Job Title: Continuous Improvement Engineer
Location: Waterloo, Iowa
Salary: $65-85K plus bonus
Job Summary of the Continuous Improvement Engineer: The Continuous Improvement Engineer is responsible for improving manufacturing and business processes using Lean principles, time studies, standard work, and structured problem solving. This role facilitates and drives improvements. This position serves as a cultural driver for continuous improvement and operational excellence will spend significant time on the production floor working with teams to implement practical improvements. This role requires a hands-on, team-oriented individual who works well with operators and supervisors and helps teams implement real, sustainable improvements. This position is expected to spend approximately 50–70% of time on the production floor and the remainder supporting improvement projects, data analysis, and standard work development.
Job Duties & Responsibilities of the Continuous Improvement Engineer:
1. Spend significant time on the production floor observing processes, identifying waste, and implementing improvements
2. Lead and support Lean and continuous improvement activities, including Kaizen events
3. Conducts time studies and assists in developing standard work, SOPs, and process documentation
4. Assist with structured problem solving and corrective actions (A3, 8D, root cause analysis, etc.)
5. Support workflow, layout, and efficiency improvement projects
6. Track and report continuous improvement projects and measurable results
7. Helps promote a culture of continuous improvement and practical problem solving throughout the organization
Education & Experience Requirements of the Continuous Improvement Engineer:
8. 3–5 years of experience in continuous improvement, manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, or a similar role
9. Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, or Process Engineering
10. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification preferred
11. Experience working in an ISO 9001 environment preferred
12. Experience working in a manufacturing environment supporting production, quality, engineering, or process improvement activities
13. Working knowledge of Lean manufacturing and structured problem-solving methods
14. Ability to observe processes, identify waste, and help implement practical improvements
15. Ability to conduct time studies and assist in developing standard work and SOPs
16. Strong communication skills and ability to work with all levels of the organization. Must be approachable, helpful, and able to build strong relationships with floor workers.
17. Ability to prioritize work based on business impact and manage multiple projects with minimal supervision