Continuous Improvement Engineer

Role details

Job Summary

The CI Engineer leads site-level measurable transactional and manufacturing process improvements initiatives using Lean & Six Sigma DMAIC and Design for Six Sigma methodologies to improve process capability, reduce variation, and eliminate waste. Acting as a change agent, this role applies Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to identify, analyze, and implement process improvements. Responsibilities include standardizing processes, replicating best practices, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in alignment with the Zeus Operating System (ZOS).

The role collaborates with teams at all levels to optimize operations, reduce waste, and build organizational capability to achieve business objectives.

Lead Projects: Deliver CI initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies to optimize manufacturing processes, reduce inefficiencies in manufacturing and transactional processes. Actively participate in improvements projects execution with a “hands on” approach

Facilitate Cross-Functional Improvement: Organize and lead Kaizen events, value stream mapping, and rapid problem-solving workshops across production, engineering, quality, supply chain, and maintenance.

Capability Building: Mentor, coach, and train team members in Strategic Problem Solving and Lean Six Sigma Principles and methodologies

Technical & Analytical Expertise: Apply Hypothesis testing, Regression, DOE, GR&R, SPC, and Process Capability analysis; leverage Minitab, Power BI, and Excel to validate results and ensure sustainability.

Sustainability: Ensure process improvements are maintained through control plans, standard work, and monitoring systems, with ongoing oversight and continuous refinement. Facilitate multi-site carry across activities for implemented improvements.

Support deployment of culture of operational excellence and Zeus Operating System

• Bachelor’s in Engineering or related field
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required/Black Belt highly preferred

Experience:

• 5\+ years of hands-on experience in continuous improvement, operational excellence, or related manufacturing leadership roles.
• Demonstrated success leading high-impact projects with measurable outcomes (cost savings, yield improvements, scrap reduction, OEE gains). Experience leading cross-functional initiatives is preferred.
• Skills and Competencies:

• Analytics & Problem Solving: Strong capability in root cause analysis, DOE, GR&R, SPC, and process capability; skilled at extracting insights from large datasets and converting them into actionable improvements.
• Data Visualization & Tools: Proficient in Minitab, Power BI, and Excel for statistical analysis, performance tracking, and presenting findings effectively to stakeholders.
• Project Leadership: Demonstrated success leading cross-functional teams from project definition through execution and control; expertise in scope, resource planning, milestone tracking, risk assessment, and cost control.
• Change Management & Sustainability: Proven ability to integrate improvements into daily operations through control plans, standard work, and cultural adoption, ensuring long-term results.
• Communication & Facilitation: Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills; comfortable engaging audiences from operators to executives; experienced in facilitating workshops, Kaizen events and leadership updates
• Leadership & Influence: Strong presence with the ability to coach, mentor, and drive cultural change while motivating teams to embrace structured problem solving and continuous improvement.
• Problem Solving Mindset is a must

Zeus Industrial Products, headquartered in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is the world’s leading polymer extrusion manufacturer and material science innovator. More than 50 years of experience in medical, aerospace, energy, automotive, fiber optics, and more allows us to set the bar high.

Zeus is a great place to work. Expectations are high; our work is meticulous and very precise. Zeus offers an opportunity to join a very successful, family-oriented team.

Our products are cutting-edge, our process is unique, and our quality and customer focus are second-to-none. We are a leader in our field and have great relationships with our customers and team members. Many of our team members are the best at what they do in the world.

Our customers are leaders in their fields. Our products help save lives.

Continuous Improvement is a way of life at Zeus. Successful candidates will have a desire and ability to take our manufacturing process to the next level. Expectations are high; our work is meticulous and very precise. You must possess the ability to work independently; and the desire to learn a variety of skills. The ability to communicate clearly is imperative, as is the ability to manipulate data using various software packages.

At Zeus, what we do matters, and we pride ourselves in “Turning polymers into possibilities.” Expectations are high; our products are cutting-edge, our process is unique, and our quality and customer focus are second-to-none.

Our employees and our customers are at the center of everything we do. Those relationships have been built on a foundation that is supported by our Mission and Vision:

Our Mission: Provide Solutions – Enable Innovation – Enhance Lives

Our Vision: Working Together – Doing It Better

Zeus is an exciting, innovative company that offers competitive pay and a great benefits package. As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we’re constantly in need of new ideas, new expertise, and new team members. Are you ready to join us? Content