Lean Transformation Leader – Manufacturing CI

KMT Waterjet; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Shape Technologies Group (SHAPE) seeks a Continuous Improvement Manager for Baxter Springs, KS to lead site initiatives across manufacturing operations. You will partner with Operations, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain to improve safety, quality, delivery, and productivity.

The role requires Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen expertise, strong analytics, and the ability to drive cross-functional projects; travel and adaptability are expected.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, value stream mapping, and root cause analysis.
• Ability to lead cross-functional improvement projects and influence change at all levels.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, facilitation, and communication skills.
• Experience using production data, KPIs, Excel, ERP systems, and reporting tools to drive improvements.
• Ability to work effectively in a manufacturing environment and partner across multiple departments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute site continuous improvement initiatives aligned with business goals.
• Lead Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, value stream mapping, root cause analysis, and process improvement projects.
• Identify and eliminate waste, improve workflow, and support standard work across machining, fabrication, welding, assembly, and support areas.
• Establish, monitor, and report key performance metrics, including safety, quality, productivity, labor efficiency, scrap, OEE, on-time delivery, and cost savings.
• Partner with Quality and Engineering to support corrective actions, reduce defects, and improve process capability.
• Train and coach supervisors and employees on Lean, problem-solving, and continuous improvement tools.
• Support employee engagement through idea generation, CI participation, and development of CI champions.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Value stream mapping

Root cause analysis

Cross-functional leadership

Analytical

Problem-solving

Excel

ERP systems

Reporting tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field

Tools

Excel

ERP systems

Job description

Shape Technologies Group (SHAPE) seeks a Continuous Improvement Manager for Baxter Springs, KS to lead site initiatives across manufacturing operations. You will partner with Operations, Quality, Engineering, and Supply Chain to improve safety, quality, delivery, and productivity.

The role requires Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen expertise, strong analytics, and the ability to drive cross-functional projects; travel and adaptability are expected.