Continuous Improvement Engineer

Job Description Nekoosa Continuous Improvement EngineerDrive process efficiency and operational excellence by leading and sustaining continuous improvement initiatives across the organization. Support a culture of safety, standardization, and data-driven decision-making to deliver measurable cost reductions, reduce waste, improve equipment performance, and strengthen quality systems through effective cross-functional collaboration.Organizational Development – 20%Safety & Standardization: Integrate safety considerations into all improvement initiatives while developing and sustaining standard work that ensures consistent, safe, and efficient operations.Continuous Improvement Culture: Strengthen a culture of continuous improvement by embedding data-driven problem-solving, visual management, and structured CI practices into daily operations.Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner effectively with Operations, Maintenance, Quality, Supply Chain, and Technology to drive adoption and sustain productivity improvements through clear communication, training, and performance tracking.Manufacturing Process Excellence– 60%Operational Performance & Cost Impact: Deliver measurable cost savings exceeding $300K annually by improving machine reliability, streamlining changeovers, reducing scrap, and implementing process improvements across coater and sheeting operations.Production Performance & Process Optimization: Drive manufacturing operations to exceed machine performance targets by enhancing efficiency, reducing scrap, and increasing throughput. Provide technical guidance to implement new processes, optimize existing operations, and support new product introductions while maintaining high product quality and customer satisfaction.Continuous Improvement & Problem SolvingLead process improvement initiatives by analyzing operational gaps, applying data-driven solutions, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to sustain efficiency gains, standardize best practices, and drive operational excellence.Continuous Improvement Tracking & Pipeline Management: Track and report the effectiveness of implemented process improvements, manage a CI project pipeline exceeding $750K to prioritize and monitor initiatives, identify further optimization opportunities, and ensure sustained operational gains.Operational Metrics and Project Leadership – 20%Performance Metrics & Team Engagement: Champion team understanding of key KPIs (safety, productivity, scrap rate, throughput, changeover times) through dashboards, visual aids, hands-on training, and daily team huddles. Leverage real-time data to guide decisions, support cross-functional collaboration, and implement process enhancements while engaging, mentoring, and developing the team.Project Execution: Complete all assigned projects on budget, on time, and deliver expected payback while complying with safety policies and company regulations.Best Practice Sharing: Facilitate the dissemination of successful process improvements and operational practices across teams, shifts, and sites to drive consistent performance and accelerate continuous improvement adoption.Required Qualifications:Education: Degree in engineering (Paper Science, Chemistry, Mechanical, Industrial), manufacturing, and/or a related technical field.Experience: Minimum of 3 years' experience in a manufacturing environment, with demonstrated exposure to Lean Manufacturing principles.Travel: The travel requirements of this position are up to 10%.Key Skills and Attributes:Leadership – Demonstrated leadership ability to guide teams, influence outcomes, and drive results in a manufacturing environment.Analytical Thinking – Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with data-driven approach to continuous improvement.Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure consistent quality and compliance across all production processes.Communication – Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effectively interacting with team members, suppliers, and senior management.Adaptability- Ability to quickly adapt processes to meet changing demands and production requirements.Proficiency with operational software, statistical tools (e.g. Minitab) and root cause analysis techniques.Strong computer skills, including advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (Excel is essential)Ability to lead cross functional teams through the CI process using tools such as 8D, Kaizen, 5 Whys, DMAIC, FMEA.We Can Offer You: Benefits are the game changer! We value our employee's health and happiness by providing new hires benefit eligibility on the 1st of the month following date of hire. Our benefits may include:Relocation assistance availableLow cost of living + stable manufacturing environmentHands-on engineering leadership opportunityHigh visibility role with direct plant impactCompetitive medical, dental, life, AD&D, and vision insurance plans.Generous annual time off allotment, including vacation (based on company service), parental leave, paid volunteer time, sick or emergency time, and 12 holidays.Tuition reimbursement (up to $5,250 per year), scholarships for dependents, monthly cell phone reimbursement, and annual steel toe and prescription safety glasses reimbursement.401(k), Employee Assistance Program (available to employees and their families), annual bonus program, referral bonus program (up to $1,750), STD, LTD, and much more!Who We Are: Nekoosa is the premier manufacturer of specialty print media, with a 60-year legacy of innovation. We offer an extensive portfolio of pressure sensitive films, waterproof synthetic paper, specialty print media, overlaminates, application tapes, and carbonless papers used to produce general-purpose signage; window, wall, and floor graphics; waterproof menus; cut lettering and decals; and multipart forms.Nekoosa has 6 locations across the U.S. and a partner, Fourbases, in Aalter, Belgium. Our expertise spans coating, converting, and custom plastic extrusion capabilities. We have built an energized culture focused on growth, employee development and market leadership. Our success is rooted in our people, and we are committed to promoting work/life balance and integration by investing significantly in employee-friendly policies and practices. Whether you are looking to start, make a change, or advance your career, find your path at Nekoosa, and leave your mark on the world.The Fine Print:A post-offer background check, and drug screen is required.Nekoosa provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact human resources at hr@nekoosa.com.