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Bodycote

Continuous Improvement Manager

Bodycote, North Clarendon, Vermont, United States

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Bodycote is the world’s largest provider of thermal processing services. We employ thousands of highly skilled staff around the globe, including some of the best engineers, scientists, and technicians in the industry.

Position Summary Based in Rutland, VT, the

Continuous Improvement Manager

serves as champion and will drive operational excellence by leading initiatives that enhance productivity, quality, and efficiency across manufacturing operations. Under the direction of the General Manager, the manager applies structured methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and root cause analysis to ensure sustainable gains in performance, cost reduction, elimination of waste and customer satisfaction—fueling long‑term growth and operational strength.

Essential Job Functions (Duties and Responsibilities)

Lead and sustain continuous improvement initiatives within the assigned production site, driving measurable gains in throughput, quality, flow, turn‑around‑time (TAT), and cost reduction.

Implement Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to eliminate waste, reduce variation, and improve process flow.

Partner with Plant Managers, Engineers, and Production Supervisors to identify process bottlenecks and deploy structured problem‑solving techniques (Root Cause Analysis, DMAIC, 5 Whys).

Plan, schedule, and facilitate kaizen events, value stream mapping sessions, and Gemba walks to engage teams and uncover improvement opportunities in both manufacturing and business processes.

Analyze data and process metrics to identify trends, bottlenecks, and opportunities for improvement.

Develop and standardize visual management systems, performance boards, and metrics dashboards to promote operational transparency.

Coach frontline teams and leaders on Lean tools such as 5S, SMED, standard work, and mistake‑proofing (poka‑yoke).

Collaborate with leadership to establish annual improvement goals and track progress against KPIs.

Champion a culture of continuous improvement by promoting employee engagement, idea generation, and recognition of process excellence.

Collaborate with Maintenance, Quality, and Supply Chain to optimize workflow, reduce downtime, and strengthen process reliability.

Communicate improvement outcomes, lessons learned, and best practices across the organization.

Practice and promote safety and good housekeeping.

Perform other tasks as assigned or dictated by position.

Ensure safe and responsible handling of customers’ inventory to prevent loss or damage.

Demonstrate punctuality, effective communication with coworkers, and compliance with rules and procedures.

Qualifications

Position must satisfy ITAR compliance requirements; candidates must be U.S. Citizens or Permanent Resident Cardholders.

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or related field (Master’s or MBA preferred).

5+ years of experience in process improvement, operations, or related roles.

Certification in Lean or Six Sigma (Green or Black Belt preferred).

Strong analytical, facilitation, and project management skills.

Proven ability to lead cross‑functional teams and influence without authority.

Excellent communication, collaboration, and presentation abilities.

Prefer working knowledge of metallurgy, temperatures, etc., and Power BI for actionable insights.

Demonstrated ability to read, write, and communicate in English.

Physical & Mental Demands

Work in a standing position for extended periods involving standing, bending, pulling, stooping, and reaching.

Lift up to 35 lb (15.4 kg).

May be exposed to heat, fumes, noise, and humidity.

Require cognitive and mental capacity to perform essential job functions.

Effective oral and written communication skills.

Visual acuity sufficient to read documents, computer screens, and files.

Adequate hearing for in‑person and phone communication.

Bodycote reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as needed. The job description does not constitute a written or implied contract for employment.

EEO Statement Bodycote is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against current and prospective employees based on race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age for individuals over forty years of age, military and veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state and local laws.

Additional Information Seniority level: Mid‑Senior Employment type: Full‑time Job function: Management and Manufacturing Industries: Metal Treatments

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