Continuous Improvement Manager

Velocity Resource Group; Spring Lake (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Health Coverage

401(k) with Company Match

Flexible, Unlimited PTO

Positive and Collaborative Work Env.

Wellness Programs

Global Growth Opportunities

Job summary

EQI, headquartered in Spring Lake, Michigan, is seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager to lead lean transformation across global facilities. You will drive an Operational Excellence roadmap, coach teams, and implement standardized systems to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

Reports to the VP of Machining and will travel roughly 20% internationally and domestically, guidingContinuous Improvement initiatives, training, and performance metrics to sustain long-term growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science or business from a four-year accredited college or university or equivalent work experience.
• 7+ years of relevant work experience in manufacturing preferred.
• Proficient in lean tools and problem-solving methodologies.
• Hands-on problem solver with root-cause analysis and verification.
• Knowledge of metal casting processes is a plus.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and drive an Operational Excellence roadmap across functions.
• Lead key operational initiatives and Lean transformation events.
• Grow VAS facility capabilities with new processes and methods.
• Plan feasibility and business cases for new VAS facilities.
• Standardize the EQI Business System across locations.
• Develop and deliver Lean training modules for all levels.
• Monitor KPIs and drive cost savings and quality improvements.
• Travel up to 20% domestically and internationally.

Skills

Lean

Six Sigma

Continuous Improvement

Kaizen

Problem Solving

Project Management

Data Analysis

Team Leadership

Process Improvement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science or business

Tools

5S

Kanban

SMED

TPM

Daily Management

Job description

About EQI

EQI is fluent in doing business around the world, so our customers do not have to be. EQI provides line ready metal components to large manufacturers around the globe utilizing a global supply chain. EQI manages every aspect of the product life‑cycle -- from Product Development to Production Qualification to Logistics and Vendor Managed Inventory Services - letting its customers choose specific services and locations to meet their specific needs. By diversifying our supply base across the globe and offering redundant tooling locations, EQI mitigates risks and maximizes the flexibility to shift production from one location to another. EQI ships to and from multiple ports around the world, supporting our customers with full vendor‑managed inventory services at the end location.

EQI is headquartered in Spring Lake, Michigan with offices in Canada, China, Vietnam, India, and Northern Ireland.

Position Summary:

The Continuous Improvement Manager is an influential leader responsible for driving a culture of sustainable change using continuous improvement methodologies. This position reports to the VP of Machining.

Essential Functions:

• Operational Excellence Processes:


• Develop and drive execution of an Operational Excellence Road map to support organizational 1-Year Goals and 3-Year Picture across all functions


• Lead key operational initiatives


• Value Added Service (“VAS”) facility growth via additional / new processes


• New VAS facilities – feasibility and business plan


• Contribute to an environment where all employees have increased opportunities to contribute to the success of the business through Continuous Improvement Efforts


• Develop and implement a standardized operating system (EQI Business System) across all EQI locations


• Operational policies, processes, and rhythms to manage each location effectively and efficiently


• Consistent approach to Safety, Quality, Focus, Branding and Resource Planning


• Develop and deliver training modules for all levels of the organization such as Intro to Lean, A3 Problem Solving, Kaizen, 5S Workplace Organization, Root Cause Analysis, etc.


• Responsible for identifying, planning, and leading the execution of Lean transformation events targeted at improving the organization’s performance on safety, quality, delivery, cost, and people (SQDCP)


• Acts as a change agent by communicating the organization‑wide changes to the employees and helping them to learn, understand, adjust, and grow within the continuous improvement culture


• Develop, monitor, and analyze full suite of functional metrics (KPI’s) to identify trends or opportunities where cost savings, cost avoidance and/or quality improvements can be realized


• Interface with customers and suppliers to adopt best practices where possible


• Organize GEMBA walks/Go See Engage for Senior Leaders


• Oversee global the execution of the IDEA Program, an EQI program that rewards employees for identifying cost reduction opportunities


• Other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Science or Business from a four‑year accredited college or university or equivalent work experience


• 7+ years of relevant work experience in manufacturing preferred


• Proficient in the use of lean tools such as Continuous Flow, 5S, Kanban, SMED, TPM, Daily Management


• Demonstrated ability to investigate problems and to apply sound technical judgment to develop possible solutions


• Must be a hands‑on problem solver not afraid to go deep to determine the true root cause. Must also be tenacious in ensuring that all corrective actions are not only implemented but verified to ensure ongoing compliance.


• Knowledge of and working experience in metal castings of various processes preferred


• Proficient in engineering print reading, interpretation, and part measurement


• Demonstrated knowledge of probability, statistical quality control and design of experiments


• Experience with Six Sigma tools and methodology preferred


• Familiarity with supplier quality standards, policies, and procedures


• Proficient oral and written communication skills


• Must possess a high level of interpersonal skills to effectively lead, motivate, and facilitate others in group situations. Must be able to deal on a peer‑to‑peer (team) level with personnel from diverse backgrounds and cultures.


• High level of analytical ability to assess and identify appropriate alternative courses of action for definition and resolution of problems that are unique and diverse


• Ability to exercise sound and independent judgment in difficult situations


• Ability to effectively organize and plan


• Ability to travel (US and International) an estimated 20%, as needed.

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support the well‑being, growth, and success of our employees. Highlights include:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to support the health needs of employees and their families.


• 401(k) with Company Match: Competitive retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions to help employees build long‑term financial security.


• Flexible, Unlimited Paid Time Off: An unlimited PTO policy designed to promote work–life balance and allow employees the flexibility they need for rest, personal time, and family commitments.


• Positive and Collaborative Work Environment: A culture that values teamwork, integrity, continuous improvement, and open communication.


• Wellness Programs: Access to a range of wellness initiatives that promote physical and mental well‑being including an EAP program and options for maintaining a healthy lifestyle with gym reimbursement


• Global Growth Opportunities: The chance to work for and grow with an expanding international organization, with exposure to global teams, perspectives, and career development pathways.

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on any protected characteristic. Applicants needing accommodations during the interview process may request them by phone or email.