Continuous Improvement Engineer (Manufacturing Operations)

Continuous Improvement Engineer (Manufacturing Operations)
Location: Petersburg, VA
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Compensation: Starting at $93,000+, based on experience

Role Overview

We are seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer to support operational performance within a manufacturing environment. This position plays a key role in driving process improvements, applying engineering and business principles, and promoting best practices across departments.

The individual in this role will collaborate with supervisors, department leaders, and plant management to enhance efficiency, reduce variation, and implement sustainable improvements. This is an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys problem-solving, data analysis, and leading change initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:
• Maintain and analyze performance data, identifying trends and opportunities for improvement

• Support department goal setting and contribute to achieving operational targets

• Lead and facilitate training sessions on continuous improvement tools, processes, and methodologies

• Coach employees on applying improvement strategies and participate in improvement events as needed

• Partner with cross-functional teams on initiatives related to audits, 5S, failure analysis, Six Sigma, and operational standards

• Identify recurring issues and implement solutions to reduce inefficiencies and process variation

• Assist in developing and executing annual improvement plans

• Support and coordinate capital improvement (CAPEX) projects and related initiatives

• Develop standards tied to improvement efforts and capital projects

• Contribute to daily operations by providing cost estimates and supporting project evaluations

• Offer guidance to departments on process optimization and system enhancements

• Support implementation and follow-up of internal communication and escalation processes

• Participate in safety-related initiatives and ensure adherence to workplace safety standards

Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Material Science, or a related field preferred

• 3–5 years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment

• Familiarity with production processes, standardization, and quality improvement methods

• Experience with process improvement tools such as Six Sigma, failure analysis, and 5S

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Ability to train, coach, and influence team members

• Effective communication, presentation, and organizational skills

Preferred Background:
• Experience in steel manufacturing or working with heavy industrial equipment

• Exposure to operations such as scrap processing, melting, casting, rolling, maintenance, or finishing

• Previous involvement in supervisory or facilitation roles

• Strong understanding of business systems and complex engineering processes

Why Consider This Role?

This position offers the opportunity to play a key role in improving manufacturing performance while working closely with leadership and cross-functional teams. Ideal for professionals who enjoy driving change, optimizing processes, and making a measurable impact on operations.