Continuous Improvement Manager

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
 
As an innovation leader, we look for ambitious, forward thinking, open-minded and well-rounded individuals to join our global team. Located in our Siloam Springs, AR plant, you will be a Continuous Improvement Manager. This position is responsible 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:
 
Maintain and comply with GPS (Gates Production System) directives:  Includes collaborating with 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 management in establishing metrics and documentation that will monitor plant performance.
Facilitate 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 understanding and shepherd 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.
 
ABOUT YOU:
BS Degree: Mechanical/Manufacturing/Electrical or Industrial Engineering.
10 years manufacturing experience. Rubber products/manufacturing is a plus.
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt required
Experience a change management initiative with strong guidance 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 collaboration 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 conclusions 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.
PAY AND BENEFITS:
Full-Time/Part-Time/Contract
Bonus Eligible/SIP Eligible/Sign-On Eligible/Equity Eligible
Relocation is/is not provided  
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 (9 scheduled & 2 floating) + 8 sick days. All vacation days are accrued
401(k): 3% company contribution and additional 3% company match
Tuition Reimbursement  
 
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 your ownership of your work/life balance and more. Visit www.gates.com/careers 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 10 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.  
 
For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in Colorado, Gates is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation range is specific to the State of Colorado and takes into account various factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to the candidate’s relevant experience, qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role.
 
ARE YOU DRIVEN BY POSSIBILITY?