Operational Excellence Lead - Lean & Continuous Improvement

Leclerc Foods; Kingsport (TN); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Leclerc is seeking a Process Improvement Specialist to lead high-impact projects across production lines in Kingsport, TN. You will partner with operations to optimize processes, drive DMAIC workshops, and structure knowledge management using POKA standards.

Ideal candidates hold a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, 5+ years in continuous improvement or manufacturing, and a willingness to travel or adapt to shifts as needed. Join a family business with a long legacy of innovation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in continuous improvement, process optimization, or a manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience with Lean approaches and continuous improvement tools.
• Strong ability to influence, engage, and support change on the shop floor.
• An interest in internal growth towards higher management positions
• Availability to support different shifts when required.
• Willingness to travel occasionally.

Responsibilities

• Lead improvement projects aligned with the strategic priorities of the assigned production lines.
• Facilitate problem-solving and continuous improvement workshops using a DMAIC approach.
• Identify, analyze, and prioritize improvement opportunities.
• Support change management related to the implementation of new work methods.
• Contribute to the introduction of new products and their transition to production.
• Act as a technical expert and support operations teams in process optimization.
• Support line start-ups and help ensure a smooth transition to new operating conditions.
• Participate in operational meetings and follow up on identified actions.
• Structure, document, and share process knowledge across the organization.
• Administer and use POKA for work instructions, standards, and troubleshooting guides.
• Serve as the primary driver of the operational knowledge creation process, ensuring adherence to the structure and standards of knowledge management tools.

Skills

Lean methodologies

Change management

Influence & engagement

Manufacturing experience

5+ years experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Food Science or Chemical Engineering

Job description

Leclerc is seeking a Process Improvement Specialist to lead high-impact projects across production lines in Kingsport, TN. You will partner with operations to optimize processes, drive DMAIC workshops, and structure knowledge management using POKA standards.

Ideal candidates hold a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, 5+ years in continuous improvement or manufacturing, and a willingness to travel or adapt to shifts as needed. Join a family business with a long legacy of innovation.