What are the responsibilities and job description for the Continuous Improvement / Industrial Engineer position at 180 Engineering?
Continuous Improvement Engineer (Direct hire)
Location – Lexington, VA
Annual Salary Range: $80,000 - $98,000 base salary. Individual salaries are based on education, geographic location, and alignment to the market data.
Summary for Continuous Improvement Engineer
The ideal candidate for Industrial Engineer will Drive continuous improvement and efficiency across manufacturing processes using lean principles and CI methodologies. You will improve safety, reduce waste, mentor operations, and implement sustainable improvements in a dynamic, tech-forward environment. Flexible to support off-shift projects and willing to go the extra mile to ensure project deliverables.
Responsibilities for Continuous Improvement Engineer
- Lead and facilitate lean CI initiatives (Kaizen, 5S, SMED, VSM, TPM, 8 wastes), including planning, execution, and sustainment
- Conduct time studies, value stream mapping, capacity analysis, and cycle time/line balance studies to optimize throughput
- Support implementation of Daily management system- which includes developing and updating Tier board papers every month or given interval. Coach operations and support function teams on using the Tier boards and upkeeping of them
- Design and implement ergonomic material handling, optimized layouts, and workstations to streamline flow and promote safety
- Perform data collection from shop floor and summarize in actionable insights for process improvements
- Develop, document, and maintain standard work, SOPs, visual controls, and daily Tier board systems
- Use data-driven approaches to monitor KPIs (OEE, lead time, changeover time, inventory, safety incidents), root-cause analysis, and corrective action
- Partner with cross-functional teams—operations, maintenance, quality, engineering—to plan and implement CI projects, ensuring knowledge transfer
- Champion Lean culture: mentor staff, coach on CI tools, lead training sessions and audits
- Propose and manage capital investments for CI initiatives; support automation/technology solutions
- Maintain a relentless focus on safety, promoting behavior-based programs and compliance
- Create AutoCAD layout scenarios for process improvements/facility upkeeping projects
- Provide flexible support for off-shift projects and demonstrate commitment to achieving project deliverables by going above and beyond when required.
Requirements for Continuous Improvement Engineer
- BS/MS in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical, Manufacturing, or equivalent engineering field.
- Lean Six Sigma certification (GB/BB) or equivalent CI qualification preferred
- Deep expertise in Lean tools: VSM, 5S, Kaizen, SMED, TPM, PDCA, one-piece flow
- Strong analytical skills: time studies, root cause, data literacy (Excel, Minitab, Power BI)
- Experienced in CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and ERP/MES systems
- Ergonomic design, production layout optimization, and automation solution awareness
- 3 years in manufacturing/production environments implementing CI strategies
- Skilled in leading Kaizen events, executing improvements, leading cross-functional teams
- Exceptional project management, communication, and leadership capabilities—able to influence at all levels
- Committed to workplace safety and building a culture of continuous learning
- Prefer background in metal fabrication (laser, welding, assembly), low-volume/high-mix
- Familiarity with SAP, MS Project, MES, ERP, and automation project coordination
Benefits for Continuous Improvement Engineer
- Competitive health, dental & vision insurance coverage
- Employee Assistance Program
- Maternity Leave
- Paternity Leave
- 401k Retirement plan and company paid match
- Life Insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Short Term Disability (company paid)
- Long Term Disability
- Competitive time-off policies
- Tuition Reimbursement
Salary : $80,000 - $95,000