Client
Our client is a multi-million dollar, global, industry-leading thermal technology manufacturer with over 13,000 employees operating on 4 continents. For more than 100 years, they have served the Automotive, Truck, Off-Highway/Construction, and HVAC&R industries with cutting-edge customized heating and cooling solutions.
Summary
We are recruiting for a strategic and driven Continuous Improvement Manager to lead process optimization and operational excellence initiatives at our client’s manufacturing plant. Positioned independently from daily operations, this role will have broad influence across all manufacturing functions, driving transformational change. The Continuous Improvement Manager will develop and execute strategies to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance performance while fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.
Location
Dallas, TX.
Compensation
Compensation is competitive and includes 401K + Full Medical, Dental, & Vision + Bonus.
Key Responsibilities
Continuous Improvement Strategy & Execution:
- Lead the deployment of the Lean Management System (LMS), rooted in Daily Management and aligned with 80/20 improvement principles.
- Develop and execute a plant-wide continuous improvement roadmap that supports business goals and enhances operational efficiency.
- Create, maintain, and implement the site’s Ideal Value Stream Map (VSM) and associated transformation plan.
- Drive achievement of Customer TAKT time and 98%+ on-time delivery using tools such as material flow analysis, KANBAN, line balancing, kitting, tugger delivery, standard work, and scheduling boards.
- Develop and champion a “Lead One, Teach One” philosophy to build CI capability across the organization.
- Serve as subject matter expert on Lean practices and tools; develop and maintain a CI playbook/tool matrix.
- Lead Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen initiatives to reduce variability, improve product quality, and optimize manufacturing processes.
- Implement and oversee standard work, automation opportunities, and best practices for sustainable improvement.
- Collaborate with leadership, operations, engineering, and supply chain to identify, prioritize, and execute improvement initiatives.
- Train, mentor, and engage employees in CI methodologies to foster a culture of innovation and accountability.
Performance Measurement & Data-Driven Decision Making:
- Develop and implement a robust Daily Management System to track and communicate KPIs.
- Use data analytics, root cause analysis, and statistical process control to guide improvement efforts.
- Conduct Layered Process Audits to ensure process adherence and uncover further optimization opportunities.
Efficiency & Cost Reduction:
- Lead cost-reduction projects through value stream mapping, cycle time reduction, and process reengineering.
- Optimize material flow, inventory management, and resource allocation to increase throughput and reduce costs.
- Identify and implement opportunities to improve energy efficiency and sustainability within plant operations.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or a related technical field.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in continuous improvement, Lean manufacturing, or operational excellence within a manufacturing environment.
- Proven expertise in TPS, Lean, Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt preferred), Kaizen, and other process improvement methodologies.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, industrial engineering principles, and production systems—preferably in HVAC, refrigeration, or related industries.
- Hands-on experience with ERP/MES systems, data analytics tools, and process automation technologies.
- Demonstrated leadership, communication, and facilitation skills, with a track record of driving cultural transformation and operational excellence.
- Ability to work cross-functionally and influence stakeholders at all levels without direct authority.
- Proficiency in structured problem-solving tools such as DMAIC, FMEA, SPC, and root cause analysis.