Industrial Performance Lead | TPM & Lean Excellence

Russell Stover Chocolates; Abilene (KS); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Russell Stover Chocolates in Abilene, KS is seeking an Industrial Performance Specialist to drive the TPM program and operational excellence across the plant. You will coach teams, optimize productivity, and translate data into actionable improvements.

Collaborating with Engineering, Production, and QA, you will implement 5S, SMED, and KPI tracking, champion standardized work, and help build a culture of continuous learning and accountability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Industrial Management, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum of 3+ years in manufacturing, industrial performance, continuous improvement, or operational excellence roles.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, TPM, or Operational Excellence systems.
• Practical SAP or ERP experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of financial analysis and manufacturing performance metrics.
• Advanced computer literacy including Microsoft Office and integrated business systems.
• Strong analytical skills to convert data into actionable improvement plans.
• Ability to coach, mentor, and train teams across the organization.
• Excellent communication skills and fluent English.

Responsibilities

• Drive TPM and Lean practices (5S, visual mgmt, standard work, loss elimination).
• Analyze manufacturing data, identify losses, and lead improvement projects (OEE, throughput).
• Coordinate PCS, Obeya, KPI tracking, and daily management processes.
• Lead structured problem‑solving and cross‑functional improvement workshops.
• Lead SMED/changeover reduction and improve line flexibility.
• Use SAP and manufacturing systems to extract and translate data for leadership.
• Collaborate with Production, Maintenance, Engineering, Quality, Planning, and Supply Chain.
• Coach teams on KPIs, standards, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Kaizen events

Root cause analysis

Visual management

Standard work

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

SAP

ERP systems

Job description

Russell Stover Chocolates in Abilene, KS is seeking an Industrial Performance Specialist to drive the TPM program and operational excellence across the plant. You will coach teams, optimize productivity, and translate data into actionable improvements.

Collaborating with Engineering, Production, and QA, you will implement 5S, SMED, and KPI tracking, champion standardized work, and help build a culture of continuous learning and accountability.