Continuous Improvement & Training Coordinator (End Plant)

CI STRATEGY AND EXECUTION

• Coordinate, schedule, and lead high-impact Kaizen events and workshops focused on improving production processes in the Shell Press, Compound Liner, and Conversion Press areas.

• Implement and sustain core Lean methodologies, including 5S workplace organization, SMED (Single Minute Exchange of Dies) for quick changeovers, and Value Stream Mapping (VSM).

• Drive measurable improvements in key operational metrics, specifically focusing on increasing OEE/OLE, reducing scrap rates, and minimizing unplanned downtime.

• Champion the continuous improvement culture, ensuring implemented changes are sustained through effective control plans and documented Standard Work.

• Create visual management systems (dashboards, performance boards) to track and communicate CI project status and achieve savings across the plant.

TRAINING AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

• Design and deliver technical training modules for new hires in production and maintenance, ensuring a standard baseline of skill.

• Regularly audit the technical competencies of operators and supervisors; develop targeted training to address identified weaknesses.
• Create and manage a "Training Matrix" to track employee certifications and recertifications for specific machinery and processes.
• Spend significant time on the production floor providing "just-in-time" coaching to operators on standard work and problem-solving.

• Develop high-quality training materials, including visual aids, "One-Point Lessons" (OPLs), and video tutorials for complex machine adjustments.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS

• Manage and execute structured improvement projects utilizing the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology, acting as the project lead or co-lead.

• Facilitate cross-functional teams in deep-dive Root Cause Analysis (RCA) sessions (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams) to identify and eliminate systemic process failures.

• Utilize Statistical Process Control (SPC) data and other production metrics to identify the highest-impact waste streams (e.g., defects, overproduction, waiting) for targeting improvements.

DOCUMENTATION AND STANDARDIZATION

• Work with departmental leaders to audit existing SOPs and update them following successful CI events to institutionalize new, more efficient standards.

• Document and track all realized financial savings generated by CI projects and report progress against annual savings targets.

REQUIRED

• Education: High School Diploma or GED equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or Industrial Management preferred.
• Experience: 3 years of experience in Continuous Improvement or Technical Training within a high-speed manufacturing environment.
• Lean Toolkit: Proven experience with Lean tools (DMAIC, Kaizen, 5S, Root Cause Analysis, SMED).
• Software: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (specifically Excel and PowerPoint) and experience with LMS or ERP systems (SAP).
• 24/7 Operational Support: This role requires a commitment to a continuous shift rotation (including nights, weekends, and holidays).

PREFERRED

• 2-3 years of experience specifically facilitating training or Continuous Improvement (CI) projects in high-speed automated machinery, preferably in metal forming, packaging, or can manufacturing industry.
• Advanced proficiency in data analysis, including statistical software or advanced functions in Microsoft Excel/Minitab to interpret process data (Cpk, Hypothesis Testing).
• Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma Green Belt certification is a plus.
• Proven experience implementing and sustaining Lean tools (5S, VSM, Kaizen, SMED).
• Proven experience in curriculum development or adult learning principles in an industrial setting.
• Bilingual (English / Spanish) to effectively train a diverse workforce.

• Aptitude in spatial reasoning, attention to detail, and skilled craftsmanship.
• Mechanical aptitude and experience (work with machines and general tooling).
• Skilled in hand and power tool usage.
• Ability to operate heavy machinery.
• Ability to follow proper safety procedures.
• Use of precision measuring instruments.
• Working knowledge of all automation standard practices.
• Proactive and takes ownership to resolve problems and issues.
• Ability to work with employees from many different cultures and backgrounds.
• Strong organizational and planning skills and housekeeping standards.
• Ability to plan and execute major tasks.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written), including the ability to interact well with vendors, team members, staff, contractors, and others.
• Willing to participate in meetings and work with all teams.
• Demonstrate and initiate safe work practices.
• Self-starter, capable of self-supervision and willing to accept a variety of assignments.
• Ability to identify and implement process improvements or efficiencies leading to cost reductions.
• Strives to enhance the overall knowledge and performance level of self and others.
• A demonstrated experience where quick-thinking and problem solving plays a critical role.

• General knowledge of basic hardware and software and uses of a variety of different computer operating systems such as Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Google Workspace and web-site software.

The physical demands and work environment described below represent the activities and surroundings of the position(s). Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Works primarily in a warehouse/manufacturing facility. Daily contact with other departmental personnel. Occasionally works in all weather conditions, extreme temperatures, around chemicals and chemical fumes/emissions, dusty & clean environments. Frequently works with electrical and mechanical hazards. When working with surplus and scrap materials, will frequently be required to work outside and/or in an unaired conditioned warehouse. Continuous use of vision, hearing and speech. Frequent sitting, standing, walking and occasional bending. Will lift, carry, pull / push, and reach for supplies and on occasion lifting (up to 50 lbs.) while performing various aspects of the job. Will need to climb stairs, climb ladders, lift and move objects, requires manual dexterity and repetitive use of keyboard/computer devices/power tools/machining equipment; Wear safety equipment, such as earplugs, goggles, and steel-toed shoes.