Continuous Improvement Specialist II

AAON, Inc.; Memphis (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

AAON, Inc. is seeking a Continuous Improvement Lead in Memphis, Tennessee, to spearhead operational improvement initiatives. This role will focus on enhancing efficiency, product quality, and process reliability within the manufacturing environment.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in engineering or business with over 4 years of relevant experience, ideally in the HVAC field. The position requires strong analytical and project management skills, along with the ability to lead and influence teams effectively.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in process improvement initiatives in manufacturing.
• Experience in HVAC or related manufacturing industries is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives across the facility.
• Facilitate problem-solving sessions and training to enhance capabilities.
• Analyze performance indicators and present data-driven updates to leadership.

Skills

Continuous improvement principles

Analytical skills

Project management

Strong communication

Relationship building

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations, business, or related field

Job description

Job Description Supports site-level continuous improvement initiatives by leading projects that enhance operational efficiency, product quality, and process reliability. Partners with leadership, supervisors, and frontline employees to identify performance gaps, reduce waste, and improve workflow across the facility. Facilitates structured problem solving sessions, improvement events, and training activities to strengthen organizational capability. Develops standardized processes, evaluates performance trends, and ensures improvement activities align with safety, regulatory, and operational requirements. Contributes to a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and long‑term operational excellence.

Primary Duties

• Leads the planning and execution of continuous improvement initiatives that improve process performance, reduce waste, and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Collaborates with plant leadership and operational teams to diagnose process issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.
• Facilitates improvement events, workshops, and training sessions to build employee capability in problem solving and continuous improvement methods.
• Conducts on‑site evaluations to identify non‑standard conditions and partners with teams to restore process stability.
• Develops, maintains, and improves standardized work practices to support consistent operations.
• Analyzes performance indicators and prepares clear, data‑driven updates for leadership to support decision‑making.
• Benchmarks industry practices and integrates relevant improvements to strengthen long‑term operational performance.
• Ensures that improvement activities comply with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Requires a Bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations, business, or a related field; 4+ years of experience leading or supporting process improvement initiatives in a manufacturing or operations environment; or any combination of education and experience which would provide an equivalent background. Experience in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning or related manufacturing industries preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of continuous improvement principles and methods used to identify and reduce process waste.
• Ability to lead teams through structured problem‑solving and improvement activities.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate operational data and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Ability to build relationships and influence employees at all levels to support improvement initiatives.
• Strong communication skills to clearly convey concepts, goals, and progress updates.
• Skill in developing standardized procedures and maintaining process documentation.
• Ability to support organizational change through coaching, collaboration, and effective communication.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Essential Mental and Physical Functions

• Ability to analyze information, make decisions, and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Occasional standing, walking, and movement throughout manufacturing facilities.
• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs. during facility visits.
• Frequent interaction with leadership, supervisors, and frontline teams.
• Occasional travel to other facilities or vendor locations as needed.

Work Environment

• Performs work on‑site in an office setting with routine visits to manufacturing areas.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, noise levels, and industrial equipment during plant visits.
• Use of personal protective equipment required when in designated operational areas.
• Occasional overnight travel may be required to support improvement activities or collaboration across locations.