Continuous Improvement Leader

Description

Continuous Improvement Leader 

Full-time | Permanent 

Salaried | $97k - $145k 

*We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role.

About Us:

Vander-Bend is a U.S.-based manufacturer dedicated to building the precision infrastructure that powers tomorrow’s AI. Our expertise in server racking and power delivery solutions provides the backbone for next-generation data centers, enabling hyperscalers and integrators to innovate and scale globally. With a focus on trusted, domestic manufacturing, we deliver quality, speed, and innovation at scale—redefining AI infrastructure for the future.

We are a newly created division of Vantedge Medical, the premier metals-based med-tech solutions partner from concept to full-scale manufacturing. With a steadfast commitment to advancing technology, we take immense pride in the work we do – and have a lot of fun doing it."

About this Opportunity: 

The Continuous Improvement Leader is responsible for improving the overall operational performance of the Stockton facilities through process optimization, Lean Manufacturing, project leadership, and Operational Excellence. This role partners with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Production Control to identify opportunities, eliminate inefficiencies, standardize processes, improve material flow, and implement sustainable business improvements. The CI Leader drives measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, productivity, capacity, and cost while helping develop a culture of continuous improvement and problem-solving throughout the organization.

Responsibilities:

• Lead cross-functional continuous improvement initiatives that improve safety, quality, delivery, cost, productivity, and employee engagement.
• Champion the use of Lean Manufacturing, Operational Excellence, and continuous improvement methodologies including Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, Visual Management, 5S, SMED, Pull Systems, A3 Problem Solving, PDCA, and Root Cause Analysis.
• Identify, prioritize, and execute improvement projects that increase manufacturing capacity, reduce lead time, eliminate waste, and improve operational performance.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, Rapid Improvement Workshops, and problem-solving activities while ensuring measurable results and long-term sustainment.
• Facilitate cross-functional improvement projects with Manufacturing Engineering to improve machine utilization, workflow, throughput, and operational performance.
• Develop, implement, and maintain standardized work, visual work instructions, best practices, and process documentation to improve consistency and reduce variation.
• Analyze operational data and key performance indicators to identify trends, bottlenecks, and improvement opportunities, and present recommendations to site leadership.
• Lead manufacturing process improvement projects including workflow optimization, line balancing, workstation design, and manufacturing layout improvements.
• Improve material flow throughout the facility by reducing transportation, waiting, motion, and inventory waste while optimizing point-of-use inventory and replenishment systems.
• Support operational readiness activities associated with new equipment, production line transfers, facility expansions, and new product introductions.
• Partner with Manufacturing Engineering to improve automation performance, machine utilization, throughput, and unattended operation where applicable.
• Facilitate continuous improvement projects with Maintenance to reduce equipment downtime, improve preventive maintenance effectiveness, and increase overall equipment availability.
• Facilitate root cause investigations using structured problem-solving methodologies including A3, 5 Why, Fishbone, Pareto Analysis, 8D, and PDCA.
• Develop and maintain visual management systems including KPI boards, daily management boards, production dashboards, and other visual controls that support operational decision-making.
• Lead employee engagement initiatives that encourage idea generation, continuous improvement participation, and a culture of operational excellence.
• Develop project plans, timelines, milestones, and implementation strategies for continuous improvement initiatives while effectively communicating progress to leadership.
• Measure, validate, and report project results, including productivity improvements, quality improvements, lead time reduction, capacity gains, and documented cost savings.
• Partner with Finance to validate realized cost savings and maintain continuous improvement project tracking.
• Train, mentor, and coach employees and leaders at all levels on Lean principles, problem-solving techniques, continuous improvement methodologies, and change management.
• Audit implemented improvements to ensure standard work is followed, improvements are sustained, and expected business results continue to be achieved.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Industrial Engineering or similar with applicable experience is required.
• Lean, SixSigma, and/or Project Management certification strongly preferred
• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment
• 3 years directly involved in lean/CI leadership
• Experience leading cross-functional projects
• Experience with ERP and manufacturing reporting systems (Infor Visual, Power BI, Excel)
• Demonstrated history of implementing measurable operational improvements
• Strong problem-solving skills. 
• Excellent facilitation, communication, and change management skills.
• Strong leadership skills – directly and indirectly.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability with proficiency in tools like A3 thinking, 8D, and root cause analysis.
• High energy, self-motivated, and results-oriented.
• Experience working in a metal fabrication or contract manufacturing environment is highly desirable.
• Ability to work in a team environment. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and SmartSheet required.
• Working knowledge of ISO and FDA regulations.
• Experience in sheet metal fabrication, automation, or contract manufacturing strongly is a plus
• Some lifting, 50lbs or less, may be needed less than 25% of the time.