Continuous Improvement Manager
Poplar Bluff, MO 
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Posted 1 month ago
Job Description

Are you inspired by challenging the status quo? Do you thrive in collaborative environments that drive results? If so, Gates could be for you.

Gates is a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions. We push the boundaries of material science to engineer solutions that continually exceed customer expectations.

Let's simplify it, think belts and hoses. Found in motorcycles, conveyor belts, cars, tractors, blenders, vacuum cleaners, bicycles, & 3D printers just to name a few. Because why not do it all?

WHAT TO EXPECT

This position is responsible to build and drive a continuous improvement culture at the facility level. The Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager will use Lean and Six Sigma tools to develop, lead and implement projects which improve operational efficiency and deliver savings which improve our profitability, market position, and competitiveness. Must be able to guide and direct work for Engineers and technicians for critical defect reduction projects, key throughput improvement projects under GPS-1 & GPS-2 umbrella aimed at improving facility Flex Model metrics. Responsible for capital planning/budgeting and execution.

Key responsibilities (to name a few):

  • Maintain and comply with GPS directives: Includes leading engineering teams to complete lean six sigma projects, maintain current GPS documentation, and ensure all value streams comply with GPS reporting and showing improvements.
  • Work with Corporate GPS leadership in establishing metrics and documentation that will monitor plant performance.
  • Lead efforts to improve plant metrics in quality, safety, and productivity, utilizing Cross functional CI teams for root cause analysis for sustainable results.
  • Ensures optimum utilization of equipment and space by coordinating the layout of areas to accommodate the changing production requirements.
  • Coordinates capital projects for process enhancement and to improve internal and external customer satisfaction, conducting research and ensuring proper approvals
  • Develop and update Business unit production capacity analysis and lead efforts to close the gap between current vs True North.
  • Champion Root cause analysis and subsequent corrective actions for recurring Operations defects as well as Equipment downtime failures.
  • Mentor/Coach Engineering & CI Team to execute critical Plant projects to meet stated deliverables, within budget and on time with a key emphasis on developing solutions that are sustained.
  • Partner with Plant PDG/MDG & Corporate Engineering group to develop tangible innovative solutions to chronic manufacturing problems for short term as well as long term gains.
  • This position is responsible for directing work and guiding a team of Process Engineers, Industrial/CI Engineers, and technical personnel to achieve plant targets. Daily interaction and direction with team to ensure Gates Production Systems are maintained and followed.
  • Other duties may be assigned beyond the core functions listed below. This is a safety-sensitive position.

ABOUT YOU

  • 10 years manufacturing experience. Rubber products/manufacturing is a plus.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Electrical or Industrial Engineering preferred.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt preferred but not required.
  • Experience leading daily lean management initiatives.
  • Experience with developing and using Value Stream Maps to create Plant CI Roadmaps
  • Experience leading a change management initiative with strong leadership and communication skills.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office products. Intermediate to Advanced MS Excel & PowerPoint user.
  • Must be familiar with Minitab or other Statistical Software.
  • Knowledge and understanding of Quality tools including Process Flows, PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA/GRR, SPC, Process Capability Analysis, PPAP, APQP.
  • Strong Project management and cross functional team leadership skills must have basic cost accounting knowledge.
  • Solid background in TPM, Mistake Proofing, Fishbones, 5 Why, Process & Equipment troubleshooting.
  • Interpersonal skills: Ability to interact with various levels of the organization, build credibility and trust.
  • Understanding of the broader organization and how this role fits into the strategic plan and overall direction of Gates.
  • Take the initiative to look for and take advantage of opportunities and take independent actions and calculated risk.
  • Familiarity with drafting/Modeling programs including AutoCAD, ProE, SolidWorks/Inventor etc.
  • Ability to multi-task prioritizes, work under pressure, and make decisions independently.
  • Demonstrated experience managing and executing high value capital/Operational Excellence projects to meet specific deliverables within budget and on time.
  • General fabrication and design knowledge and familiarity with shop equipment.
  • Basic knowledge and understanding of Mechanical, Electrical, HVAC, PLC, hydraulic and pneumatic concepts.
  • Knowledge and background in Thermodynamics, Heat & Mass Transfer, and Engineering Materials is a plus.
  • Manufacturing equipment Mechanical/electrical design, interface, and integration experience is a plus.
  • Demonstrated understanding of regulatory environments/requirements.
  • Must have solid background in trouble shooting mechanical/electrical systems/equipment.
  • Bring focus, purpose, and agility to motivate others to adapt quickly to changing business needs.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship.

PAY & BENEFITS

  • Full-Time
  • Bonus Eligible
  • Medical, Dental, Vision insurance and other voluntary benefit options: benefits begin on the first day of the month immediately following your date of hire
  • Eligible for 3 weeks of paid vacation + 11 holidays + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued
  • 401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Learn more about the benefits we provide at

WHY GATES?

Founded in 1911 in Denver, Colorado, Gates is publicly traded on the NYSE. While we might operate in a vast amount of time zones we operate as 'One Gates' and have a common goal of pushing the boundaries of materials science. We invest in our people, bringing real-world experience that enables us to solve our customers' diverse challenges of today and anticipate those of tomorrow.

While we expect the best, we also want to give you the best. That's why at Gates we provide an environment where people can succeed from our policy of 'Dress for your Day' (yes - that means you can wear jeans), health club reimbursement, to our ownership of your work/life balance and more. Visit to learn more.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

At Gates, we believe that we are better together. Proximity has been important to our success over the years as there are critical items that are simply better when done together. One of those critical items is efficient collaboration. We cannot underestimate the power of informal conversations and connecting face-to-face with our coworkers.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands and fingers to work with objects, tools, or controls; and use office equipment including computers, telephones, and/or copiers/scanners. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 30 pounds.

Gates is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other consideration defined by law.

ARE YOU DRIVEN BY POSSIBILITY?

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Gates Corporation is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees.  Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of gender, race, color, religion, age, disability, pregnancy, citizenship, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status or any other protected class defined by state or local law.

 

Job Summary
Start Date
As soon as possible
Employment Term and Type
Regular, Full Time
Required Education
Bachelor's Degree
Required Experience
10+ years
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