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Continuous Improvement Engineering Specialist
Location: Brooklyn Park, MN (On-site)
Overview
A growing organization in the defense and manufacturing sector is seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineering Specialist to support operational excellence initiatives across the business. This role is ideal for a detail-oriented, analytical professional who enjoys problem-solving, driving efficiency, and partnering with cross-functional teams to implement sustainable improvements. The right candidate will bring energy, initiative, and a passion for developing processes that enhance overall performance.
Position Summary
The Continuous Improvement Specialist will identify inefficiencies, analyze existing processes, and lead efforts to streamline operations using structured problem-solving methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen. This role will partner with leaders and teams to improve productivity, reduce waste, enhance quality, and optimize workflows. Additionally, the specialist will lead RCCA (Root Cause & Corrective Action) activities and support the development and monitoring of KPIs to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, facilitate, and support continuous improvement initiatives across multiple departments.
- Analyze operational processes and performance data to identify opportunities for improvement.
- Apply Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and similar methodologies to solve problems and reduce inefficiencies.
- Lead RCCA (Root Cause & Corrective Action) discussions, ensuring effective identification of root causes and sustainable corrective actions.
- Implement, monitor, and report on Key Process Indicators (KPIs) to track performance outcomes.
- Collect, interpret, and present data to support process optimization and business decisions.
- Collaborate with leadership and frontline teams to implement new procedures and best practices.
- Track improvement project results and ensure long-term sustainability of implemented changes.
- Standardize processes and support development of documentation (SOPs, work instructions, visual aids).
- Support organizational change management efforts to ensure successful adoption of process improvements.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience in continuous improvement, process engineering, quality, or operations.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, including advanced Excel skills.
- Experience facilitating Root Cause & Corrective Action processes.
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams through change and improvement initiatives.
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
Desired Attributes
- Independent, self-motivated leader with strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize effectively.
- Comfortable working collaboratively and influencing others across the organization.
- Advocate for risk-based thinking and continuous improvement mindsets.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business, or a related discipline.
- Experience working within an ERP system.
- Background implementing continuous improvement methodologies in a manufacturing environment.
- ASQ Certification, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt, and/or ISO Internal Auditor Certification.
