Continuous Improvement Manager

Description

At IKG® we pride ourselves on being the leading manufacturer of safety flooring and access infrastructure in the US and Mexico, forging partnerships developed through our expertise in engineering applications and client experience. Our solutions have been implemented in a variety of industries and projects, from architectural structures to industrial walkways and access systems. Since 1902, IKG has maintained its position through a commitment to quality materials, advanced technologies, and exceptional customer service.

Position Overview:

The Continuous Improvement & Risk Manager is responsible for driving operational excellence, reducing organizational risk, and improving workplace safety across manufacturing operations. This role leads continuous improvement initiatives that increase productivity, reduce waste, enhance quality, and improve overall business performance while ensuring compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements. The Continuous Improvement, Safety & Risk Manager partners with plant leadership to foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and proactive risk management.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, throughput, waste reduction, quality improvement, and cost savings
• Analyze manufacturing processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and other continuous improvement methodologies
• Facilitate root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions for production, quality, and safety issues
• Develop, implement, and maintain workplace safety programs, policies, procedures, and training programs in compliance with OSHA and company standards
• Conduct safety audits, risk assessments, facility inspections, and incident investigations to identify hazards and reduce operational risk
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators related to safety, quality, production, downtime, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Partner with plant leadership and supervisors to establish standardized work practices and sustain process improvements
• Coordinate employee safety training, toolbox talks, and continuous improvement workshops
• Support regulatory compliance activities, documentation, inspections, and internal audits
• Develop and maintain risk management programs to minimize operational, safety, compliance, and operational risks
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve manufacturing processes, equipment utilization, and overall operational performance
• Prepare reports and presentations for leadership outlining safety performance, improvement initiatives, audit findings, and project results
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement throughout the organization
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Occupational Safety, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 3–7 years of experience in continuous improvement, operational excellence, safety, manufacturing, or process improvement
• Experience implementing Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, or other continuous improvement methodologies
• Knowledge of OSHA regulations, risk assessment methodologies, and workplace safety programs
• Experience conducting root cause analysis, incident investigations, and corrective action planning
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret operational data and performance metrics
• Experience developing standard operating procedures, work instructions, and process documentation
• Excellent communication, leadership, presentation, and project management skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Experience with ERP systems, manufacturing software, or business intelligence tools preferred
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-through
• Ability to build relationships and influence employees at all levels of the organization
• Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, and work throughout manufacturing facilities as needed
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds when required
• Comfortable working in industrial manufacturing environments with noise, dust, welding operations, and heavy equipment

FLSA Status: Exempt

Pay Scale: Salary

Reports To: Plant Manager

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed and is not intended to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities.

IKG is committed to equal employment opportunity. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.