Continuous Improvement Specialist

About Lakeside Book Company

Lakeside Book Company is the largest book manufacturer in North America — and we love books. Every title we produce matters, and so does every hand that helps make it. Our people are at the heart of our success, and our mission is simple: Keep the world reading.

Continuous Improvement Specialist 2

Shift : Days 7am-3pm

Starting Pay: $26.85/hr - $33.25/hr

Additional Incentives:

• $100 Safety Shoe Reimbursement
• $100 Safety Glasses Reimbursement
• Company will provide all tools necessary
• 2 Weeks Vacation
• Training provided
  
  

Work Hours: Primarily day shift with the need to support off shifts and potential weekend if workload requires.

Location: Crawfordsville has 2 facilities: South Plant located at 600 State Road 32 West; North Plant located at 1009 Sloan Street.

As a Continuous Improvement Specialist, you will:

• Audit processes in order to identify opportunities for improvement
• Utilize analytical skills to review/create reports, make improvements, document processes, drive change
• Collaborate and consult within manufacturing cross functional team environment to identify and implement process changes. Changes designed to improve performance and meet stated continuous improvement goals.
• Organize, lead and facilitate various continuous improvement project deliverables such as meetings and report outs.
• Track performance and implement performance standards
• Work independently to drive continuous improvement processes while also working well when involved in team projects
  
  

Qualifications:

• Previous experience with organizing and leading continuous improvement efforts preferred
• Ability to communicate and work with cross functional teams at all levels of the organization
• Strong understanding of standardization and process mapping
• Experience using data analysis to drive process improvements
• Experience/knowledge regarding the concepts of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma and other Continuous Improvement methodologies.
• Solid computer skills, MS EXCEL, Visio, MS Word, MS PPT.
• Ability to learn, execute and train a variety of lean tools and skills.
  
  

At Lakeside Book, we value craftsmanship and collaboration by encouraging employees to improve their skills and capabilities. To that end, in addition to meeting the qualification requirements for this position, preference will be given to candidates who agree to participate in cross-training. This includes achieving qualified status within the position and assuming responsibility as a backup for lateral and progressive roles, as needed.

Discover What Makes Crawfordsville Special

With roots dating back to 1921, our Crawfordsville site is founded on over a century of craftsmanship, community pride, and long-term opportunities. As part of a leading industry organization, we are proud to be a local employer of choice.

Our team consists of approximately 850 dedicated and skilled employees who take pride in their work's impact around the world. Whether just starting your career or seeking a place to grow, we welcome individuals from all backgrounds and experiences.

Crawfordsville offers an excellent quality of life, whether you're a resident or considering relocation:

• Enjoy outdoor activities with nearby parks, trails, kayaking, and camping.
• Participate in local events like the Covered Bridge Festival, Strawberry Festival, and the Taste of Montgomery County.
• Explore cultural attractions such as the Rotary Jail Museum, Athens Arts Gallery, and various events at Wabash College.
  
  

We Give Back to Our Community: Community involvement is a core part of our identity.

• Our employees volunteer with local organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club, Early Learning Center, Youth Service Bureau, food pantries, and United Way.
• We are actively involved in the Chamber of Commerce, participating in local parades, ribbon cuttings, and networking events.
• We provide support through donations to schools and nonprofits and participate annually in leadership programs.
  
  

We prioritize the well-being of our team both within and outside the workplace:

• Safety is a core value, and we take pride in being recognized as a VPP Star Site (Voluntary Protection Program through IOSHA).
• Enjoy fun events like BBQs, pizza parties, and Family Day.
• We recognize achievements through service anniversaries, retirements, and apprenticeship graduations.
• Opportunities are available to join committees focused on Wellness, the Inclusion Council, and the Lakeside Club.
  
  

What Makes Crawfordsville Truly Stand Out?

With deep community ties and a history of employees staying for 25 years, Crawfordsville offers more than just a job—it’s a place to build a meaningful career and make a difference.

A Culture of Safety and Responsibility

At Lakeside Book Company, safety is more than a rule — it’s part of who we are. We’re committed to creating a workplace where every employee, visitor, and customer. That means staying alert, looking out for one another, and making smart, safe daily choices.

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

We’re also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. To request accommodation, please contact talent@lakesidebook.com.

Please note: This job posting outlines key responsibilities and expectations for the role. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.