Continuous Improvement Technician

USTBC ABB Installation Products Inc.; Vega Baja (PR); On-site; USD 48,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

ABB Installation Products Caribe LLC in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, is seeking a Continuous Improvement Technician to design, build, test, and implement practical improvement solutions for manufacturing performance. You will apply Lean, automation, and basic controls across fixtures, jigs, workstations, and material-handling devices.

You will collaborate with CI, Engineering, Production, Quality, Maintenance, and EHS teams to transform operational needs into reliable, safe, and scalable solutions,

Qualifications

• Associate degree or technical diploma in Industrial Automation, Electromechanical Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Technology, Electrical Technology, Tool and Die, Mechatronics, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Identify opportunities to improve material flow, productivity, quality, safety, ergonomics, and equipment performance.
• Support and implement Lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Participate in Kaizen events, improvement workshops, Gemba walks, and structured problem-solving activities.
• Collect baseline data and document current conditions before implementing improvements.
• Measure results after implementation to confirm that project objectives have been achieved.
• Design, assemble, wire, program, test, install, and troubleshoot basic automation systems.
• Modify or develop basic PLC and HMI programs under established engineering and controls standards.
• Create electrical and pneumatic diagrams for new or modified equipment.
• Troubleshoot automation, electrical, mechanical, and control-system issues.
• Support equipment commissioning, validation, startup, and production handoff.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Kaizen events

Gemba walks

Structured problem-solving

Reading mechanical drawings

PLC programming basics

Sensors & machine controls

Electrical & pneumatic systems

Education

Associate degree or technical diploma in Industrial Automation or related field

Tools

Hand tools

Wiring diagrams

Job description

This position reports to:Quality Manager

At ABB , we help industries run leaner and cleaner-and every person here makes that happen. You'll be empowered to lead, supported to grow, and proud of the impact we create together. Join us and help run what runs the world.

This position reports to:Continuous Improvement Manager

General Information

This role of Continuous Improvement Technician is responsible for designing, building, testing, and implementing practical improvement solutions that enhance manufacturing performance. This position applies automation, fabrication, toolmaking, troubleshooting, and Lean manufacturing skills to improve material flow, product quality, safety, ergonomics, productivity, and operational reliability.

The technician works closely with Continuous Improvement, Engineering, Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Environmental Health and Safety teams to transform operational needs into safe, reliable, and sustainable solutions. Projects may include fixtures, jigs, workstations, material-handling devices, mistake-proofing systems, machine modifications, basic automation, sensors, controls, and other manufacturing support equipment.

The work model for the role is: onsite.

This role is contributing to the ABB Installation Products Caribe LLC, Vega Baja Puerto Rico, ELIP Division.

Your Responsibility

• Identify opportunities to improve material flow, productivity, quality, safety, ergonomics, and equipment performance.
• Support and implement Lean manufacturing initiatives
• Participate in Kaizen events, improvement workshops, Gemba walks, and structured problem-solving activities.
• Collect baseline data and document current conditions before implementing improvements.
• Measure results after implementation to confirm that project objectives have been achieved.
• Design, assemble, wire, program, test, install, and troubleshoot basic automation systems.
• Modify or develop basic PLC and HMI programs under established engineering and controls standards.
• Create electrical and pneumatic diagrams for new or modified equipment.
• Troubleshoot automation, electrical, mechanical, and control-system issues.
• Support equipment commissioning, validation, startup, and production handoff.
• Ensure that automation solutions are reliable, maintainable, and appropriate for the operational need.
• Design, build, modify, and repair jigs, fixtures, gauges, workstations, machine guards, racks, carts, and material-handling devices.
• Use hand tools, power tools, and machine-shop equipment safely and effectively.
• Perform fabrication activities such as cutting, drilling, grinding, machining, welding, assembly, and finishing, depending on qualifications and site requirements.
• Create prototypes and proof-of-concept solutions before full implementation.
• Select appropriate materials and components based on load, durability, compatibility, safety, cost, and operating conditions.
• Use measurement tools to verify dimensions, fit, alignment, and functionality.
• Maintain tools, equipment, drawings, programs, and project materials in an organized condition.
• Convert improvement concepts into practical designs, prototypes, and production-ready solutions.
• Prepare or update technical drawings, layouts, bills of materials, wiring diagrams, and equipment documentation.
• Use computer-aided design software to develop basic mechanical parts, assemblies, fixtures, and workstation layouts.
• Support equipment installations, process changes, manufacturing trials, and engineering projects.
• Assist with equipment acceptance testing, process qualification, and validation activities, as required.

Your Background

• Associate degree or technical diploma in Industrial Automation, Electromechanical Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Mechanical Technology, Electrical Technology, Tool and Die, Mechatronics , or a related field. Or An equivalent combination of technical education, certifications, and relevant hands-on manufacturing experience may be considered.
• Two or more years of experience in manufacturing, industrial maintenance, automation, toolmaking, fabrication, engineering support, or continuous improvement.
• Experience building or modifying fixtures, tools, workstations, equipment, or automation systems.
• Experience troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, or control-system issues.
• Previous experience supporting manufacturing improvement projects.

Required Technical Skills

• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, pneumatic diagrams, and technical specifications.
• Working knowledge of industrial electrical and mechanical systems.
• Basic PLC programming and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience with sensors, relays, motors, pneumatic systems, and machine controls.
• Proficiency using hand