Lean Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Position Title: Continuous Improvement Technician Department: Continuous Improvement Reports to: Continuous Improvement Engineer Wage Range: $27-$33 Position Summary: The Continuous Improvement Technician supports the Continuous Improvement Engineer in driving initiatives that improve operational efficiency, quality, delivery performance, and cost effectiveness through continuous improvement methodologies and digital transformation tools.This role is well-suited for recent graduates and early-career professionals looking to build hands-on experience in continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and operational excellence within an electronics manufacturing environment.This role focuses on supporting the implementation of process improvements centered on safety, quality, delivery, and cost across manufacturing and support operations within a fast-paced electronic manufacturing environment. The position also provides opportunities for professional growth through increasing ownership of improvement projects, cross-functional collaboration, data analysis, and leadership development within continuous improvement and operational excellence initiatives.The ideal candidate is a proactive problem solver and an influential team player with strong analytical skills, hands-on production support experience, and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a dynamic environment. Successful candidates will demonstrate a willingness to expand technical expertise, contribute to larger-scale improvement strategies, and grow into more advanced continuous improvement and operational leadership responsibilities over time.Principal Accountabilities: Support implementation of process improvements focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost.Assist in coordinating improvement activities across cross-functional departments.Support lean manufacturing initiatives, Kaizen events, and activities led by the CI Engineer. Participate in root cause investigations, corrective actions, and process improvement initiatives. Help identify opportunities to reduce manufacturing waste and improve process efficiency. Support 5S and visual workplace initiatives throughout production and facility areas.Assist with time studies, line balancing, and workflow analysis.Assist with creation of charts, reports, and presentations for CI projects and management reviews.Assist with tracking continuous improvement project actions, timelines, and implementation status.Support updates to process documentation across departments. Ensure it aligns with the current practices and identify opportunities for improvement based on observations and subject matter expert collaboration.Collaborate closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, Production, Test Engineering, Materials, and Operations teams.Support sustainment of Lean manufacturing standards and a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.Pursue relentless reduction of wasteQualifications & Experience:Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field; equivalent work experience considered.This position is designed as an early-career opportunity. Candidates with 1–5 years of relevant experience are encouraged to apply.Basic understanding of Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.Experience in electronics manufacturing, PCBA assembly, manufacturing operations, continuous improvement, or related environments. Relevant internships, co-ops, academic projects, and hands-on manufacturing experience will be considered.Experience working in a fast-paced production environment preferred.Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and basic data analysis.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.