Continuous Improvement Manager

Job Description:

Company Overview

Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW) is a Fortune 200 global manufacturing leader, founded in 1912, delivering specialized products and innovative solutions across diverse industries. With over $15.9 billion in revenue (2024), ITW operates with a decentralized business model focused on continuous improvement, operational excellence, and strong talent development across its global footprint.

Division Overview | ITW Specialty Films

ITW Specialty Films manufactures and markets specialized coated and metallized films used in Secure ID, Medical Specialty Bags, Financial Cards, Laminations, and Holographic applications. With multiple manufacturing facilities in the US, UK, and Germany, the division leverages core competencies in films, foils, holography, and laminates to meet complex customer needs.

ITW offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including medical plan options with FSA and HSA plans, dental, prescription drug, vision, 401(k) with a company match, life insurance, wellness programs, employee discounts, 12 paid holidays per year, vacation and sick time starting in year of hire, and a corporate matching gift program for charitable donations!  More information can be found here: https://myitwhr.com/

Position Summary

We are seeking a Continuous Improvement Manager - Manufacturing Excellence to play a key role in advancing our site’s operational performance at our Kalkaska, MI location. This high visible leadership role is responsible for driving continuous improvement, strengthening quality systems, enhancing equipment reliability, and building a culture rooted in ITW’s Business Model and 80/20 principles.

You will partner closely with Operations, Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality teams to deliver measurable results, improve processes, and develop scalable systems that support long-term success. This role is ideal for a hands-on, emerging leader who brings strong problem-solving skills, an operational mindset, and a passion for improving how work gets done.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence (40%)

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase throughput

• Develop and execute a site-level CI roadmap tied to business goals and performance metrics

• Drive root cause analysis, corrective actions, and data-driven decision making

• Implement standardized processes, KPIs, and visual management systems

• Partner with Operations and Engineering to improve process capability and equipment performance

• Support new product introduction through stage-gate processes, FMEAs, and control plans
• Identify equipment upgrades and prepare capital expenditure requests

Quality Systems Leadership (20%)

• Lead and strengthen site quality systems and processes

• Support audits (internal and external), corrective actions, and compliance initiatives

• Promote a culture of quality ownership and continuous learning

• Partner cross-functionally to improve product consistency and customer satisfaction

Maintenance & Equipment Reliability (20%)

• Provide leadership and direction to maintenance and engineering support teams

• Improve preventive and predictive maintenance systems

• Drive initiatives that reduce downtime and improve equipment reliability

Safety & Compliance (10%)

• Support and champion a safe, compliant, and proactive work environment

• Partner with site leadership on OSHA, EPA, and EHS initiatives

• Participate in incident investigations, risk assessments, and prevention strategies

Leadership & Culture (10%)

• Build, coach, and develop team members across CI, Quality, and Maintenance

• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

• Empower frontline teams with problem-solving tools and ownership mindset

• Align initiatives with broader divisional and enterprise priorities

QUALIFICATIONS 

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to successfully perform in this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, Industrial Technology, or related field

• 3+ years of experience in manufacturing, operations, engineering, or continuous improvement environments

• Demonstrated ability to analyze problems, identify root causes, and implement practical solutions

• Experience working in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing setting

• Strong communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally and interact effectively with internal teams and external customers

• Proficiency in data analysis, performance metrics, and Microsoft Office (Excel required)

• Ability to balance floor presence with strategic improvement work

Preferred

• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing or similar operational excellence methodologies

• Experience leading projects, lean events, or cross-functional improvement initiatives

• Understanding of quality systems, audits, or regulatory compliance

• Experience partnering with or supporting maintenance and reliability programs

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This role is based in a manufacturing facility and requires regular engagement on the production floor.

• Frequent interaction with production equipment, machinery, and active manufacturing processes

• Regular movement between office and production environments

• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety footwear

• Combination of standing, walking, observing processes, and computer-based work

• Requires visual focus and attention to detail when reviewing processes, equipment performance, and data

• Occasional lifting or light material handling may be required

• Work environment may include varying temperatures, noise levels, and industrial conditions typical of manufacturing sites

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues’ unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential. 

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.