Job Dimensions
The Continuous Improvement Specialist will work closely with Operations, Quality, Engineering, Maintenance, and other departments to identify opportunities to improve safety, quality, productivity, efficiency and cost.
Major Activities & Key Challenges
Drive the execution of Howmet Business Systems (HBS) manufacturing principles and techniques that deliver productivity that meets or exceeds cost savings targets (as measured in DI system).
Utilize performance metrics monitoring, observation techniques, and data analysis tools to identify opportunities that close performance gaps via A3 thinking.
Facilitate successful kaizen and rapid improvement process events including the support required to sustain the improvements established during the events.
Coach and support operational leaders in meeting business improvement metrics and driving cultural change through the application of HBS methods and techniques with special focus in problem solving methods, tools, and strategies.
Support the development of visual tools utilizing digital automation as needed to upgrade the operating system and performance monitoring approaches.
Support continuous improvement initiatives throughout the manufacturing operation while working with production teams to identify process inefficiencies, bottlenecks, waste and opportunities for improvement.
Help develop and maintain process documentation, standard work instructions, process maps, and visual work aids.
Assist in measuring and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as productivity, scrap, downtime, quality, throughput, and labor efficiency.
Follow up on improvement projects to verify that changes are producing sustainable results.
Assist with time studies, process observations, and workflow analysis.
Support implementation of corrective and preventive actions.
Help facilitate improvement meetings and Kaizen events.
Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve workflow, increase capacity, and lower operating costs.
Perform other duties and projects as assigned.
Basic Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum 3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment/organization
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) which requires U.S. person status. ITAR defines U.S. person as an U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. 'Green Card Holder'), Political Asylee, or Refugee.
Ability to travel as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Manufacturing Technology from an accredited institution
Experience leading kaizen activities
Relevant certification recognition (Six Sigma, Lean, ASQ Certification, etc.)
Prior manufacturing experience
Experience with smart manufacturing technologies (historian, PLC data collection, MES, etc.)
Working knowledge of lean manufacturing and rapid improvement techniques