The Process Improvement Coordinator is responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing process improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, product quality, productivity, and customer satisfaction. This position analyzes manufacturing and business processes, monitors performance metrics, supports continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborates cross-functionally to eliminate waste, improve workflows, and drive sustainable operational excellence.

The role serves as a key resource in Lean Manufacturing, data analysis, root cause problem solving, and process optimization efforts throughout the organization.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing, administrative, and operational processes.
• Lead and support continuous improvement projects focused on productivity, quality, safety, delivery, and cost reduction.
• Facilitate Lean Manufacturing initiatives and promote a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.
• Assist departments in developing standardized work procedures and best practices.
• Support implementation and sustainability of process improvements through training, documentation, and follow-up audits.

Data Analysis & Performance Measurement

• Collect, analyze, and report operational data to identify trends, bottlenecks, and improvement opportunities.
• Develop and maintain Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), dashboards, and operational scorecards.
• Monitor metrics including productivity, waste, scrap, downtime, efficiency, quality, labor utilization, and on-time delivery.
• Generate daily, weekly, and monthly reports to support operational decision-making.
• Present findings and recommendations to management and operational teams.

Project Management

• Coordinate process improvement projects from identification through implementation and validation.
• Establish project objectives, timelines, milestones, and success measurements.
• Track project progress and communicate status updates to stakeholders.
• Collaborate with department leaders to prioritize improvement opportunities based on business impact.
• Ensure projects achieve measurable and sustainable results.

Manufacturing Process Support

• Work closely with Production Supervisors, Leads, Operators, Maintenance, Quality, and Customer Service personnel to improve operational performance.
• Evaluate workflow, staffing, equipment utilization, and scheduling effectiveness.
• Conduct time studies, process observations, and workflow analyses.
• Support efforts to reduce waste, increase throughput, and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
• Assist in resolving process-related issues affecting quality, delivery, or production efficiency.

Training & Employee Engagement

• Facilitate employee training related to Lean Manufacturing principles, continuous improvement methodologies, and process standards.
• Support employee involvement programs focused on operational improvement.
• Assist teams in implementing problem-solving tools and continuous improvement techniques.
• Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and data-driven decision-making.

Quality & Compliance Support

• Support corrective and preventive action (CAPA) initiatives through root cause analysis and process improvement activities.
• Assist in maintaining process documentation, procedures, and work instructions.
• Participate in internal audits and continuous improvement reviews.
• Ensure process improvements comply with quality, safety, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing, Business Administration, Supply Chain, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant manufacturing experience may be considered.

Experience

• 2-5 years of experience in manufacturing, process improvement, operational excellence, quality, or production environments.
• Experience participating in or leading Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives preferred.
• Experience in printing, packaging, labeling, or converting industries is a plus.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including advanced reporting and data analysis functions.
• Experience with data visualization and reporting tools preferred.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, and Root Cause Analysis methodologies.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to analyze complex operational processes and recommend practical solutions.
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with employees at all organizational levels.
• Strong attention to detail and results-oriented mindset.

Preferred Certifications

• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt, Green Belt, or equivalent.
• Lean Manufacturing Certification.
• Continuous Improvement or Project Management training.

Key Competencies

• Continuous Improvement
• Lean Manufacturing
• Data Analysis
• Process Optimization
• Root Cause Analysis
• Project Management
• Change Management
• Communication & Collaboration
• Problem Solving
• Strategic Thinking
• Organizational Effectiveness

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based within a manufacturing environment.
• Frequent interaction with production teams and manufacturing equipment.
• Regular time spent on the production floor conducting observations and process reviews.
• Exposure to production-related noise, inks, coatings, and manufacturing equipment.
• Occasional overtime may be required to support projects and operational priorities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move throughout production and office environments.
• Frequent walking, standing, and observation of manufacturing processes.
• Use of computers and office equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry materials up to 20 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to read reports, production data, charts, and technical documentation.