Plant Operations Leader: Lean, Safety & Continuous Improvement

Continental Group Sector ContiTech; Halstead (KS); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

ContiTech USA, Inc. is seeking an Operations Leader to drive plant performance in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

You will oversee department managers and operators, champion Lean initiatives, and partner with HR, Quality, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Finance to meet strategic goals in a high‑performance environment. The role emphasizes continuous improvement, cost reduction, and developing Value Stream Managers while maintaining strict safety and ISO/OSHA standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Business, Quality Management, Lean Specialist, or related field.
• 3+ years of operations management experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution and team development.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing tools and philosophies.
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required.
• Less than 10% travel may be required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate plant operations to achieve goals in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee engagement.
• Drive performance metrics aligned with corporate and regional KPIs.
• Champion Continuous Improvement using tools such as 5S, Standard Work, TPM, Heijunka, Visual Management, and others.
• Collaborate with HR, Quality, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Finance to ensure timely execution of objectives.
• Follow up on action items, and drive plant-wide accountability.
• Facilitate implementation of new processes, materials, and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Provide clear communication and conflict resolution across shifts while reinforcing a positive, change-ready culture.
• Coach and develop Value Stream Managers and support teams for optimal performance.
• Ensure compliance with ISO, OSHA, and company standards.

Skills

Leadership

Lean manufacturing

Process improvement

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Lean tools (5S, TPM, etc.)

Job description

ContiTech USA, Inc. is seeking an Operations Leader to drive plant performance in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

You will oversee department managers and operators, champion Lean initiatives, and partner with HR, Quality, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Finance to meet strategic goals in a high‑performance environment. The role emphasizes continuous improvement, cost reduction, and developing Value Stream Managers while maintaining strict safety and ISO/OSHA standards.