Continuous Improvement Specialist

Continuous Improvement SpecialistAbout Us Looking for more than just a job? At Thompson Machinery, we’ve been powering progress since 1944. We are the go-to Caterpillar dealer for Middle and West Tennessee and North Mississippi. Come join a team where our mission is simple: deliver smart solutions, build lasting partnerships, strengthen the communities we call home and invest in your growth.  What You Will Do The Continuous Improvement Specialist is a highly competent process manager responsible for using Lean Six Sigma principles to drive continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence throughout the dealership. This role serves teams as an analyst, facilitator, coach, trainer, and project manager and is involved in planning, scheduling, and implementing continuous improvement activities. This position is available in the Nashville metropolitan area, the Memphis area and the Tupelo, Mississippi area.Responsibilities Clearly defining program objectives and scopeEvaluating and prioritizing potential improvements based on gains and required effortSecuring employee commitment (ex: process managers) for proactive change managementEstablishing a clear and well-articulated implementation planAppropriately implementing principles of governanceIdentifying intervention priorities and indicatorsConducting detailed analysis of the current situation that accurately describes the issuesSpecifying deliverables, outcome indicators, and performance-measured indicatorsIdentifying available resources (for example, people, material, and finances)Mapping out in detail the desired situationAccurately analyzing options including impact and feasibilitySpecifying obstacles and ways to overcome them through continuous improvementRegularly monitoring the implementation of solutions to achieve objectives and expected benefitsIdentify opportunities for process improvement, waste removal, and cost reductionAnalyze data and use value stream mapping to vision and transform current processes and procedures towards a new future stateLead the planning and execution of Kaizens and other Lean transformation initiatives focused on safely eliminating waste, stabilizing processes, and improving quality and productivityBuild cross-functional relationships within the value stream to build trust and gain the privilege of challenging the current stateTeach, lead, and coach cross-functional teams on Lean Six Sigma tools and methodologyServe as a champion for change by influencing and guiding teams to better understanding and adoption of lean principles and Plan-Do-Check-Act methodology, ultimately fostering a culture of change and servant leadershipWhat We Expect Of You We all have different backgrounds, yet we all use our unique contributions to provide the highest quality of service. Basic Qualifications: Associate’s or Bachelor's Degree in Business, Engineering or a related discipline Strong communication, facilitation, and project management skills with the ability to speak effectively with various audiences3-5 years of experience in practicing LEAN methodologiesStrong demonstrated project management experienceExperience with heavy machinery/equipment within a service-focused operation preferredLean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a plusMicrosoft Power Platform (Power Automate and Power Apps) preferredHard Skills:Continuous Improvement6SLean Six SigmaRoot Cause AnalysisValue Stream MappingProficiency in commonly used and specialized softwareStrong working knowledge of Microsoft Suite, including advanced skills with ExcelDemonstrated ability to work in high paced and changing environmentsWhat’s In It For You At Thompson Machinery, we believe that great benefits are more than just perks— they’re essential for employee well-being and success. We’ve designed a benefits package that goes beyond the ordinary, ensuring that our team members thrive both personally and professionally. Here’s an overview of our benefits, including some that set us apart from our competitors. The Basics Various medical plan options, including a no-cost option Vision and dental insurance Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability insurance Employer-paid basic life insurance 401k matching Profit Sharing 8 paid holidays annually Initially up to 15 days of Paid Time Off annually with increase after five years of service Employee Assistance Program (EAP)   What Sets Us Apart Competitive pay  Exposure to world-class CAT training and development  Tuition Reimbursement  Tool Purchase Assistance to buy high-quality tools at deep discounts  Annual stipend toward the purchase of work boots  Company Incentive Bonus Program  Paid Veteran holiday annually to all service members  Training and Development programs  Work uniforms and professional cleaning services  Financial Wellness programs   Thompson Machinery offers competitive salaries and a complete benefits package. Compensation for this position will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and background. Thompson Machinery is an equal opportunity employer: Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled.