Continuous Improvement Specialist

Socket.dev; Chalfont (PA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

401(k) match

Paid time off

Job summary

Pengate Handling Systems is seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist to drive Lean initiatives, standardize processes, and boost operational performance across branches through data-driven problem solving on-site.

You will lead Kaizen events, develop standard work, perform Gemba walks, analyze KPIs, and support training to embed a culture of continuous improvement across teams.

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent practical experience.
• 2-3 years of experience in operations, service process improvement, or related environments preferred but not required.
• Exposure to Lean, continuous improvement, or structured problem-solving concepts (Kaizen, A3, standard work).
• Experience supporting improvement initiatives, documenting processes, or participating in cross-functional projects.
• Comfortable working with basic data, metrics, or performance indicators.

Responsibilities

• Lead Lean and continuous improvement initiatives across branches, including Kaizen events and standard work development.
• Identify gaps and inefficiencies via on-site assessments and Gemba walks.
• Collect and analyze current-state processes; design improved future-state workflows.
• Develop and maintain SOPs, visual management tools, and training materials.
• Track KPIs to measure improvement impact and support adoption of new processes.

Skills

Lean principles

Cross-functional collaboration

Clear communication

Gemba walks

Problem solving

Education

Associate or Bachelor’s degree

Job description

Pengate Handling Systems is a full-service provider of material handling equipment and solutions, helping businesses move, store, and manage products more efficiently. We design, build, and install conveyors, automation systems, and custom storage solutions tailored to each client’s operational needs. Our projects improve workflow, boost productivity, and enhance safety, delivering real, measurable results. With expertise across industries, we combine engineering know-how with hands-on experience to create systems that solve complex challenges and keep businesses running smoothly.

Pengate is seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist to support and advance operational excellence initiatives across our branches. This role plays a key part in driving process standardization, improving operational efficiency, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement aligned with Lean principles, ASEC standards, and corporate objectives. The ideal candidate thrives in both hands-on, on-site environments and analytical, administrative work.

What You’ll Do

• Support and facilitate Lean and continuous improvement initiatives, including Kaizen events, A3 problem solving, standard work development, and waste reduction activities.
• Participate in improvement projects focused on safety, quality, productivity, operational efficiency, and customer experience.
• Conduct on-site assessments, Gemba walks, and process observations to identify gaps, inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities.
• Collect and analyze current-state processes; help design and implement improved future-state workflows.
• Develop, update, and maintain standardized work instructions, SOPs, visual management tools, job aids, and training documentation.
• Support the rollout of new or revised processes, ensuring teams understand expectations and have the tools needed for successful adoption.
• Track, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of improvement efforts.
• Assist leaders and frontline teams with problem-solving by applying Lean tools and structured root-cause methodologies.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging employee engagement, idea generation, and frontline problem-solving.
• Identify, document, and share best practices across branches to drive consistency and organizational learning.
• Support onboarding and training related to new processes, systems, tools, and standard work.

What You Bring

• Strong interest in continuous improvement, process improvement, and operational excellence.
• Excellent collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams.
• Clear communication skills and the ability to listen, ask questions, and share ideas.
• Comfort observing processes, identifying opportunities, and supporting hands-on change in operational environments.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Positive, adaptable mindset with a desire to improve how work gets done.
• Willingness to learn and apply Lean concepts, tools, and problem-solving approaches.

Education & Experience

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent practical experience.
• 2-3 years of experience in operations, service process improvement, or related environments preferred but not required.
• Exposure to Lean, continuous improvement, or structured problem-solving concepts (Kaizen, A3, standard work, etc.).
• Experience supporting improvement initiatives, documenting processes, or participating in cross-functional projects.
• Comfortable working with basic data, metrics, or performance indicators.

Why Work at Pengate?

• Impactful Work: Your ideas and improvements directly influence operations, efficiency, and customer experience across multiple branches.
• Continuous Learning: Grow your skills in Lean principles, process improvement, and problem-solving while collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Supportive Culture: We value curiosity, innovation, and teamwork. Your contributions are recognized and celebrated.
• Career Growth: Opportunities to take on new challenges, lead initiatives, and advance within the organization.
• Dynamic Environment: No two days are the same - from Gemba walks on the floor to data analysis and project implementation, you’ll be engaged and challenged.

Company Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.

Physical Requirements

• Regular travel to branch locations; ability to spend extended periods in operational environments.
• Ability to stand, walk, and observe work processes during site visits and Gemba walks.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while preparing documentation and analyzing data.
• Ability to bend, reach, or move within work areas as needed.
• Ability to lift or carry light materials (up to 25 lbs).
• Close vision and ability to adjust focus.

Pengate Handling Systems is dedicated to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote and celebrate a diverse workforce and do not tolerate any discrimination. All human relations decisions will not be based on persons’ race, color, religion, sex, national original, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status, or citizenship. All potential hires are subject to pre-employment checks which include but are not limited to background checks and drug screenings. In addition, we will provide reasonableaccommodationsfor individuals with disabilities. Should you require an accommodation in completing an application, interview, or pre-employment requirement, please reach out to our Talent Acquisition team at [e-mail]