The Continuous Improvement Specialist leads rapid problem-solving, process optimization, and process standardization to unlock value. The Continuous Improvement Specialist must be equally comfortable implementing tactical change on the shop floor and guiding strategy in the plant board room. This role is a unique opportunity to develop best-in-class lean operational practices at the leading meal kit company and build a high-skill, impact-led team in a fast-paced industry.

This role offers ample opportunities to grow and progress quickly in our rapidly expanding operations organization. The Continuous Improvement Specialist reports directly to the Continuous Improvement Manager. We invest heavily in our people at Home Chef, and we are looking for leaders who are effective and efficient, but also role models and mentors.

Identify, drive and implement process improvements

• Identify opportunities for improvement in processes, systems, and tools across all manufacturing departments, and create strategies to address them.
• Implement new processes or process changes by using Lean concepts and by training associates and obtaining proper feedback for best results. Work alongside CI Manager to create a plan to sustain.
• Coach associates when processes are not being correctly followed per SOP instructions. Escalate severe occurrences to supervisors when applicable.
• Have a great knowledge of standard key performance indicators to maximize daily output by comparing budget to expected output.
• Troubleshoot any process related issues by identifying root cause and performing thorough investigations to identify any process gaps.
• Perform time studies to obtain quantifiable information for process improvements and process implementations when applicable.
• Assist with approved Continuous Improvement projects by partnering with department managers to gather the correct amount of resources to accomplish the task at hand. Be sure to adhere to Lean concepts throughout the project and training.
• Partake and/or Lead Kaizen workshops regularly to get associates to buy into the improvements that are being introduced.
• Drive, implement, and sustain 5S standards in all areas of the facility.
• Ability to use Google Sheets and create sheets from scratch when needed.
• Monitor and report on the progress of continuous improvement initiatives to senior management and stakeholders.
• Develop and deliver training to employees on continuous improvement methodologies and best practices.
• Collaborate with suppliers and other external partners to identify and implement improvement initiatives.

Support day-to-day plant operations and production planning as needed: practices for all departments within the facility.

• Understand and hold all departments accountable for any standard key performance indicators to maximize daily output by comparing budget to expected output.
• Hold all departments accountable for all implemented Best Practices and SOP’s by performing audits while identifying other areas of improvement by compiling quantifiable data.
• Ability to fill in gaps in operations when needed
• Note that supporting day-to-day operations will sometimes require weekend work.

General Responsibilities:

• Uphold and maintain all Safety Standards
• Follow the facility GMP’s and help enforce them throughout the facility
• Support the efforts of the company to maintain our food safety system (SQF) and quality programs

Qualifications:

• Completion of a four-year degree program in a related field: Engineering (Ideally in chemical, industrial, or mechanical)
• 3 years of experience in an industrial continuous improvement role
• You are impact-driven first and foremost, and your passion is to make lasting change in partnership with the plant managers, department leaders, and employees.
• You have a strong interest in the meal kit industry and a passion for delivering the best possible products to our consumers
• Must be available to respond to work-related inquiries nights and weekends related to active projects
• You ideally have experience driving complex initiatives with multiple stakeholders across functions in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• You are comfortable in a plant environment, in refrigerated conditions below 40 degrees

Salary Range: $69,669 - $84,616

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $69,669.00 - $84,616.00 per year

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Application Question(s):

• When are you looking to start a new role ?
• What is your expected salary for the role?
• What is your email address?
• Are you comfortable with full-time onsite ?

Experience:

• Industrial continuous improvement: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Curtis Bay, MD 21226: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person