Title: Continuous Improvement Process Specialist
Job Summary:
This role works closely with the company Top Management to facilitate and support change that improves the Operating System at Deringer-Ney Inc. (DNI), our “DNIOS.” As a Continuous Improvement Process (CIP) Team member, you will support continuous improvement and cultural alignment within DNI. The CIP Team will train fellow team members including new employees, facilitate Practical Problem Solving, manage the Improvement system, coach colleagues in 5S methodologies, and work in support of the Balanced Scorecard development and achievement.
Supervisory Responsibilities: None
Duties/Responsibilities:
- Facilitate Practical Problem Solving (PPS) sessions with cross-functional teams to reinforce the methodology, assist in identifying root causes, and coach the implementation and verification of corrective actions
- Ensure that Pilot Hall areas—the first ones to test new DNIOS tools and approaches—remain in good standing
- Train new and existing employees on DNIOS principles, tools, and expectations
- Coach and mentor colleagues in 5S+1 methodology (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain + Safety) on the shop floor
- Manage and maintain the company's Improvement system, including tracking, prioritizing, and following up on submitted ideas
- Support development, tracking, and achievement of Balanced Scorecard metrics across departments
- Perform regular walks, audits, and assessments of the use of DNIOS tools, and coach those struggling to use the tools successfully
- Partner with Top Management and department leads to identify improvement opportunities and drive change initiatives
- Document standard work, process maps, and visual management tools
- Track and report on continuous improvement metrics within the CIP Team’s scope, and coach other team members on the calculation and tracking of metrics
Additional Duties
- Develop and improve visual management boards, shift meeting templates, and communication centers on the production floor
- Participate in cross-departmental teams to support broader operational initiatives, improvements, and problem solving
- Communicate with CIP Team colleagues at other DNI manufacturing locations to share lessons learned and ensure alignment
- Assist with data collection and analysis for process improvement projects
- Support change management communication and reinforcement across shifts
Educational and Experience requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate or Bachelor’s degree is a plus but not required
- Prior manufacturing or production environment experience preferred (2+ years recommended)
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, 5S, or similar continuous improvement methodologies preferred; formal certification not required (training will be provided)
Required Skills/Abilities:
- Willingness to complete internal DNIOS training program and other required coursework to become a certified trainer
- Must have computer proficiency (Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, and demonstrated ability to learn internal business systems)
- English writing skills are required
- Strong written and verbal English communication skills, with the ability to coach and train peers at all levels
- Demonstrated problem-solving mindset and willingness to learn structured problem-solving tools (e.g., 5 Whys, fishbone diagrams)
- Highly organized and efficient work habits
- Continuous improvement mindset with a curiosity to question norms
- Ability to develop and deliver training materials
- Comfortable working with Top Management to provide input and suggestions in support of organizational change
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to walk and stand for extended periods on the production floor
- Ability to lift up to 25–35 lbs occasionally
- Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and move throughout a manufacturing environment
- Comfortable working in a plant setting with exposure to typical manufacturing conditions (noise, machinery, varying temperatures)
- Ability to use required personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed
- Visual acuity sufficient to review documents, data, and process details
