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Continuous Improvement Leader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Continuous Improvement Leader Salary Range: $97K - $145K Location: Based full time on site in Rohnert Park, CA. Support required in Oak Harbor, WA and Kawaguchi, JPN. Approximately 25% travel ...

Supporting leaders and teams in applying lean tools to real operational challenges. , * Promoting a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. , * Sharing best practices internally ...

Supporting leaders and teams in applying lean tools to real operational challenges. , * Promoting a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. , * Sharing best practices internally ...

Continuous Improvement Leader

Hornell, NY · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Supporting leaders and teams in applying lean tools to real operational challenges. , * Promoting a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. , * Sharing best practices internally ...

Share knowledge with other Continuous Improvement Leaders and teams across the organization for support and continued update of the latest KOS enhancements and updates. * Drive breakthrough ...

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Continuous Improvement Leader information

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$31K

$104K

$144K

How much do continuous improvement leader jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 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 oversees initiatives to enhance processes, efficiency, and quality within an organization. They analyze workflows, implement best practices, and use tools like Lean or Six Sigma to drive ongoing improvements, often leading cross-functional teams and monitoring performance metrics.

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.

What is the career path for a continuous improvement manager?

A continuous improvement manager typically advances to senior management roles such as operations director or plant manager, or moves into specialized positions like process excellence director. Gaining certifications like Lean Six Sigma and developing leadership skills can facilitate career progression within manufacturing, healthcare, or service industries.

Is continuous improvement a good career?

A career as a Continuous Improvement Leader involves analyzing processes to enhance efficiency and quality within organizations. It often requires skills in data analysis, project management, and familiarity with methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma. This field offers opportunities for advancement and can be rewarding for those interested in operational excellence.
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What cities are hiring for Continuous Improvement Leader jobs? Cities with the most Continuous Improvement Leader job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Continuous Improvement Leader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Continuous Improvement Leader jobs are:
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, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,014 per year, or $50 per hour.
Continuous Improvement Leader

Continuous Improvement Leader

IDEX

Rohnert Park, CA • On-site

$97K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

If you're looking for a special place to build or grow your career, you've found it. Whether you're an experienced professional, a recent college graduate or somewhere in between, IDEX is a place where you can apply your existing skills and learn new ones in an environment where you can make an impact.

With interesting opportunities in engineering, marketing, sales, supply chain, operations, HR, finance, and more across more than 40 diverse businesses around the globe, chances are, we have something special for you.

Job Description: Continuous Improvement Leader

Salary Range: $97K - $145K

Location:

Based full time on site in Rohnert Park, CA. Support required in Oak Harbor, WA and Kawaguchi, JPN. Approximately 25% travel required.

Reports To:

Director of Strategic Operations and Continuous Improvement

FLSA Status:

Exempt

Job Type:

Full-Time

Position Summary

The Continuous Improvement Leader plays a critical role in driving continuous improvement and problem solving across the IDEX Health and Sciences organization focused on our Rohnert Park, CA, Oak Harbor, WA, and Kawaguchi, JPN facilities. This role leads initiatives focused on improving productivity and quality, reducing waste, and optimizing end-to-end processes. The ideal candidate is a hands-on, servant leader with deep expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and change management, capable of influencing teams and delivering measurable improvements in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead cross-functional teams to execute process improvement projects across manufacturing and commercial operations.
  • Train our workforce from frontline employees to leaders in CI methodologies and problem-solving techniques.
  • Facilitate kaizen events, root cause analysis, and value stream mapping to identify and eliminate inefficiencies.
  • Develop and implement a continuous improvement roadmap for site(s).
  • Serve as a key business partner and thought leader for the organization.
  • Support capital projects and new product introductions with process optimization strategies.
  • Champion a culture of safety, quality, and continuous learning throughout the organization.
QualificationsEducation & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field. Graduate-level acumen preferred (e.g. MBA).
  • Ten plus years of experience in manufacturing operations with a focus on continuous improvement. Tool and die, machining, and assembly experience is a plus.
  • Proven success in leading and guiding teams of professionals through change and CI initiatives in a plant or matrixed environment.
  • Significant experience in a matrixed organizational structure executing cross-functional initiatives.
Skills & Competencies
  • Expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, 5S, SMED, and other CI tools. Knowledge of financial modeling to establish value propositions using these tools.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with proficiency in data analysis tools (Excel, Power BI, Minitab).
  • Excellent facilitation, coaching, and ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence without direct authority. Train-the-trainer experience preferred.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to present to all levels of the organization.
Preferred Certifications
  • Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or related certification
  • PMP or Agile Project Management

Are you ready to join a different kind of company where our people, our culture, and our commitments are centered around providing trusted solutions that improve lives around the world?

Total Rewards

The compensation range for this position is $97,000.00 - $145,400.00, depending on experience. This position may be eligible for performance based bonus plan.

Benefits Package

Our comprehensive U.S. benefit offerings include: Health benefits, 401(k) retirement savings program with company match, PTO, and more. More information on our benefits and rewards can be found on our career page:https://www.idexcorp.com/careers/our-benefits-and-rewards/

IDEX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IDEX gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other consideration or protected category made unlawful by federal, state or local laws.

Attention Applicants: If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, please let us know.Likewise, if you are limited in the ability to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, we will determine an alternate way for you to apply. Please contact our Talent Acquisition Team at lfcareers@idexcorp.com for assistance with an accommodation. These contact tools may be used only by individuals with a disability for accommodation requests. Do not inquire as to the status of an application.

This posting is for an existing vacancy.Artificial intelligence is not used to screen, assess or select applicants.

IDEX logo

About IDEX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

IDEX Corporation is a global leader in fluid and metering technologies, providing a wide range of solutions for various industries. With a diverse portfolio of highly engineered products, IDEX serves customers in sectors such as healthcare, life sciences, food and beverage, water and wastewater, energy, and more. IDEX's innovative solutions help their customers optimize processes, enhance efficiency, and improve safety. IDEX's product offerings include precision fluid handling systems, pumps, valves, meters, dispensing equipment, and other specialty products. These technologies are designed to meet rigorous standards and deliver reliable performance in critical applications.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Lake Forest, IL, US

Year founded

1988

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