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Improvement Manager Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Scismic

Microbiology Manager

Springfield, MO · On-site

The Manager plays a critical role in driving performance, method integrity, and continuous improvement within a 365-day/year food testing laboratory, collaborating cross-functionally with Technical ...

Scismic

Microbiology Manager

Springfield, MO · On-site

The Manager plays a critical role in driving performance, method integrity, and continuous improvement within a 365-day/year food testing laboratory, collaborating cross-functionally with Technical ...

PATTERNS

Program Manager

Springfield, MO · On-site

Drive continuous improvement in program management practices. Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in business, Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred). * 8+ years of program/project ...

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Improvement Manager information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$37.3K

$81.3K

$119.1K

How much do improvement manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for improvement manager in Springfield, MO is $81,299.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $95,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an improvement manager do?

An Improvement Manager is responsible for identifying, planning, and implementing strategies to enhance business processes, efficiency, and performance within an organization. They analyze current workflows, identify areas for improvement, and lead projects to drive positive change. Improvement Managers often use methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement frameworks to achieve results, working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure successful implementation and lasting impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an improvement manager?

To thrive as an Improvement Manager, you need expertise in process analysis, project management, and data-driven decision-making, often supported by a degree in business, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies, as well as proficiency in tools like Microsoft Excel, project management software, and data visualization platforms, is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills help drive change and foster collaboration across teams. These skills are critical for identifying inefficiencies, implementing solutions, and ensuring sustainable organizational growth.

How does an improvement manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive organizational change?

Improvement Managers frequently work alongside cross-functional teams by facilitating workshops, gathering input from various departments, and aligning stakeholders on process changes. They act as a bridge between leadership and operational staff, ensuring everyone understands the objectives and benefits of proposed improvements. Regular communication, progress updates, and collaborative problem-solving are essential parts of the role, as they help address resistance and ensure smooth implementation of new initiatives.

What is the role of an improvement manager?

An improvement manager is responsible for analyzing business processes, identifying areas for efficiency gains, and implementing strategies to enhance performance. They often use tools like Lean or Six Sigma and collaborate with teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives. Strong analytical skills and project management experience are essential for this role.
Improvement Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Improvement Manager job openings in Springfield, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,299 per year, or $39.1 per hour.

Microbiology Manager

Scismic

Springfield, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Scismic is supporting the growth of an exciting global company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. We are looking for a Microbiology Manager in Springfield, MO USA. 

Position Summary

The Microbiology Manager leads the daily operations of the Microbiology Laboratory at the company's Springfield site, ensuring the highest standards of quality, compliance, and operational excellence. Reporting directly to the Laboratory Director, this role is responsible for supervising microbiology supervisors and operations leads, translating strategic objectives into actionable laboratory outcomes, and ensuring full compliance with internal standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., ISO, AOAC, FDA, USDA, SMEDP).

The Manager plays a critical role in driving performance, method integrity, and continuous improvement within a 365-day/year food testing laboratory, collaborating cross-functionally with Technical, Quality, Procurement, and Industrial Performance teams to support innovation and network initiatives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 
Leadership & People Development
  • Manage and mentor microbiology supervisors, leads, and analysts to achieve daily throughput, quality, and turnaround targets.
  • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and engagement through effective coaching, training, and performance management.
  • Oversee workforce planning, including scheduling, recruitment, onboarding, and retention in collaboration with Human Resources.
  • Ensure consistent alignment with company policies, Code of Conduct, and equal employment standards.

Operational Excellence
  • Translate site and corporate strategic goals into departmental action plans with measurable KPIs.
  • Oversee daily sample flow, workload balancing, and resource allocation to maintain turnaround time and client commitments.
  • Develop and maintain systems ensuring methodologies are properly implemented and validated per client and regulatory requirements.
  • Support new method implementation, technology integration, and scope expansion in coordination with network technical teams.
  • Oversee preventive maintenance, calibration, and qualification of laboratory equipment to ensure reliable performance.
Quality, Compliance & Audit Readiness
  • Ensure all microbiological testing complies with internal SOPs and external standards (ISO 17025, AOAC, USDA, FDA, SMEDP).
  • Review, interpret, and approve analytical data; verify that results meet quality and accuracy standards prior to release.
  • Lead corrective and preventive action (CAPA) implementation, ensuring root cause investigations and effective follow-up.
  • Serve as the primary contact for internal and external audits, demonstrating full readiness and documentation traceability.
  • Partner with Quality Assurance to drive continuous improvement initiatives and maintain robust documentation practices.
Communication & Collaboration
  • Partner closely with the Laboratory Director and network stakeholders to communicate departmental performance, challenges, and opportunities.
  • Collaborate with Technical, Quality, Procurement, and Industrial Performance teams on process optimization and cost-efficiency projects.
  • Provide technical support and consultative communication to internal and external clients regarding methods, data interpretation, and issue resolution.

Continuous Improvement & Strategic Contribution
  • Leverage performance data and metrics (efficiency, quality, capacity, OTD) to identify trends and implement process improvements.
  • Support the deployment of network-wide operational excellence initiatives and digital tools (e.g., LIMS enhancements, dashboards).
  • Maintain current knowledge in food microbiology and laboratory technologies through continuing education and peer engagement.
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Food Science, or related field required.
  • Master's or PhD in Microbiology or related discipline preferred.
Experience
  • Minimum of five (5) years in a microbiology laboratory environment, with at least two (2) years in a leadership or management role.
  • Demonstrated expertise in food microbiology methods and quality systems (ISO, AOAC, BAM, USDA, FDA).
  • Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams in a high-volume, regulated testing environment.
  • Experience managing audits and implementing CAPA, method validations, and operational improvements.
  • Proficiency with LIMS and standard office software (Google Suite, Microsoft Office).
  • Familiarity with diagnostic and rapid detection platforms such as BAX, GeneUP, VIDAS, VITEK, IQ, and Invisible Sentinel.
  • Strong preference for experience in the food testing or food manufacturing industry.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Deep understanding of laboratory performance metrics and data-driven decision-making.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills with attention to detail and urgency.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to influence cross-functional teams.
  • Sound judgment and problem-solving ability in balancing quality, cost, and efficiency.
  • Familiarity with business process improvement, Lean, or Six Sigma principles preferred.
  • Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced, multi-shift environment.
Physical and Travel Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in laboratory conditions with standard PPE.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods during lab operations.
  • Occasional travel up to 10-15% for meetings, audits, or training.
  • Ethical & Code of Conduct Responsibilities
  • The Microbiology Manager must operate at all times in compliance with Company Code of Conduct, promoting ethical behavior, client focus, and adherence to quality and safety standards.

$0 - $0 a year
Compensation Package Overview: 
Compensation Range: Salary is flexible and negotiable, depending on expertise and fit.
Potential bonus: Up to 10% based on performance.
Relocation Assistance Provided

Full Time Eligible Benefits Overview:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) package to support work-life balance following state and local ordinances.
- Optional 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions.

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