Continuous Improvement Manager

Komline; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Komline is seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager in Rockford, IL to lead lean initiatives, map processes, and drive value through Kaizen events across multiple sites.

The role requires 5+ years in operations or CI, strong problem-solving, and the ability to train staff from executives to shop floor. Travel of 20-40% is expected, with a focus on sustainable improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, operations, or related field required.
• Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt) preferred.
• Strong knowledge of Kaizen and continuous improvement practices.
• Experience in manufacturing environments and problem solving.
• Excellent communication and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and drive Komline's continuous improvement initiatives company-wide.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices.
• Educate and train team members in lean practices and Kaizen execution.
• Develop roadmaps and execute policy deployment (Hoshin Kanri, X Matrix).
• Map processes, quantify impact, and sustain improvements across sites.
• Build and mentor a team of CI leaders at key operation sites.
• Report measurable outcomes of KBS and lean programs.

Skills

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Kaizen

Problem solving

MS Excel

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in industrial engineering, supply chain, or related field

Job description

As a pioneering leader in advanced separation technologies, Komline has established a global reputation for engineering excellence. Through our combination of innovative design, cutting-edge manufacturing capabilities, and decades of industry experience, we consistently deliver the highest quality equipment from our integrated manufacturing facilities. Serving our core markets of Water & Process, Agricultural & Renewables, and Industrials, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive separation solutions precisely tailored to our clients' requirements. With a strong track record of strategic growth and acquisitions, Komline continues to expand its solution portfolio and technical capabilities while maintaining our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

This Opportunity

The Continuous Improvement Manager will lead and drive Komline’s continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, quality, and productivity. This role involves identifying opportunities for process improvements, implementing best practices, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the entire organization. The Continuous Improvement Manager in addition to creating the foundational roadmap and execution of lean best practices (Kaizen), will educate and train team members through a mixed strategy of instruction and hands-on best practices to drive immediate value execution, process mapping, and Kaizen implementation.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate Komline Business System (KBS) principles and processes across Komline


• Partner with Business Unit (BU) leadership on standardized KBS Implementation, documentation, templates, and etc to align BUs in a standard approach to KBS


• Coordinate with BUs on their progress in implementing KBS as the system scales and matures over short- and long-term timeframes to align with business needs


• Train and develop team members ranging from senior leadership to shop floor associates on lean process by means of Kaizen and continuous improvement


• Lead rollout of Policy Deployment (Hoshin Kanri, X Matrix, True North, etc) as the business system matures to achieve breakthroughs for long-term strategy


• Create sustainable and fit-for-purpose processes within Komline’s multi-site, large equipment manufacturing environment; create buy-in for lean manufacturing tools and culture


• Lead central Kaizen funnel review and facilitate events on site. Assure effectiveness of Kaizens by accounting for proven sustainability of event results


• Build a team of self-sufficient continuous improvement leaders at key operational sites to drive daily best practices and waste reduction


• Hands on use of lean tools, bowlers, problem solving, and action plans


• Report and quantify the impact of KBS and Komline’s lean and continuous improvement program

Required

• Bachelor’s Degree in industrial engineering, supply chain, or a related field


• 5+ years previous experience in operations, supply chain, or continuous improvement


• Knowledge and demonstration of Kaizen continuous improvement practices


• Relevant certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt


• Strong knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and methodologies


• Experience in problem-solving and root cause analysis


• Excellent analytical and decision-making abilities


• Previous experience in a manufacturing environment


• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills with ability to influence both executives and shop floor associates


• Proficiency in MS Office, especially Excel


• Ability to travel between 20-40%

Equal Opportunity Statement

Komline is an EEO Employer- M/F/Vets/Disabled