Process Improvement Technician

Standard Iron; Sauk Centre (MN); On-site; USD 30,307 - 46,838; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with employer match

Profit sharing

Paid holidays

PTO

Job summary

Standard Iron in Sauk Centre, MN is seeking a Process Improvement Technician to support Lean initiatives on the production floor. The role focuses on safety, quality, efficiency, and cost reduction through data-driven process improvements.

You will observe processes, conduct time studies, collaborate with operators and maintenance, and help implement standard work, 5S, and visual controls. 1–3 years in manufacturing preferred; high school diploma required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1–3 years in manufacturing, production, or technical support.
• Ability to work hands-on with hourly production staff.

Responsibilities

• Observe processes and collect performance data on the plant floor.
• Conduct time studies, workflow reviews, and basic process audits.
• Identify opportunities to improve safety, productivity, and quality.
• Support Lean initiatives including 5S, standard work, and visual controls.
• Assist with implementing and sustaining approved improvements.

Skills

Safety First mindset

Continuous improvement

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Team communication

Dependability

Willingness to learn

Project execution

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

AWS D1.1 knowledge

ABB knowledge

Fanuc knowledge

Welding knowledge

Job description

Join Our Team as a Process Improvement Technician at Standard Iron!

Are you ready to start a career with a company that’s been setting the standard in contract manufacturing for over 90 years? Standard Iron is looking for candidates who share our core values of Safety, Respect, Pride in Work, and Continuous Improvement. If you’re reliable, hardworking, and eager to learn, we want you to be a part of our team! The Process Improvement Technician is an hourly, hands‑on role responsible for supporting continuous improvement initiatives on the production floor. This position works closely with operators, maintenance, and leadership to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and cost through practical, data‑driven process improvements. A Safety‑First mindset and strong collaboration with hourly employees are essential for success in this role.

Why Standard Iron?

• Outstanding Benefits: Health, dental, vision, and life insurance, plus a 401(k) with employer match.
• Profit Sharing & More: Take advantage of quarterly profit‑sharing, short‑term disability, PTO, and paid holidays.

Available Shift:

• 1st Shift: Monday – Thursday, 6:00 am to 4:30 pm

Summary of Duties

• Observe production processes and collect performance data on the plant floor.
• Conduct time studies, workflow reviews, and basic process audits.
• Identify opportunities to improve safety, productivity, quality, and ergonomics.
• Support Lean initiatives including 5S, standard work, visual controls, and waste reduction.
• Assist with implementing and sustaining approved process improvements.
• Help create, update, and maintain standard work instructions and job aids.
• Participate in Kaizen events and cross‑functional improvement activities.
• Track and communicate basic performance metrics such as scrap, downtime, and cycle time.
• Perform duties on shop floor as assigned when no projects are tasked.
• Follow all safety rules and actively promote safe work practices.
• Travel may be required to support other facilities.

Key Competencies

• Safety First mindset – consistently prioritizes safety and proactively identifies hazards.
• Continuous improvement mindset.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Practical problem‑solving skills.
• Team‑oriented, respectful communication.
• Dependability and accountability.
• Willingness to learn and adapt.
• Ability to execute work effectively based on projects and priorities set by Production Supervisor.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 1–3 years of experience in manufacturing, production, or a technical support role.
• Ability to work hands‑on alongside hourly production employees.
• Basic math, measurement, and data‑recording skills.
• Ability to use basic computer tools (data entry, spreadsheets).
• AWS D1.1 knowledge.
• Welding knowledge.
• ABB and Fanuc knowledge.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Lean manufacturing concepts (5S, standard work, waste reduction).
• Previous participation in process improvement or Kaizen activities.
• Mechanical aptitude.
• Lean or Six Sigma Yellow Belt (or willingness to obtain).

Physical and Work Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and climb throughout the shift.
• Ability to lift up to 60 pounds occasionally.
• Regular presence in a manufacturing environment.
• Overtime may be required and is paid per company policy.

Additional Information

• This position is non‑exempt and eligible for overtime.
• This role does not include disciplinary authority.
• Performance is measured by safety adherence, process improvements, and teamwork.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to protected characteristics, focusing on skills, safety, and job‑related qualifications in our manufacturing operations.