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Continuous Improvement Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Continuous Improvement Leader

Kent, WA · On-site

$115K - $198K/yr

Process Improvement Leadership: * Lead and facilitate continuous improvement initiatives across various departments and business functions. * Collaborate with leadership and teams to identify areas ...

The Continuous Improvement Leader will be responsible for leading the successful deployment of improvement projects aligned with the NBS Next initiatives. In this position the leader will engage with ...

Shuttlewagon, a Wabtec Company, is looking for a Continuous Improvement Leader that will be responsible to create, develop and sustain the Lean Initiatives for the business unit. This role will work ...

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How much do continuous improvement leader jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for continuous improvement leader in the United States is $104,014.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Continuous Improvement Leader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Continuous Improvement Leader, you need expertise in process optimization, data analysis, and project management, often supported by a degree in engineering or business and Lean Six Sigma certification. Familiarity with process mapping tools, statistical software, and ERP systems is typically required. Strong communication, leadership, and change management skills enable you to influence teams and drive organizational improvements. These abilities are essential for identifying inefficiencies, implementing sustainable changes, and achieving measurable business results.

What is the difference between Continuous Improvement Leader vs Process Improvement Specialist?

AspectContinuous Improvement LeaderProcess Improvement Specialist
CertificationsLean, Six Sigma, PMP (optional)Lean, Six Sigma Green/Black Belt
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles in manufacturing, healthcare, or service industriesOperational teams focusing on process analysis and optimization
Employer & Industry UsageOrganizations seeking strategic improvement initiativesDepartments implementing specific process improvements

The Continuous Improvement Leader typically oversees and drives strategic improvement projects across departments, requiring leadership and broader project management skills. In contrast, the Process Improvement Specialist focuses on analyzing and optimizing specific processes, often working hands-on with teams. Both roles often share certifications like Lean or Six Sigma but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How does a Continuous Improvement Leader typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive process enhancements?

A Continuous Improvement Leader regularly partners with cross-functional teams—including operations, quality, engineering, and supply chain—to identify inefficiencies and facilitate improvement initiatives. They often lead workshops such as Kaizen events, facilitate brainstorming sessions, and use data-driven analysis to align team efforts toward common goals. Effective collaboration involves not only guiding teams through Lean or Six Sigma methodologies, but also fostering open communication and building consensus for sustainable change. This collaborative approach helps ensure that process improvements are practical, widely adopted, and deliver measurable results.

How much does a continuous improvement specialist make?

A continuous improvement specialist typically earns between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Salaries can increase with certifications like Lean or Six Sigma and experience in process optimization and project management.

What does a continuous improvement leader do?

A continuous improvement leader is responsible for analyzing processes, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing strategies to enhance productivity and quality within an organization. They often use tools like Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen and collaborate with teams to foster a culture of ongoing improvement. This role typically requires strong problem-solving skills and project management experience.

What are Continuous Improvement Leaders?

Continuous Improvement Leaders are professionals who drive and manage initiatives to enhance processes, efficiency, and quality within an organization. They use methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies that reduce waste, improve productivity, and increase customer satisfaction. These leaders work closely with cross-functional teams to foster a culture of continuous improvement and ensure that best practices are adopted throughout the organization.

Is continuous improvement a good career?

A career as a Continuous Improvement Leader involves analyzing processes to enhance efficiency and quality within organizations, often requiring skills in data analysis, project management, and change management. It is a growing field with opportunities across various industries, and professionals often pursue certifications like Lean or Six Sigma to advance their careers.
More about Continuous Improvement Leader jobs
What cities are hiring for Continuous Improvement Leader jobs? Cities with the most Continuous Improvement Leader job openings:
What states have the most Continuous Improvement Leader jobs? States with the most job openings for Continuous Improvement Leader jobs include:
Infographic showing various Continuous Improvement Leader job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,014 per year, or $50 per hour.
Continuous Improvement Leader

Continuous Improvement Leader

Hexcel Corporation

Kent, WA • On-site

$115K - $198K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Hexcel rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advance composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs and additive manufactured parts. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices and R&T centers around the globe. Become a part of the “strength within.”

Hexcel is currently seeking a Continuous Improvement Leader for our Kent, WA, USA location, to lead and drive process optimization initiatives, enhancing efficiency, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organization. This individual will work closely with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for process enhancement, implement lean methodologies, and ensure that improvements align with organizational goals.

Summary pay range: $115,842 - $198,568 annual salary.

The selected individual will be responsible for but not limited to the following obligations:

  • Process Improvement Leadership:
    • Lead and facilitate continuous improvement initiatives across various departments and business functions.
    • Collaborate with leadership and teams to identify areas for process optimization and operational efficiency.
    • Develop and implement strategies to streamline processes, reduce waste, and enhance productivity.
  • Project Management:
    • Manage improvement projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet desired objectives.
    • Use data-driven methodologies (such as Six Sigma, Lean, Kaizen) to analyze and improve business processes.
    • Track and report project progress, outcomes, and savings to senior management.
  • Training and Coaching:
    • Educate and coach team members and leaders on continuous improvement principles, tools, and methodologies.
    • Provide training and support to teams to help them adopt a culture of continuous improvement.
    • Facilitate workshops, Kaizen events, and other initiatives to empower employees to contribute to process improvements.
  • Data Analysis and Reporting:
    • Analyze operational data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for improvement.
    • Prepare and present reports on improvement initiatives and results to senior leadership.
    • Utilize root cause analysis to address issues and improve long-term performance.
  • Change Management:
    • Lead change initiatives, ensuring smooth adoption of new processes and systems within teams.
    • Work closely with department heads to communicate and implement changes effectively.
    • Champion a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field with a Six Sigma or Lean certification.
  • A Master’s degree is a plus.
  • 7+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment; specifically in process improvement, operational excellence, or related roles preferably in highly regulated industry.
  • Proven experience with Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Strong project management skills with a track record of successful project delivery.
  • Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and identify trends.
  • Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficient in data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab, or other related software).
  • Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
  • Demonstrated ability to influence and lead teams through change.
  • Detail-oriented, proactive, and solution-focused.
  • Ability to drive results and create a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
     

At Hexcel, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
Hexcel also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Please note that the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Eligible candidates must be a:  U.S. citizen, U.S. national, person lawfully admitted for permanent residence, temporary resident under sections 210(a) or 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, person admitted in refugee status, or person granted asylum. Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry.

Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.


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