Continuous Improvement Technician

Job Title: Continuous Improvement Technician/Coordinator

Job Description

The Continuous Improvement Technician supports manufacturing and production operations by evaluating existing processes, identifying opportunities for improvement, and implementing Lean and continuous improvement initiatives. This role combines hands-on work on the production floor with analytical problem-solving to drive efficiency, quality, and consistency across operations. The position is ideal for someone who is detail-oriented, self-motivated, and passionate about improving processes in a fast-paced manufacturing environment where the products directly impact people’s lives.

Responsibilities

• Identify opportunities for process improvements at all levels of the organization, with a strong presence on the production floor.
• Conduct data analysis, including cycle times and process mapping, to identify root causes of issues and develop solutions using Lean principles.
• Implement process changes and monitor results to ensure effectiveness, sustainability, and alignment with continuous improvement goals.
• Utilize problem-solving tools such as root cause analysis, 5S, and visual management to improve processes and enhance operational efficiency.
• Train and coach employees on continuous improvement methodologies to build a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.
• Participate in cross-functional teams to develop, coordinate, and implement process improvement projects.
• Maintain and update process documentation and standard work instructions to reflect current best practices and process changes.
• Conduct audits to ensure compliance with established processes and to identify further opportunities for improvement.
• Spend the majority of time on the production floor observing processes, mapping operator sequences, and making practical, hands-on suggestions.
• Design and support practical solutions, such as creating racking or shelving systems, to improve workflow and organization.
• Adapt to ambiguous and evolving processes, helping to define and structure workflows where procedures are not yet clearly established.

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Basic knowledge of Lean principles and continuous improvement concepts.
• Experience with problem-solving methodologies, including root cause analysis and other structured approaches.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement tools such as 5S and visual management.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to train and coach others on continuous improvement practices.
• Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, and Microsoft Teams.
• Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing setting.
• Willingness to work in an environment with ambiguity and limited existing structure, and to help define processes.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Associate degree is preferred.
• Kaizen experience is preferred.
• Prior experience in continuous improvement roles or projects is preferred.
• Experience conducting cycle time studies, process mapping, and sequencing of operator tasks.
• Comfort with building or assembling practical shop-floor solutions, such as racking or shelving systems.
• Strong aptitude and positive attitude toward learning, experimentation, and continuous improvement.

Work Environment

This role is primarily first shift, with some flexibility in start time as needed. The position is 100% on the production floor and is highly hands-on, focusing on observing processes, engaging with operators, and implementing practical improvements. The facility is recently remodeled, features a game room area, and maintains an extremely clean manufacturing environment. The organization designs and manufactures advanced head protection systems that help protect against serious and potentially life-threatening impact-related injuries, allowing wearers to focus on their mission in demanding situations such as combat, rescue, or adventure. The work environment is fast-paced and mission-driven, with a strong emphasis on thoughtful design, safety, and product performance. Processes are not always clearly defined, and there can be ambiguity and limited structure, offering significant opportunity for someone who enjoys building and refining processes from the ground up.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Cleveland, OH.

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $30.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Cleveland,OH.

This position is anticipated to close on May 21, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $25 - $30