Process Improvement Leader

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 a family business with 120 years of experience, tradition and know-how passed down from people with heart. Thanks to our 1,900 employees in eight plants in Canada and the United States, we are constantly innovating to exceed the expectations of both small and large appetites.

Position Summary

Reporting to the Business Unit Leader, you will play a key role in the continuous improvement of plant processes. You will lead high-impact improvement projects and actively contribute to operational performance. You will also serve as a trusted partner to operations and participate in the structuring and dissemination of process knowledge.

Responsibilities

You contribute to achieving the company’s objectives through the following actions:

Improvement Project Management

• 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.

Operations Support

• 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.

Process Knowledge Management

• 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.

Requirements

We are looking for someone with the following profile:

• Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• 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.

Why join Leclerc?

At Leclerc, we grow in an environment shaped by five core values: Authenticity, Respect, Innovation, Engagement, and Pleasure. These values guide the way we work and create a stimulating workplace where people can grow, contribute, and make a real impact.

• We invest in the development of our people – helping everyone grow and reach their full potential.
• We offer real career growth opportunities – within a strong, innovative, and growing company.
• We provide a dynamic and collaborative environment – where ideas are encouraged and continuous improvement is part of everyday work.
• We equip you with modern tools – to support your efficiency, autonomy, and impact.
• We foster a culture of respect and enjoyment at work – because collaboration is at the heart of our success.
• We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits program

Why join Leclerc?

At Leclerc, we live by our five core values: Authenticity, Respect, Innovation, Engagement, and Pleasure.

These values guide everything we do and create a unique work environment where you can thrive.

• We believe in developing our talent – because growth starts with authenticity and engagement.
• We provide career progression opportunities – in a respectful and supportive atmosphere.
• We offer a dynamic and stimulating environment – where innovation is encouraged and celebrated.
• We use innovative digital tools – to make your work easier and more impactful.
• We are an innovative and growing company – committed to continuous improvement and bold ideas.
• We foster a collaborative and respectful culture – because teamwork and pleasure at work matter.
• We offer a competitive salary and benefits package.