Process Specialist

JOB SUMMARY

The Process Specialist is responsible for driving continuous improvement across manufacturing operations by supporting CAPEX project identification, conducting process and 5S audits, leading CI and Kaizen initiatives, managing OEE and expectation plans, and providing data-driven analysis to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost. This role partners closely with operations, quality, safety, and engineering to ensure alignment with the manufacturing scheme and sustained execution of standard work.

PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

CAPEX Project Identification

• Identify operational needs and improvement opportunities requiring capital investment.
• Develop clear problem statements and align proposed projects with business goals.
• Create initial CAPEX concepts, including scope, cost estimates, and expected benefits.
• Identify risks, constraints, and implementation considerations.
• Support project prioritization based on impact, ROI, and strategic alignment.
• Prepare and support formal CAPEX requests for leadership review and approval.

Process Audits - Manufacturing Scheme Alignment

• Conduct process audits to verify alignment between shop-floor execution and the established manufacturing scheme.
• Confirm adherence to defined process steps, work sequencing, buffer locations and sizing, material flow, and standard work.
• Document audit findings and gaps.
• Support corrective actions, training, and updates to the manufacturing scheme to ensure sustained compliance and performance.

5S Support

• Conduct monthly 5S audits to verify sustained alignment with identified goals, the manufacturing scheme, and standard work.
• Partner with operations to drive and support improvement opportunities identified during audits.
• Follow up on actions and verify effectiveness to ensure sustainment.

Continuous Improvement (CI) & Kaizen Support

• Lead cross-functional task teams and drive actionable improvement initiatives through structured Kaizen workshops.
• Lead CI improvement projects, including planning, execution, follow-up, and sustainment.
• Support CI initiatives through coordination, facilitation, and removal of barriers.

OEE Performance Management & Expectation Plan Sustainment

• Maintain OEE metrics and expectation plans.
• Perform audits, data analysis, time studies, and unit file reviews to ensure accuracy and effectiveness.
• Partner with operations to identify performance gaps and improvement opportunities.

Digitalization & CI Systems Support

• Support FMDS digitalization efforts, including data collection, updates, and sustainment.
• Participate in CTX or similar CI-related digital projects.

Data Analysis

• Perform data analysis in support of CI projects, including:
• Root cause analysis
• Cycle time breakdowns
• Capacity analysis
• Use data to identify, prioritize, and support improvement opportunities.

Quality Support

• Support CI-driven quality improvement projects aimed at improving process capability and product quality.
• Assist with root cause analysis, corrective actions, and sustainment activities.

Safety Support

• Support CI-driven safety improvement projects to proactively reduce risk and improve compliance.
• Participate in hazard identification, corrective actions, and verification of effectiveness.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Strong understanding of Lean, CI, Kaizen, and standard work principles.
• Ability to conduct audits, analyze data, and drive improvement actions.
• Strong communication and facilitation skills.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with operations, engineering, quality, and safety.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (Excel, Power BI, or similar preferred).

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Required Education / Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related engineering or technical discipline.
• Minimum of 4 years' experience in manufacturing, operations, or continuous improvement roles.

Preferred Education / Experience

• Lean certification