What are the responsibilities and job description for the Continuous Improvement Specialist position at Roskam Foods?
Roskam Foods
Position Title: Continuous Improvement Specialist
Reports to: Director of Continuous Improvement
Position Description and Purpose: Founded in 1923 and headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Roskam Foods is a leading contract manufacturer that partners with world-renowned food brands, retailers, and food service providers to produce a myriad of frozen, refrigerated and shelf-stable products. We’re a scaled, diversified operation with over 2 million square feet of manufacturing and 50 production lines across 8 facilities in the U.S. and Canada. We believe in the power of purpose-driven leadership to generate value for all. And we’re on a mission to optimize the potential of our people and brands. We are passionate about multiplying possibilities for our employees and our partners. And we are growing with some new and amazing customers!
We have an opening for a Continuous Improvement Specialist. In this role, you will be a key member of our continuous improvement team and will be responsible for driving and supporting improvement initiatives across various departments and functions within the organization. Reporting to the Continuous Improvement Director, you will play a crucial role in identifying opportunities for optimization, implementing improvement projects, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.
Come join the team that is reaching exponential potential by multiplying possibilities!
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Project Leadership: Lead and execute multiple continuous improvement projects from inception to completion, utilizing methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or Total Quality Management.
- Data Analysis: Utilize data analysis techniques to identify inefficiencies, analyze root causes, and quantify improvement opportunities.
- Process Optimization: Identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks in existing processes and workflows through data analysis, value stream mapping, and other continuous improvement methodologies.
- Change Management: Drive change initiatives by effectively communicating the need for improvement, gaining buy-in from stakeholders, and providing support and guidance throughout the implementation process.
- Training and Development: Provide training and coaching to employees at all levels on continuous improvement principles, methodologies, and tools.
- Performance Measurement: Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to measure the success of continuous improvement initiatives and track progress over time.
- Best Practice Sharing: Facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration among departments to disseminate best practices and lessons learned from successful improvement projects.
- Supplier and Customer Collaboration: Collaborate with suppliers and customers to identify opportunities for joint improvement initiatives and enhance value throughout the supply chain.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or other related field preferred.
- 7 years of experience in continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, or process optimization roles, with demonstrated success in leading improvement projects and driving tangible results.
- Proficiency in continuous improvement methodologies such as Kaizen, Six Sigma, Lean, or Total Quality Management.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex data sets and identify actionable insights.
- Effective project management skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage resources, and meet deadlines.
- Certification in continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma Black Belt, Lean Practitioner) is highly desirable.
- Experience in food manufacturing is a plus.
Roskam Foods offers a competitive compensation package including medical, dental and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, and a 401K plan with company match.
AAP/EEO Statement: Roskam Foods is a recognized veteran friendly and equal opportunity employer.