement principles

Operational excellence

Analytical skills

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations, or business

Job description

Our client is a leading U.S.-based manufacturer of premium commercial and industrial HVAC equipment. They have requested us to search for an experienced Continuous Improvement Manager to support their manufacturing site in Redmond OR. Relocation assistance available.

SUMMARY

The Continuous Improvement Manager leads and supports continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational performance, quality, and efficiency within manufacturing operations. This role partners with plant leadership and frontline teams to identify opportunities, reduce waste, and strengthen problem‑solving capabilities. The position contributes to department objectives by driving sustainable process improvements and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. The Continuous Improvement Manager serves as a coach and change leader to ensure improvement efforts deliver measurable and lasting results.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leads and supports continuous improvement initiatives aligned with organizational and operational excellence objectives.
• Partners with plant and operations leaders to identify performance gaps and develop improvement plans.
• Facilitates improvement activities, including process reviews, improvement workshops, and hands‑on improvement events focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Coaches leaders and frontline employees on continuous improvement principles, standard work, and structured problem‑solving methods.
• Supports the development and maintenance of standardized processes, documentation, and work practices.
• Analyzes operational performance data and metrics to track progress and communicate results.
• Identifies opportunities for cost savings, productivity improvement, and process stability while ensuring compliance with safety and quality requirements.
• Supports change management efforts by promoting continuous improvement behaviors, employee engagement, and accountability.
• Hires, trains, coaches, counsels, and evaluates performance of direct reports.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations, business, or a related discipline;
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing or operations environments, including experience supporting or leading continuous improvement initiatives, or any combination of education and experience, which would provide an equivalent background.
• Experience supporting multi‑site operations is preferred. Experience in manufacturing or industrial environments is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of continuous improvement and operational excellence principles.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence cross‑functional teams through collaboration and coaching.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to interpret operational data.
• Understanding of operational performance metrics and process improvement methodologies.
• Effective project management skills with a focus on execution and sustainability.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills across all organizational levels.
• Ability to support change initiatives and build credibility with leaders and frontline teams.