Continuous Improvement Engineer

Company: Norgren
Location: University Park
Posted on: June 24, 2022

Job Description:

About us:Norgren is part of global engineering organization IMI plc. IMI is at the forefront of delivering the solutions we need in a changing world and is focused on creating tremendous value by solving key industry problems in attractive markets and working with the best. Norgren has a proud history of creating innovative engineering solutions in precise motion control and fluid technology, and we collaborate with our customers across more than 50 countries in critical areas such as Factory Automation, Material Handling, Rail, Energy, Process Control, Life Science and Commercial Vehicles.
Overview:This is a high energy, leadership position that requires a passion for Continuous Improvement and the ability to drive change. The primary purpose of this role is to lead and facilitate continuous improvement in all of the facilities core processes including Materials, Engineering, Operations, Quality and Maintenance. This is done through utilization of lean manufacturing principles, time studies and the application of other continuous improvement tools and methodologies.
Responsibilities:

• Establish and develop systems which reinforce and encourage data-based decisions to drive value stream enhancement and continuous improvement.
• Works across the organization to ensure consistent approach, format, data integrity, and decision processes are deployed and in use throughout the facility.
• Optimize manufacturing processes to attain product quality, efficiency, and process repeatability.
• Develop and implement through direct team leadership, continuous improvement initiatives resulting in productivity improvements through deployment of methodologies such as SMED, POKE-A-YOKE, KAN BAN, KAIZEN, PULL SYSTEM and others as appropriate.
• Analyze manufacturing responsibilities throughout the plant and work to improve them. Help drive/sustain a continuous improvement culture
• Drive visual management into all aspects of the manufacturing environment
• Establish new processes to eliminate waste and streamline flow and processes using lean methodologies
• Lead, coach, and mentor multiple improvement teams to affect rapid change.
• Create/measure/maintain processes for production business unit work centers on lean principles and link it to employee's everyday work.
• Work with executive and corporate staff in the development of strategic plans to further the performance of the business through the utilization of Continuous Improvement methodologies and tools.
• Act as a champion and leader in the development, implementation and sustaining of various continuous improvement projects and initiatives.
• Will provide weekly reports and conduct periodic presentations to UP and Norgren levels of management.
• Develop and facilitate improved relationships that encourage increased participation in the overall improvement process.
• Actively develops current state Value Stream Maps and works with staff to develop and implement future state Value Stream Maps that address and reduce the 7 wastes of Lean.
• Follows all safety guidelines including utilization of proper PPE.
• Demonstrates positive relations, leadership and teamwork as established in the IMI Way and Leadership Blueprint within the organization.
• Lead problem solving activities in manufacturing operations to quickly identify and permanently resolve quality and productivity issues.
• Train and develop employees ensuring adequate support and appropriate training is provided to advance their development within the organization.
• Change agent, driving culture change in a way that engages all employees positively.
• Other duties and projects as assigned.
  Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering 3 year of Experience of combined Continuous Improvement Implementation & Leadership in a manufacturing/operations environment
  • Demonstrated to have managed and led Kaizen events
  • Experience in developing various process documentation (SOP, ISO, etc.)
  • Experience in operational performance evaluation (Efficiency/Utilization)
  • Experience in implementing Continuous Improvement methodologies
    Certifications:
    • Lean/Six Sigma green or black belt
      Skills and Competencies:
      • Demonstrated Leadership experience in the coordinating and facilitation of successful continuous improvement teams.
      • Well versed in Lean Manufacturing techniques.
      • Demonstrated ability to understand complex situations and collect data to establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
      • Have advanced knowledge of the various quality systems tools and techniques (Advanced Problem Solving, APQP, etc.)
      • Possess proven project management skills.
      • Ability to effectively manage multiple projects/initiatives with budget limits and time constraints.
      • Strategic thinking skills, and the ability to effectively translate strategy into operating methodology and results.
      • Successfully interacted with cross-functional teams. Strong analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail.
        Computers and Technology:
        • Proficient with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, & Teams).
          What IMI can offer you:At IMI, one of our top priorities is to create an inclusive culture of health. We strive to remove barriers to care (whether that be physical or financial) and in doing so, we offer choice for all your health and wellbeing needs.
          See below for a general overview of our amazing perks and benefits:
          
          • Multiple health plans to choose from: HMO, PPO and High Deductible Health Plans with a low-cost share
          • Full suite of voluntary benefits to tap into, including but not limited to: Pet insurance, critical illness insurance, concierge services, legal insurance, commuter benefits (if applicable), and home & auto insurance.
          • Employer contribution for Health Savings Account, and in many cases free virtual telemedicine, and teletherapy.
          • Best-in-class 401K plan with zero vesting and up to 6% contribution matching.
          • Mental Health and wellness programs to support you and your family.
          • Short & long-term disability as well as basic life insurance at 2x your basic salary at no cost to the employee.
          • Free financial advisors, webinars, and classes through Charles Schwab.
            **Benefits plans change year over year, but we have guiding principles in place to ensure our employees have the tools and resources available to stay connected and up to date**
            Health & Safety:The physical demands described within the Key Duties & Responsibilities section of this job description are representative of those that must be met by all members of the workforce at IMI to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
            While performing the duties of this job, the individual is regularly required to be independently mobile. The individual is also required to frequently interact with a computer and communicate with colleagues. Contact your local HR representative to understand the Work Conditions and Physical requirements that may be specific to each role. Health, Safety, and Environmental Duties - All members of our workforce have the duty to ensure the health, safety and welfare of themselves, others, and the environment.
            Here at IMI, we value our workforce, our wellbeing, and our professional working environment. The Cardinal Rules for HSE have been designed to act as a guide for all:
            Take Personal Responsibility and Accountability for Collective Safety, Observe and Use Proper Lifting Techniques, Respect Machine Guarding Systems, Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Perform Hazardous Energy Control (Lock Out-Tag Out), and Operate Powered Industrial Vehicle Safety. These rules are designed to keep our employees safe and if not followed, can have serious consequences to you, your co-workers, and our business. All members of the workforce are expected to adhere to all safety policies and rules.
            Code of Ethics:Norgren requires the highest standard of ethics in all business dealings, particularly with customers, suppliers, advisors, employees and the authorities. In accordance with the IMI Way: Our Code of Responsible Business.
            Norgren is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or veteran status.

Keywords: Norgren, Joliet , Continuous Improvement Engineer, Engineering , University Park, Illinois