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Problem Solving Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Join a collaborative environment that values creative problem-solving, mentorship, and strong team engagement. * Work in a position that blends design thinking with technical execution, giving you ...

The primary responsibility of this role is leading plnning and problem-solving efforts in pre-production trial activity. Utilizing and improving systems & procedures for efficient and effective issue ...

The primary responsibility of this role is leading plnning and problem-solving efforts in pre-production trial activity. Utilizing and improving systems & procedures for efficient and effective issue ...

The primary responsibility of this role is leading plnning and problem-solving efforts in pre-production trial activity. Utilizing and improving systems & procedures for efficient and effective issue ...

Strategic Test-Taking & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching reference handbook navigation, multi-step engineering problem solving, and time management for FE Civil examination. Guides students ...

Strategic Test-Taking & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching reference handbook navigation, multi-step engineering problem solving, and time management for FE Civil examination. Guides students ...

Strategic Test-Taking & Problem-Solving: Skilled at teaching reference handbook navigation, multi-step engineering problem solving, and time management for FE Civil examination. Guides students ...

Quality Engineer

Wilmington, NC

$67K - $86K/yr

Critical thinking, problem solving skills and high mechanical aptitude are a must. Responsibilities * Identify and execute continuous improvement projects (focused on reduction of internal and ...

Showing results 21-40

Problem Solving information

See North Carolina salary details

$18.6K

$40.5K

$69.6K

How much do problem solving jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for problem solving in North Carolina is $40,450.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28,223.00 and $42,915.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is problem solving in a professional context?

Problem solving in a professional context refers to the process of identifying challenges or obstacles and finding effective solutions to address them. It typically involves analyzing the root cause of an issue, brainstorming possible options, evaluating alternatives, and implementing the best solution. Strong problem-solving skills are highly valued by employers because they enable individuals and teams to overcome setbacks and improve efficiency. This competency is essential in nearly every industry and job role, helping organizations adapt and thrive in a changing environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a problem solver, and why are they important?

To excel as a professional problem solver, you need strong analytical thinking, critical reasoning, and a relevant educational background in your field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, process improvement methodologies (such as Six Sigma), and project management systems is often essential. Creativity, effective communication, and adaptability are important soft skills that help in generating solutions and collaborating with stakeholders. These abilities enable you to identify root causes, propose actionable solutions, and drive successful outcomes in complex business environments.

How does a problem-solving specialist typically collaborate with other departments to address organizational challenges?

Problem-solving specialists often work closely with teams across various departments, acting as facilitators during cross-functional meetings to identify root causes of issues and develop actionable solutions. Collaboration is key, as they must gather insights from subject matter experts, coordinate with project managers, and communicate recommendations to leadership. Building trust and maintaining open communication channels are essential for ensuring that solutions are both practical and effectively implemented. This collaborative approach not only enhances the specialist's understanding of the organization but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Problem Solving vs Data Analyst?

AspectProblem SolvingData Analyst
Required CredentialsVaries; often no formal certificationBachelor's degree in data science, statistics, or related field
Work EnvironmentAcross industries, often in team settingsCorporate, finance, marketing, or tech sectors
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in problem-solving roles across many industriesCommon in data-driven roles within various industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding problem-solving skills vs data analysisComparing problem-solving skills with data analysis expertise

Problem Solving involves identifying and resolving issues across various contexts, often requiring critical thinking and creativity. Data Analysts focus on interpreting data to inform business decisions, requiring analytical skills and technical knowledge. While both roles require strong problem-solving abilities, Data Analysts specialize in data interpretation and analysis, making their skill sets complementary but distinct.

What are the most commonly searched types of Problem Solving jobs in North Carolina? The most popular types of Problem Solving jobs in North Carolina are:
What are popular job titles related to Problem Solving jobs in North Carolina? For Problem Solving jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Problem Solving jobs in North Carolina look for? The top searched job categories for Problem Solving jobs in North Carolina are:
What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Problem Solving jobs? Cities in North Carolina with the most Problem Solving job openings:
Infographic showing various Problem Solving job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,450 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Senior Continuous Improvement Engineer

Kennametal, Inc.

Asheboro, NC

$71K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Kennametal rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

319th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.


Job Title: 
Senior Continuous Improvement Engineer

Location: Asheboro, NC

Job Summary:

The Operational Excellence Sr. Engineer leads complex continuous improvement initiatives and solves critical operational challenges using Lean methodologies, structured problem solving, and data-driven decision making across one or multiple plants. This role drives sustainable performance improvements, develops Lean capabilities within plant teams, and serves as a coach and advisor to support long-term operational excellence.

Key Job Responsibilities:

 

Lean COMPETENCES

  • Leads complex problem-solving efforts to improve operational performance and eliminate waste.
  • Serves as a subject matter expert in continuous improvement and Lean systems across one or multiple sites.
  • Applies Advanced lean, six sigma, and Operational Excellence Methodologies to solve complex business and operational challenges.
  • Builds Operational Excellence capability and promotes autonomous continuous improvement through coaching, training and application of lean principles in the following areas:
  • Equipment Efficiency Losses
  • Direct Labor Efficiency
  • Scrap Reduction.
  • WIP Reduction.
  • Hoshin & VSM.
  • 5S & Product Respect. (Standards)

Lean STRATEGIES

  • Translates business objectives into actionable improvement initiatives aligned with operational priorities.
  • Identifies, prioritizes, and leads cross-functional improvement opportunities.
  • Supports deployment of Operational Excellence initiatives and best practices.
  • Partners with operational leaders to strengthen performance and continuous improvement capability..

Lean GEMBA ACTIVITIES

  • For the Fields of Competences listed above: 
    • Leads Gemba activities to Muda Hunting, process constraints, and improvement opportunities.
    • Facilitates root cause analysis and implementation of sustainable corrective actions.
    • Detect Abnormalities vs. Lean Standards.
    • Coaches teams in structured problem solving, Lean thinking, and continuous improvement practices.

Lean RESULTS

  • Leads complex problem-solving efforts to improve operational performance and eliminate waste.
  • Improves productivity, quality, lead time, inventory, and operational effectiveness.
  • Develops autonomous continuous improvement capability within operational teams
  • Replicates successful practices and improvement methodologies with the Site & Portfolio Business Unit Representatives.


Education, Work Experience, Skills, Certificates

  • At least 8 Years in Production/Manufacturing, Mechanical/Process/Industrial Engineering Related Experience. Multiple or Large Sites’ Lean Workshop Management Experience.
  • Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification through American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a plus.
  • Knowledge and Practice Experience of the Following Tools:
    • Strong Problem Solving, Communication & Coaching Skills.
    • 5S, Zoning & Visual Management
    • Standard Work and Cycle Time Management.
    • Muda Hunting
    • Pull Flow/Kanban
    • SMED
    • TPM
    • VSM

 Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.


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