Continuous Improvement Process Specialist

Continuous Improvement Process SpecialistThis role works closely with the company Top Management to facilitate and support change that improves the Operating System at Deringer-Ney Inc. (DNI), our "DNIOS." As a Continuous Improvement Process (CIP) Team member, you will support continuous improvement and cultural alignment within DNI. The CIP Team will train fellow team members including new employees, facilitate Practical Problem Solving, manage the Improvement system, coach colleagues in 5S methodologies, and work in support of the Balanced Scorecard development and achievement.Supervisory Responsibilities: NoneDuties/Responsibilities:Facilitate Practical Problem Solving (PPS) sessions with cross-functional teams to reinforce the methodology, assist in identifying root causes, and coach the implementation and verification of corrective actionsEnsure that Pilot Hall areas—the first ones to test new DNIOS tools and approaches—remain in good standingTrain new and existing employees on DNIOS principles, tools, and expectationsCoach and mentor colleagues in 5S+1 methodology (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain + Safety) on the shop floorManage and maintain the company's Improvement system, including tracking, prioritizing, and following up on submitted ideasSupport development, tracking, and achievement of Balanced Scorecard metrics across departmentsPerform regular walks, audits, and assessments of the use of DNIOS tools, and coach those struggling to use the tools successfullyPartner with Top Management and department leads to identify improvement opportunities and drive change initiativesDocument standard work, process maps, and visual management toolsTrack and report on continuous improvement metrics within the CIP Team's scope, and coach other team members on the calculation and tracking of metricsAdditional DutiesDevelop and improve visual management boards, shift meeting templates, and communication centers on the production floorParticipate in cross-departmental teams to support broader operational initiatives, improvements, and problem solvingCommunicate with CIP Team colleagues at other DNI manufacturing locations to share lessons learned and ensure alignmentAssist with data collection and analysis for process improvement projectsSupport change management communication and reinforcement across shiftsEducational and Experience RequirementsHigh school diploma or equivalent required; Associate or Bachelor's degree is a plus but not requiredPrior manufacturing or production environment experience preferred (2+ years recommended)Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, 5S, or similar continuous improvement methodologies preferred; formal certification not required (training will be provided)Required Skills/Abilities :Willingness to complete internal DNIOS training program and other required coursework to become a certified trainerMust have computer proficiency (Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, and demonstrated ability to learn internal business systems)English writing skills are requiredStrong written and verbal English communication skills, with the ability to coach and train peers at all levelsDemonstrated problem-solving mindset and willingness to learn structured problem-solving tools (e.g., 5 Whys, fishbone diagrams)Highly organized and efficient work habitsContinuous improvement mindset with a curiosity to question normsAbility to develop and deliver training materialsComfortable working with Top Management to provide input and suggestions in support of organizational changePhysical Requirements:Ability to walk and stand for extended periods on the production floorAbility to lift up to 25–35 lbs occasionallyAbility to bend, stoop, reach, and move throughout a manufacturing environmentComfortable working in a plant setting with exposure to typical manufacturing conditions (noise, machinery, varying temperatures)Ability to use required personal protective equipment (PPE) as neededVisual acuity sufficient to review documents, data, and process details