Manager Continuous Improvement

generac; Janesville (WI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Generac is seeking a Manager of Continuous Improvement to spearhead Lean initiatives across distribution operations in the United States. You will coach up to 10 coordinators, run Kaizen events, and partner with site leaders to implement the Generac Operating System (GOS) for safer, more efficient processes.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent), 5+ years in continuous improvement, and 3+ years of leadership, with experience in TPS/DBS and SAP among preferred skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a related field.
• 5+ years of Continuous Improvement, Lean, or Operational Excellence experience in manufacturing or distribution.
• 3+ years of people leadership experience.
• Experience with Toyota Production System, Danaher Business System, Shingo principles, or similar Lean operating systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute continuous improvement strategies, projects, and Kaizen events within distribution operations.
• Coach and mentor teams in Lean methodologies including Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, TPM, SMED, and Root Cause Problem Solving.
• Drive implementation and sustainability of the Generac Operating System (GOS) across distribution facilities.
• Lead, develop, and inspire a team of up to 10 Continuous Improvement Coordinators.
• Deliver hands-on training that equips teams to identify waste, improve productivity, and enhance operational performance.
• Partner with site leadership to implement strategic initiatives and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Share best practices and collaborate with corporate Continuous Improvement teams to drive enterprise-wide success.

Skills

Lean transformation

Leadership

Project management

Value Stream Mapping

5S

Standard Work

Visual Management

TPM

SMED

Root Cause Analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or related field

Tools

SAP

Job description

We believe power is a promise - a shared commitment to be there for others when it matters most.

For more than 65 years, we've turned big ideas into solutions that help protect homes, strengthen businesses and build a more resilient, efficient, sustainable energy future.

Ready to Power a Smarter World with us?

Are you passionate about driving operational excellence and leading high-performing teams? As a Manager, Continuous Improvement, you'll play a key role in advancing the Generac Operating System (GOS) across our distribution network. You'll lead a team of Continuous Improvement Coordinators, champion Lean transformation initiatives, and partner with operations leaders to create safer, more efficient, and scalable processes that deliver measurable business results.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Lead and execute continuous improvement strategies, projects, and Kaizen events within distribution operations.
• Coach and mentor teams in Lean methodologies including Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Standard Work, Visual Management, TPM, SMED, and Root Cause Problem Solving.
• Drive implementation and sustainability of the Generac Operating System (GOS) across distribution facilities.
• Lead, develop, and inspire a team of up to 10 Continuous Improvement Coordinators.
• Deliver hands-on training that equips teams to identify waste, improve productivity, and enhance operational performance.
• Partner with site leadership to implement strategic initiatives and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• Share best practices and collaborate with corporate Continuous Improvement teams to drive enterprise-wide success.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Supply Chain, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 5+ years of Continuous Improvement, Lean, or Operational Excellence experience in manufacturing or distribution environments.
• 3+ years of people leadership experience.
• Experience with Toyota Production System, Danaher Business System, Shingo principles, or similar Lean operating systems.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven success leading Lean transformation initiatives and process improvement programs.
• Lean, Operations, or Supply Chain certifications.
• Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems.
• Strong understanding of flow principles, Kanban, PFEP, and material flow optimization.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional projects and drive organizational change.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Innovative mindset with the ability to challenge traditional processes and drive meaningful change.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on sustainable results.
• Exceptional coaching, communication, and leadership capabilities.
• Ability to influence across all levels of the organization and build strong cross-functional partnerships.
• Results-driven leader focused on safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee engagement.

Why Join Generac?

At Generac, you'll have the opportunity to lead impactful initiatives that transform operations while developing people and processes. Join a team that values innovation, continuous improvement, and making a real difference across a growing global organization.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk. On occasion, the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend, or reach above the shoulders. The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional travel.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.