Continuous Improvement Manager - Paper Mill and Converting

Ilocatum; Pryor Creek (OK); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Ilocatum seeks a Lean Manufacturing / Continuous Improvement Leader to drive operational excellence across paper mill and converting operations near Tulsa, OK. Lead cost-reduction initiatives, coach teams, and implement lean tools to achieve measurable improvements.

The role requires a proven track record in lean/six sigma environments, collaboration with cross-functional leadership, and the ability to translate data into actionable site plans.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field or equivalent experience.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations and lean principles.
• Proven experience driving continuous improvement initiatives in paper manufacturing or similar.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; Power BI or SAP is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to coach teams and collaborate with leadership.

Responsibilities

• Coach and drive lean manufacturing tools across the paper mill and converting plant.
• Lead quarterly loss analyses to identify operational opportunities and align site action plans.
• Lead cost savings initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Perform loss analysis data drilldowns to uncover improvement opportunities.
• Serve as primary problem-solving lead using the DMAIC process.

Skills

Lean principles

Manufacturing operations

Coaching teams

Data-driven decision making

DMAIC process

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Tools

Power BI

SAP

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Job description:

• Coach and drive the rigorous usage and continuous improvement of lean manufacturing tools across the paper mill and converting plant.
• Conduct quarterly loss analyses to identify top operational opportunities and align site action plans with high-impact improvements.
• Lead cost savings and cost reduction initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Perform regular loss analysis data drilldowns to uncover key improvement opportunities.
• Serve as the primary problem-solving lead, guiding teams through complex challenges using the DMAIC process.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to implement sustainable process improvements.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and operational discipline.
• Collaborate with leadership to ensure alignment of improvement initiatives with business objectives.
• Track, analyse, and report performance metrics to measure effectiveness of improvement initiatives.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in engineering or related field (equivalent experience will be considered).
• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations and lean principles.
• Proven experience driving continuous improvement initiatives in the paper manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel is required; experience with Power BI or SAP is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to coach teams, build systems, and collaborate effectively within leadership teams.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification is preferred.
• Hands-on, results-driven approach with the ability to influence change across the organization.

Why is This a Great Opportunity:

Seeking a Lean Manufacturing / Continuous Improvement Leader for a growing paper packaging manufacturer near the Tulsa, Oklahoma area. This position offers a unique opportunity to drive operational excellence by implementing lean methodologies, leading cost reduction initiatives, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across both mill and converting operations.