Freelance Continuous Process Improvement Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summary:

FNA Group is a world class and leading manufacturer of consumer and industrial pressure washers and other outdoor power equipment. FNA's highly acclaimed brands include Simpson, Delco and CRX. Exclusive licenses with recognizable brands such as DeWalt, Stanley Black & Decker and Craftsman further strengthens FNA's market presence and awareness. FNA is a dynamic organization with unprecedented growth due largely to its ability to attract and retain highly talented associates.

We have a challenging and exciting opportunity for a Continuous Improvement / Process Engineer who is excited to implement efficiencies that will make a significant impact to the success of the organization.

Primary Purpose:

The Continuous Improvement / Process Engineer is responsible for driving operational excellence across manufacturing operations through the identification, development, and implementation of process improvement initiatives. This role utilizes Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Industrial Engineering methodologies to improve productivity, reduce waste, optimize manufacturing flow, enhance product quality, and improve overall operational performance.

The ideal candidate is hands-on, data-driven, and capable of successfully embedding Lean principles into daily operations, leadership behaviors, and team problem-solving activities. This position will work cross-functionally with production, quality, maintenance, engineering, and leadership teams to support continuous improvement initiatives and long-term operational goals.

Duties / Responsibilities:

Continuous Improvement & Lean Initiatives

• Lead and support Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma improvement projects from concept through implementation and sustainment.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, value stream mapping activities, root cause analysis, and standard work development.
• Drive measurable improvements in productivity, throughput, quality, safety, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Improve manufacturing flow, reduce waste, and optimize operational efficiency throughout production processes.
• Implement and sustain daily management systems, visual management tools, and leader standard work practices.
• Monitor and sustain improvements through KPI tracking, audits, documentation, and follow-up activities.
• Promote continuous improvement culture by sharing best practices and lessons learned across operations.

Manufacturing & Process Optimization

• Analyze production workflows, layouts, labor utilization, and manufacturing data to identify improvement opportunities.
• Develop and implement corrective actions for manufacturing, process, and quality-related issues.
• Create, revise, and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and process documentation.
• Partner with production, quality, engineering, and maintenance teams to improve operational performance and equipment effectiveness.
• Support defect reduction and built-in quality initiatives in collaboration with Quality Assurance teams.
• Assist with facility layout optimization, line balancing, capacity analysis, and workflow improvements.

Project Management

• Lead continuous improvement and capital improvement projects, including equipment upgrades, automation initiatives, and tooling enhancements.
• Develop project plans, timelines, resource requirements, and implementation schedules.
• Manage project deliverables, budgets, and progress updates while ensuring alignment with operational and business objectives.
• Present project status, results, and recommendations to plant leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Support implementation of new manufacturing technologies and operational best practices.

Leadership & Training

• Train and mentor employees on Lean Manufacturing principles, Six Sigma tools, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Coach leaders and teams on problem-solving techniques, accountability, and continuous improvement behaviors.
• Collaborate effectively across departments and influence operational improvements without direct authority.
• Support development of a culture focused on safety, accountability, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.

Required Skills / Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present information effectively at multiple organizational levels.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and PowerPoint.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in manufacturing, industrial engineering, continuous improvement, or process improvement environments.
• Experience facilitating Kaizen events and leading cross-functional improvement initiatives.

Preferred Experience:

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification.
• Experience with Minitab, Power BI, or similar data analysis and visualization tools.
• Working knowledge of ERP and MES systems.
• Experience in discrete manufacturing environments such as automotive, industrial equipment, consumer products, electronics, or related industries.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001, AS9100, or similar quality management systems.
• Prior experience leading operational change initiatives and influencing cross-functional teams.