Senior Continuous Improvement Engineer - NORTHBROOK, ILLINOIS

ZipRecruiter; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Des Plaines, IL, is seeking a Senior CI Engineer to drive Lean implementation across the organization. This hands-on role involves leading transformation projects, facilitating training, and collaborating with teams to enhance performance. With a focus on continuous improvement, the engineer will monitor project metrics and deliver impactful results. The position offers opportunities for professional growth and a collaborative culture that values innovation.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Growth and professional development opportunities

Collaborative culture that values continuous improvement

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of experience in a Continuous Improvement or Lean-focused role.
• Proven application of Lean principles in a manufacturing, distribution, or service environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead Lean transformation projects from planning through implementation.
• Facilitate Kaizen events and ensure sustainment of results.
• Deliver in-person Lean training courses.

Skills

Lean methodologies

Project Management

Facilitation

Coaching

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree (Engineering or Related Technical Field)

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

The Senior CI Engineer is responsible for driving the implementation of Lean principles, tools, and systems throughout the organization. This hands-on role partners with cross-functional teams to identify improvement opportunities, lead Kaizen events, deliver Lean training, and manage end-to-end project execution to ensure sustainable performance improvements. This role is based in Des Plaines, IL, with the facility relocating to Northbrook, IL in March 2026. All applicants must be willing to travel as needed and commit to relocating with the company at that time.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Lean transformation projects with hands-on execution, from planning through implementation and follow-up.
• Facilitate Kaizen events and ensure sustainment of results through effective follow-up and coaching.
• Train teams in Lean methodologies such as 5S, Kanban, Value Stream Mapping, Visual Management, and Standard Work.
• Monitor Lean project metrics and maintain documentation including cost/benefit analysis and Kaizen performance.
• Provide input for Capital Expenditure requests and support organizational budget planning.
• Act as a technical expert on Lean tools and principles including A3 problem solving, setup reduction, and process optimization.
• Deliver in-person Lean training courses ranging from foundational principles to advanced problem-solving techniques.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to align improvement initiatives with business goals.
• Estimate time, staffing, and cost impacts to inform management decisions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree (Engineering or Related Technical Field)
• 5–7 years of experience in a Continuous Improvement or Lean-focused role.
• Proven application of Lean principles in a manufacturing, distribution, or service environment.
• Strong facilitation, coaching, and project management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and deliver measurable results.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills.
• Knowledge of advanced Lean methods (Shingijutsu experience a plus).
• Strong business acumen and organizational skills.

Qualifications:

• Experience estimating costs, staffing needs, and project ROI.
• Familiarity with Lean curriculum development and delivery.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to lead high-impact initiatives across the organization
• A collaborative culture that values continuous improvement
• Competitive salary and benefits
• Growth and professional development opportunities