Continuous Improvement Lead

West Columbia, SC 29169

Employment Type: Permanent Job Category: Manufacturing / Process Engineering Job Number: 38631925 Compensation: $52000-58240 / year

Job Description

Job Posting: Continuous Improvement Lead
Location: West Columbia, SC
Shift: 1st Shift
Pay rate:$28-30/hr
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k Contributions, PTO

The Continuous Improvement Lead plays a critical role in implementing and enhancing Advanced Manufacturing (AM) systems on specific production lines. This position drives efficiency by establishing centerline definitions, developing standards, and implementing control strategies that enable operators to manage out-of-control situations effectively. The CI Lead spearheads root cause problem-solving efforts, targeting key chronic losses, and mentors teams in various improvement methodologies such as CIL, CLM, 5S, A3, and AOE systems. Close collaboration with Maintenance Leads and Process Owners ensures that daily and weekly strategies are developed to eliminate losses and improve overall operational performance.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Facilitate line loss analysis focused on waste elimination and yield improvement.
  • Lead transformation analysis, centerline definition, and standard development.
  • Analyze daily and shift line data to prioritize loss elimination opportunities.
  • Gather information on stops, centerlines, and changeovers for the past 24 hours.
  • Investigate the root cause of top stops and develop actionable plans.
  • Participate in Level 1 and Level 2 MDI meetings.
  • Establish countermeasures for top stops and ensure compliance with Centerline/CIL standards.
  • Provide training and manage the execution of Centerline and CIL Daily Management systems.
  • Collaborate with Process Owners and Maintenance Leads to address sporadic losses.
  • Lead Universal Problem Solving initiatives to eliminate chronic losses on the line.
  • Conduct and lead AM events, demonstrating expertise in CIL and Basic Problem Solving (6W, 2H).
  • Ensure qualification in Centerline Management System within one month and Green Belt certification within one year.
  • Comply with GMP, housekeeping guidelines, and QRMP operating procedures.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment is required, 5+ years in food manufacturing is preferred.
  • Proven experience leading continuous improvement projects with knowledge of Lean Manufacturing concepts.
  • Yellow or Green Belt certification is preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
  • Ability to develop and write management system documents, SOPs, and OPLs.
  • Strong planning, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Ability to coach and manage systems such as CIL, CLM, and 5S.
  • Capability to learn bakery technical systems like SAP, MII, Zeplin/Prisma, and other data collection systems.


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

Meet Your Recruiter

Alicia Alexander

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About West Columbia, SC

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore exciting job opportunities in and around West Columbia, South Carolina! Nestled beside the beautiful Congaree River, this charming town offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and modern amenities. With easy access to the vibrant arts scene at West Columbia's 701 Center for Contemporary Art or catching a show at the nearby Koger Center for the Arts in Columbia, there's no shortage of cultural experiences to enjoy. Indulge in delicious Southern cuisine at local hotspots like Carolina Strip Club and Motor Supply Co. Bistro, or unwind in nature at the scenic Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Join the thriving workforce in this dynamic region and discover why West Columbia is the perfect place to grow both personally and professionally. Start your job search today!