Continuous Improvement Engineer Intern Jobs in Portland, OR

Position Title: Continuous Improvement Engineer, EMS DivisionDepartment: OperationsReports to: VP and General Manager, EMS DivisionWage Range: $90,000-$110,000Position Summary:The Continuous Improvement Engineer, EMS Division is responsible for developing, standardizing, and advancing the Continuous Improvement strategy across the EMS Division. This role partners with site leadership to improve operational performance through Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, operational excellence, and digital transformation initiatives that increase productivity, improve quality, reduce cost, and enhance customer satisfaction.The position serves as the division's subject matter expert for Continuous Improvement methodologies, developing standardized processes, performance metrics, training programs, and best practices that can be implemented consistently across multiple manufacturing locations. This individual works closely with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Finance, and Program Management to build a culture of data-driven decision making and sustainable operational excellence.The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker who can also work hands-on with manufacturing teams to solve complex operational problems while creating scalable systems that improve business performance throughout the division.Principal Accountabilities:Continuous Improvement LeadershipDevelop and execute the EMS Division Continuous Improvement strategy aligned with business objectives. Lead strategic Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma initiatives across the division to improve productivity, quality, delivery, and cost performance. Identify opportunities to eliminate waste, reduce variation, and improve process capability throughout manufacturing operations. Establish standardized Continuous Improvement methodologies, tools, and governance across all EMS locations. Promote a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement throughout the organization. Lean Manufacturing & Operational ExcellenceLead Value Stream Mapping initiatives to optimize material and information flow. Facilitate Kaizen events, Rapid Improvement Events, and cross-functional workshops. Implement and standardize Lean tools including: 5S Standard Work Visual Management Daily Management Systems Gemba Walks SMED Error Proofing (Poka-Yoke) Flow Manufacturing Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, labor utilization studies, and workflow optimization. Improve factory layouts and material flow to maximize operational efficiency. Six Sigma & Problem SolvingLead complex problem-solving efforts using Lean Six Sigma methodologies including: DMAIC 5 Whys Fishbone Analysis Pareto Analysis FMEA Statistical Process Control Process Capability Analysis Partner with Quality and Engineering to reduce defects, improve First Pass Yield, and eliminate recurring issues. Support corrective and preventive action (CAPA) activities by ensuring sustainable solutions are implemented. Data Analytics & Digital TransformationDevelop standardized operational dashboards and KPI reporting across the EMS Division. Improve visibility into operational performance through real-time data collection and reporting systems. Partner with IT and business system teams to improve integration between ERP, MES, Quality, and Manufacturing systems. Utilize data analytics to identify trends, prioritize improvement opportunities, and measure business impact. Support digital transformation initiatives that improve operational visibility and decision making. Cross-Functional LeadershipLead cross-functional improvement initiatives involving Operations, Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Finance, and Program Management. Facilitate alignment between departments to improve business performance and remove organizational barriers. Support strategic operational initiatives identified by executive leadership. Share best practices across manufacturing locations and drive standardization where appropriate. Project ManagementManage multiple improvement projects simultaneously from concept through implementation and sustainment. Develop project charters, timelines, resource plans, and measurable success criteria. Build financial justifications including ROI, productivity improvements, labor savings, quality improvements, inventory reductions, and cost avoidance. Present project updates and business results to senior leadership. Ensure implemented improvements are sustained through audits, standard work, and performance monitoring. Training & Organizational DevelopmentDevelop and maintain division-wide Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement training materials. Coach leaders and employees in Lean principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and structured problem solving. Support the development of Green Belt and future Black Belt candidates. Build organizational capability by promoting employee involvement in Continuous Improvement activities. Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous learning.Qualifications & Experience:Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations Management, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Certified Six Sigma Black Belt with demonstrated success leading complex process improvement projects – or – Certified Green Belt with 5+ years of hands-on experience driving Lean, Six Sigma, or Lean Six Sigma initiatives. Experience within Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) or high-mix, low-volume contract manufacturing strongly preferred. Demonstrated success implementing Lean Manufacturing systems that produce measurable business results. Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Theory of Constraints, and Operational Excellence methodologies. Experience developing business intelligence dashboards and performance reporting systems. Strong understanding of ERP, MES, manufacturing analytics, and digital manufacturing technologies. Excellent facilitation, communication, coaching, and project management skills. Proven ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority. Advanced analytical and problem-solving capabilities with strong business acumen. Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Power BI, and data visualization tools preferred. *Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship*As part of our commitment to a safe and trustworthy workplace, Impact ES Vancouver conducts background checks on all final candidates. These checks may include verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and other relevant information, depending on the position.All background checks will be conducted in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).A candidate's background will not be used as the sole basis for disqualification unless it is determined to be directly related to the responsibilities of the position.