Continuous Improvement Senior Specialist

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*Please note that candidates with Korean and/or Spanish language proficiency are being prioritized for this role*
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Job Purpose:

The Continuous Improvement Senior Specialist is responsible for leading and driving manufacturing innovation and workplace excellence through the implementation of 3R5S principles. This role plays a key part in transforming the manufacturing environment and culture through exceptional interpersonal and project management skills to drive cross-cultral engagement and sustainable change.
The successful candidate will need a strong background in automotive manufacturing, particularly in semi-automated production environments with large operator workforces. This role is critical in shaping a clean, efficient, and safe workplace culture through the implementation of 3R5S principles and continuous improvement practices.

Role And Responsibilities:

Initiate Manufacturing Innovation Activities with 3R5S

• Design and execute improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, safety, and visual control in a semi-automated automotive manufacturing environment
• Lead and sustain the implementation of 3R5S across all production areas
• Train, mentor, and engage employees at all levels--from operators to supervisors--to build ownership and accountability for 3R5S standards
• Conduct regular workplace audits, identify gaps, and develop corrective action plans to maintain compliance with 3R5S practices

Manufacturing Innovation

• Foster a proactive culture of continuous improvement, lean thinking, and visual management
• Drive the adoption of innovative manufacturing practices using Six Sigma, Lean, TPM, TQM, and other continuous improvement methodologies

Set and Monitor KPIs

• Manage and coordinate improvement projects involving cross-functional teams, with measurable KPIs and timelines

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Engineering, Operations, Production, and Quality teams to implement manufacturing innovation activities and foster collaboration in improving equipment reliability, safety, and productivity

Communication

• Communicate effectively across language and cultural barriers to align operational goals with shop floor execution
• Regular reporting on manufacturing innovation activities, progress, and results to senior management, providing actionable insights and recommendations to improve performance

Partnership with Departmental Leaders

• To develop long-term strategies for workplace excellence and employee engagement

Other job-related tasks as assigned

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in industrial engineering, manufacturing, operations management, or a related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience)
• Minimum 5 years of experience in automotive manufacturing environment, preferably involving semi-automated processes and 1,000+ operators
• Proven experience in initiating and leading manufacturing innovation activities from the ground up, ideally in an automotive or high-volume manufacturing environment
• Relevant certification in manufacturing innovation methodologies (Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, etc.)
• Prior experience in leadership roles within maintenance or operations management
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence cross-cultural teams and leadership
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities, drive change, and lead continuous improvement efforts
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)