Continuous Improvement Program Manager

Latitude Corp.

We are looking for a Continuous Improvement Program Manager to join our 100% EMPLOYEE-OWNED team.

Latitude Corp. offers challenging and rewarding career opportunities in precision metal manufacturing where we make the impossible possible. We embrace problem solvers, creativity and innovation. With clean, climate-controlled facilities, we offer comfortable working environments. Our customers span a variety of industries, including US military and defense. We are proud of the work we do, and we believe that our employees are the key to our success. That's why we're committed to providing our team with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed.

Position Summary

We are seeking a Continuous Improvement Program Manager to drive operational excellence and efficiency across our production sites. This role leads Lean initiatives, Kaizen events, and process improvement projects to enhance productivity, quality, safety and cost performance. The ideal candidate will analyze production data, optimize workflows, implement best practices and coach teams on lean principles to foster a culture of continuous improvement. Hands-on manufacturing experience and a proven track record of measurable improvement in fast paced environments are essential.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

* Optimize production processes, minimize waste, and implement lean methodologies to enhance operational efficiency.

* Develop and execute continuous improvement strategies across multiple manufacturing locations.

* Lead and facilitate cross-functional Lean/Continuous Improvement teams, Kaizen events, and shop-floor workshops.

* Recommend and implement process, layout, and workflow changes to improve manufacturing performance.

* Track Lean/Continuous Improvement project outcomes, including cost savings, efficiency gains, and quality improvements.

* Serve as a change agent to promote a culture of continuous improvement and employee engagement.

* Develop and maintain a robust Lean/Continuous Improvement program with financial and operational metrics to measure impact.

* Apply lean manufacturing principles to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and reduce waste.

* Lead initiatives focused on manufacturing efficiency, quality, safety, and cost reduction.

* Facilitate Kaizen events, 5S activities, and process improvement workshops on the production floor.

* Evaluate current manufacturing processes to identify improvement opportunities and reduce waste.

* Analyze production data to detect trends, losses, and areas for improvement.

* Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess initiative effectiveness and adjust strategies as needed.

* Collaborate with Operations, Quality, and Finance teams to improve workflow and eliminate waste.

* Support corrective and preventive actions for manufacturing nonconformances and recurring issues.

* Train and coach managers, supervisors, engineers, and operators on Lean principles, tools, and problem-solving techniques.

* Support layout optimization, line balancing, setup reduction, and throughput improvement projects.

* Ensure improvements are standardized, documented, and sustained through procedures, training, and audits.

Minimum Job Requirements

* Ability to work regularly on the manufacturing floor observing processes and engaging with operators.

* Working Hours- full-time (40+ hours/week) employment.

* Proven experience driving measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and productivity.

* Ability to manage multiple improvement projects simultaneously in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

* Understanding manufacturing controls, work instructions, routings, and process documentation.

* Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with ERP/MRP systems, Epicor preferred.

* Ability to support shift-based operations, as needed.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

* Strong working knowledge of Lean manufacturing tools: Kaizen, 5S, standard work, value stream mapping, and waste elimination.

* Proficiency in root cause analysis methodologies (5 Whys, Fishbone, A3).

* Ability to analyze manufacturing data related to scrap, rework, downtime, OEE, throughput, and labor efficiency.

* Strong facilitation and collaboration skills for shop-floor Kaizen events and cross-functional teams.

* Leadership and influence capabilities

* Strong problem-solving, organizational, and project management skills.

* Effective written and verbal communication skills for all levels of the organization.

Education and Experience

* Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, Quality, or a related field required.

* 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, with direct involvement in continuous improvement, operations, or quality.

* Demonstrated experience leading Lean manufacturing initiatives in a production setting.

* Lean or Lean Six Sigma Certification required.

* Experience working within regulated manufacturing environments (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100) preferred.

* Hands-on experience with machining, fabrication, assembly, or similar manufacturing processes is a plus.

Why Should You Choose Latitude Corp?

• We are a rapidly growing employee-owned manufacturing company
• Growth Opportunities
• Training Available
• Weekly Pay
• Clean and Climate Controlled Work Environment
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• Company Paid Short-Term, and Long-Term Disability
• Work on products that support the US Military and National Defense
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan
• 401K Plan with 4% Company Match

Latitude Corp is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. This company considers candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Applicants can learn more about their rights by viewing the federal "EEO is the Law" poster and its supplement at http://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/ofccpost.htm.