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Continuous Improvement Specialist (Fort Wayne, IN)
Summary
Ottenweller Company, Inc. is seeking a hands-on Continuous Improvement (CI) Specialist to support and improve our metal fabrication processes. This role combines shop-floor continuous improvement with ownership of standard operating procedures.
The ideal candidate has real manufacturing experience, is comfortable on the shop floor, and can turn improved processes into clear, usable, operator-friendly documentation.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Improve and standardize metal fabrication processes
Own creation and maintenance of standard operating procedures that are clear, concise, and operator-friendly
Document tack welding, robotic welding, finish welding, assembly, machining, forming, etc. processes
Identify and reduce process variation, rework, and inefficiencies
Support continuous improvement efforts to reduce and eliminate non-value-added time
Work closely with engineering, welding, quality, and production teams
Assist with root cause analysis and corrective actions related to process performance
Support new part launches and process changes
Own the development, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of standard operating procedures
Spend regular time on the shop floor observing processes and engaging with operators
Gather feedback from operators to improve both processes and documentation
Encourage operator involvement in process improvement and documentation
Identify gaps where documentation or process controls are missing or outdated
Support leadership initiatives focused on operational excellence
Performs other duties as assigned.
Education & Experience
High school diploma or GED required
Technical degree, associate degree, or equivalent manufacturing experience.
3+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably metal fabrication.
Hands-on experience supporting or leading continuous improvement, process standardization, or standard operating procedure development
Working knowledge of welding and assembly processes preferred.
Experience working directly with operators, supervisors, and engineers on the shop floor
Preferred Experience with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and standardized work instructions
An equivalent combination of education, training, and hands-on manufacturing experience will be considered in place of a formal degree.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Employee is occasionally required to lift up to 30#. When operating equipment employee may be required to lift up to 50#.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing 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 employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the office work environment is usually quiet. The noise level in the shop is usually loud.
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.
Ottenweller Company, Inc. is seeking a hands-on Continuous Improvement (CI) Specialist to support and improve our metal fabrication processes. This role combines shop-floor continuous improvement with ownership of standard operating procedures.
The ideal candidate has real manufacturing experience, is comfortable on the shop floor, and can turn improved processes into clear, usable, operator-friendly documentation.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Improve and standardize metal fabrication processes
Own creation and maintenance of standard operating procedures that are clear, concise, and operator-friendly
Document tack welding, robotic welding, finish welding, assembly, machining, forming, etc. processes
Identify and reduce process variation, rework, and inefficiencies
Support continuous improvement efforts to reduce and eliminate non-value-added time
Work closely with engineering, welding, quality, and production teams
Assist with root cause analysis and corrective actions related to process performance
Support new part launches and process changes
Own the development, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of standard operating procedures
Spend regular time on the shop floor observing processes and engaging with operators
Gather feedback from operators to improve both processes and documentation
Encourage operator involvement in process improvement and documentation
Identify gaps where documentation or process controls are missing or outdated
Support leadership initiatives focused on operational excellence
Performs other duties as assigned.
Education & Experience
High school diploma or GED required
Technical degree, associate degree, or equivalent manufacturing experience.
3+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably metal fabrication.
Hands-on experience supporting or leading continuous improvement, process standardization, or standard operating procedure development
Working knowledge of welding and assembly processes preferred.
Experience working directly with operators, supervisors, and engineers on the shop floor
Preferred Experience with lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, and standardized work instructions
An equivalent combination of education, training, and hands-on manufacturing experience will be considered in place of a formal degree.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Employee is occasionally required to lift up to 30#. When operating equipment employee may be required to lift up to 50#.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing 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 employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the office work environment is usually quiet. The noise level in the shop is usually loud.
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.
This is a non-management position
This is a full time position
Visit Careers at Ottenweller Company Inc.