Continuous Improvement Manager

As the leading transit bus manufacturer in the United States, GILLIG buses play a critical role in the environmental and social initiatives in communities across our nation.  GILLIG is on the forefront in the transition to zero-emission vehicles and has an unmatched reputation in the industry for quality, reliability, durability, service, and support.  From initial design through final assembly, each GILLIG bus is designed and built in Livermore, CA. 

WHY GILLIG

• Leader in environmentally friendly mobility solutions including battery electric, hybrid electric, near-zero CNG and clean diesel transit buses
• Renowned for its inclusive team/family-oriented culture
• Stable, successful, and growing organization – a Bay Area business for over 132 years!
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Excellent compensation including company paid medical premiums, generous retirement plan and other comprehensive benefits

The Continuous Improvement Manager will be responsible for leading and facilitating Lean Six Sigma projects as well as Kaizen events throughout the organization. The successful candidate will have a solid understanding of Lean Six Sigma principles and methodologies, as well as the ability to apply them to identify and eliminate waste, reduce defects, and improve overall business performance. The CI Manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams, provide training and coaching, and support the implementation of continuous improvement strategies.

KEY RESPONSIBILITES 

• Lead and manage Lean Six Sigma projects to identify opportunities for process improvement, waste reduction, and cost savings
• Apply Lean Six Sigma methodologies, tools, and techniques to analyze data, identify root causes, and implement solutions to improve business operational processes
• Conduct process assessments and value stream mapping to identify constraints, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to facilitate process improvement workshops, brainstorming sessions, and problem-solving activities
• Provide training and coaching on Lean Six Sigma methodologies to team members at all levels of the organization
• Develop and maintain metrics and performance indicators to measure the effectiveness of continuous improvement initiatives
• Monitor project progress, track performance metrics, and report on project outcomes to management and stakeholders
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement, fostering employee engagement and involvement in process improvement initiatives
• Identify and implement best practices and standard work to sustain improvements
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in Lean Six Sigma methodologies and recommend innovative approaches to enhance the GILLIG Operational Excellence Roadmap

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience leading Continuous Improvement or similar role, with a proven track record of successful Lean Six Sigma project implementations
• Knowledge of Lean Six Sigma principles, methodologies, and tools (e.g., DMAIC, Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Kaizen, Root Cause Analysis, Statistical Process Control)
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt, or equivalent certification
• Experience leading and facilitating cross-functional teams and driving change within an organization
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to use data to drive decision-making and problem-solving processes
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with individuals at all levels of the organization
• Proven project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical software tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP, Excel)
• Manufacturing / Production Operations experience is a plus
• Knowledge of Industry-Specific regulations and compliance requirements is a plus

• Ability to lift 25 lbs
• Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and occasionally kneel or squat
• Limited travel may be required
• Standard start time: 6:00 a.m. (negotiable)

EXPECTED COMPENSATION

$75,000 - $275,000/annual salary + premium benefits  

Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job classification, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if a candidate receives an offer of employment.

GILLIG is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer.