Plant Continuous Improvement Manager

Modine Manufacturing Company; Grenada (MS); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) Retirement plan

Tuition Reimbursement

Job summary

Modine Manufacturing Company in Grenada, Mississippi, is seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager. This pivotal role involves leading process optimization initiatives across the manufacturing plant that specializes in chillers for data centers. Responsibilities include developing strategies to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in continuous improvement and a strong background in Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. The position offers a competitive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and process improvement methodologies.
• Ability to influence stakeholders at all levels without direct authority.

Responsibilities

• Lead the deployment of Lean Management System across the organization.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to prioritize improvement projects.
• Develop a Daily Management System to track performance indicators.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Data Analytics

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Business

Master's degree preferred

Tools

ERP systems

Data analytics tools

Statistical software

Job description

Position Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and strategic Continuous Improvement Manager to lead process optimization and operational excellence initiatives across our manufacturing plant specializing in chillers for data centers. This role is designed to sit independently atop the function, ensuring direct influence over all areas of manufacturing and enabling transformational change without being embedded within operations. The Continuous Improvement Manager will be responsible for developing and executing strategies to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance overall performance while fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

Continuous Improvement Strategy & Execution

• Lead the deployment of the LMS (Lean Management System) rooted in Daily Management, aligned and focused on 80/20 improvement driving accountability at all levels of the organization.
• Develop and drive a plant-wide continuous improvement roadmap that aligns with business goals and enhances operational efficiency.
• Responsible for the creation, maintenance, and implementation of the Ideal State VSM (Value Stream Map) and transformation plan for the site.
• Responsible for Customer TAKT requirements by identifying and implementing strategies to achieve the required capacity to meet the Customer schedules @ 98% or greater OTD. This is executed through tools such as Material flow analysis, KANBAN, Line balancing, Sub Assembly, Scheduling boards, Daily Management (Tier), Kitting, Tugger Delivery, Standard Work (Operators & Leaders), Data availability and reporting to eliminate bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and waste in production, assembly, and supply chain operations.
• Develop and deploy the lead one, teach one philosophy in deployment of the CI acumen across the Data Center organization.
• Serve as the subject matter expert with respect to Lean practices and tools. Develop the playbook/matrix for the application of such tools.
• Lead Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen initiatives to optimize manufacturing processes, reduce variability, and improve product quality.
• Implement and oversee standard work processes, automation opportunities, and best practices for sustainable improvements.

Cross-Functional Leadership & Change

• Collaborate with leadership, operations, engineering, and supply chain teams to identify and prioritize improvement projects.
• Serve as change agent, ensuring that new processes are adopted and sustained across all levels of the organization.
• Train and mentor employees on continuous improvement methodologies, fostering an environment of innovation and accountability.
• Lead and facilitate Kaizen events, workshops, and cross-functional problem-solving sessions to drive engagement and results.

Performance Measurement & Data Driven Decision Making

• Develop and build a Daily Management System to track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of improvement initiatives.
• Utilize data analytics, root cause analysis (RCA), and statistical process controls (SPC) to drive decision‑making continuous improvement efforts.
• Conduct regular Layered Process Audits (LPA) and assessments to ensure process adherence and identify further improvement opportunities.

Efficiency & Cost Reduction

• Lead cost-reduction initiatives through value stream mapping, cycle time reduction, and process reengineering.
• Optimize material flow, inventory management, and resource allocation to enhance throughput and reduce operational costs.
• Drive improvement in energy efficiency and sustainability within manufacturing operations.

Required Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in continuous improvement, Lean manufacturing, or operational excellence within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven expertise in Lean, Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt preferred), Kaizen, and other process improvement methodologies.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, industrial engineering, and production systems—preferably in HVAC, refrigeration, or related items.
• Experience with ERP/MES systems, data analytics tools, and process automation technologies.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and facilitation skills within a track record of driving cultural transformation and operational excellence.
• Ability to work cross‑functionally and influence stakeholders at all levels without direct authority.
• Proficiency in problem‑solving tools such as FMAIC, MEA, SPC, and root cause analysis.
• 2+ years in supplier quality, manufacturing quality, or a related role (experience in industrial HVAC, refrigeration, or data center cooling preferred).
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, experience with quality tools, and knowledge of ISO 9001.
• Strong analytical mindset with experience using 8D, RCA, CAPA, Six Sigma, or Lean methodologies.
• Ability to work effectively with internal teams and external suppliers to resolve issues and drive improvements.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Willingness to travel to supplier locations as needed (domestic and international).

Benefits

Health & Well‑being

• Day One
  • Competitive health, dental & vision insurance coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program
• After 90 days of continuous employment
  • Maternity Leave (12 weeks at 100% pay)
    • 8 weeks of short‑term disability leave paid at 100%
    • 4 weeks of paid parental leave paid at 100%
  • Paternity Leave (4 weeks at 100% pay)

Financial Benefits

• 401(k) Retirement plan and company paid match
• Life Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Short‑Term Disability (company paid)
• Long‑Term Disability

Work‑Life Balance

• Competitive time‑off policies
• Tuition Reimbursement

Modine is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Modine provides a competitive benefit package, which could include paid vacation, short‑term disability, 401(k), health, dental, vision, life insurance, flex spending benefits, tuition reimbursement, Health Savings Account and much more. Human Resources will provide more detail upon your hiring.

Modine provides a competitive benefit package, which could include paid vacation, short‑term disability, 401(k), health, dental, vision, life insurance, flex spending benefits, tuition reimbursement, Health Savings Account and much more. Human Resources will provide more detail upon your hiring.