Specialist, Continuous Improvement
About the role
RESPONSIBILITIES AND PHILOSOPHY:
1. Operator Development and Empowerment
- Facilitates CI Trainings empowering operators about internal CI learning opportunities (5S, Idea Management, 8D, RCA’s, Process Mapping, Kaizens, Gemba, Lean Essentials, Lean Six Sigma) included but not limited to Samuel Connect learning journeys to promote personal and professional growth.
- Active Gemba and Process Robustness
- Support lead hands, operators and transactional support groups in recovery and preventive actions for rework, setup, and changeovers.
- Application of Lean Six Sigma Methodologies (DMAIC, DMADV)
- Provide the necessary lean tools, supplies and guidance to improve effectiveness.
- Reinforce (1)5S; (2)Idea Management; (3)Time Studies, (4)Space optimization, (4)Kaizen, (5)Kanban, (6)Hoshin Kanri, (7)Poka-Yoke; (8) SIPOC; (9)SMED; (10)Obeya; (11)Leader Standard Work; (12)Gemba and (13)Value Stream Mapping.
- Collaborate with management to prioritize improvement efforts based on data, impact, and feasibility.
- Behavioral and Process Analysis
- Use pain point logs, cause-and-effect diagrams, 5 Whys, and other Lean Six Sigma tools to identify root causes at the real place (Gemba).
- Facilitation of (1)Project Drilldown Analysis; (2)Project Charters; (3)8D; (4)A3; (5)Kaizen
- Analytical and Technical Responsibilities
- Collaborate with Management, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and other departments to execute and sustain improvements.
- Must be proficient in applications used for documentation and data analysis including but not limited to: Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio, Power BI, SQL, Tableau, Python, AutoCAD, Solid Works
- Must know how to use and navigate through our JDE systems
- Benchmarking & Standardization Framework
- Internal Benchmark: Observe and assist operators to identify real issues, wastes, constraints and root causes.
- Functional Benchmark: Research operational excellence across similar or divergent industries.
- Collaboration and Cross-Departmental Integration
- Partner with Process Engineering, Maintenance, VSM to ensure equipment robustness and reduce operator struggles.
- Collaborate with Management and HR for alignment, morale, and training.
- Support aerospace expansion by improving employee engagement, process capability, compliance, and reducing Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).
- Apply Frameworks for Lean Quick Wins
Apply the following mental frameworks in day-to-day improvement work:
- Empower operators to stop the process when issues occur. Build quality at the source by reacting immediately to defects instead of passing them downstream.
- Foster an environment where learning, feedback, and small daily improvements are celebrated. Encourage continuous experimentation and adaptation.
- Simplify complex concepts by explaining them in clear, everyday language. Use this method to teach operators and teams, ensuring true understanding.
- Reinforce 5S (Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, Sustain)
- Spearhead the 5S Program as the foundation of Lean discipline.
- Updates the 5S ATC Procedure, 5S Physical and Digital Boards, 5S Annual Program
- Lead the 5S Big Clean-Up Activities of the VSM’s and Functional Support Groups.
- Facilitation of 5S Training for VSM and Functional Support Groups
- Facilitates a monthly meeting with the 5S Steering Committee
- Conduct a bi-weekly 5S Gemba walks to maintain visual order and eliminate workplace stress.
- Create 5S visual guidelines, hybrid marketing, standardization, benchmarking and ownership systems for each area to prevent drift.
- Ensures that the 5S Quarterly Audit is facilitated and the audit results is released as a baseline for measuring team engagement and workstation effectiveness.
- Leads the 5S Quarterly Rewards & Recognition for the VSM & Functional Areas promoting engagement and pride in the work area.
OBJECTIVES
- Communicate with the Value Stream Managers, operators, lead hands, and QA/QC to understand ongoing issues and goals.
- Engages in the ATC TIBS Meeting and challenges the team on the OFI’s in the metrices in the TIBS relative to Safety, Quality, Delivery and Cost.
- Conduct gemba walks to observe operations, identify wastes, and record improvement opportunities.
- Act on Lean Quick Wins opportunities that are low cost, low effort but high impact improvements.
- Gemba)
- Reinforce 5S standards at workstations. Provide operators with proper tools and supplies to optimize preparedness and effectiveness.
- Engage operators in quick 5–10 minute micro-learning moments to reinforce Lean principles.
- Provide support to maintenance when equipment issues impact robustness or productivity.
- Communicate improvement progress and status to management and relevant departments.
- Review log data and trends to identify recurring issues or variations.
- Meet with QA, Engineering, and Lean teams to align improvement priorities.
- Conduct a mini root cause analysis on one key recurring issue per week.
- Update visual boards, metrics, and 5S audits.
- Present a monthly improvement report summarizing:
- Key projects completed or initiated (Refer to KPIs)
- Quantified waste reduction and process improvements
- Lead or co-lead a small-to-medium Lean improvement project with cross-functional collaboration.
- Conduct internal benchmarking reviews to compare process capability and performance.
- Review and refresh training content for learning sessions.
- Evaluate 5S, Idea Management, Kaizen sustainability and corrective measures for drift.
- Report CI Metrices trends and process stability metrics to management.
- Perform gap analysis to document our current status versus past performance, enabling measurable progress tracking.
- Facilitate projects assigned by management, forming cross-functional teams of Yellow Belts and process owners to execute them collaboratively.
- Maintain continuous work to sustain all improvement initiatives and ensure gains are not lost.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering or a related Engineering field.
- Proven experience in continuous improvement roles and should be able to proliferate the CI Culture with confidence and drive engagement in the ATC facility.
- Spearheaded 5S Program, Idea Management System, Kaizens, L6S Projects
- Facilitated VSM, Time Study Analysis, SMED, OEE, Scrap & Space Optimization Projects
- Strong analytical and Problem-Solving skills.
- Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma or other improvement methodologies.
- Lean Six Sigma GB or BB Certification
- Data-driven mindset with proficiency in data analysis tools.
HEALTH AND SAFETY:
- Demonstrates a positive attitude towards safety and models safety for other employees at all times.
- Understand that it is mandatory to use and/or wear all personal protective equipment provided by the Company.
- Reports all accidents, incidents and near misses and supports in determining corrective actions to eliminate workplace hazards.
- Practices safe work habits as detailed in Samuels/ATC’s safety policies, procedures, C.S.A and the Occupational Health & Safety Act of Ontario.
- Understands and completes necessary health & safety training through Samuel’s Safety Training program and ensures renewal training is completed as per company requirements.
This is for a current open position. AI is not used in the screening of candidate resumes.
The expected compensation range for this position is $86,080 - $118,360/hr. This range includes base pay and target variable pay. Actual compensation will depend on factors such as geographic location, skills, education, and experience. We also consider internal equity to ensure fair and consistent pay practices. This range reflects the expected full compensation range for the role; most offers will fall within the range and not at the maximum in order to allow for future growth.
At Samuel, we believe every team member brings unique and valuable skills, experiences and knowledge to our thriving business – enabling us to build on over 170 years of success in the metals industry. We offer countless opportunities for our team members to develop and grow in their careers, empower them to make decisions on the job and be a part of driving positive change – within our organization and in the communities where we live and work. If you’re seeking a dynamic, supportive and welcoming workplace to make your mark and grow your career, we have the programs, culture and opportunities to make it happen. We’re stronger together.
At Samuel we believe in a culture of equality. Respect and integrity are at our core. We are committed to building and creating an environment that is open and welcoming for everyone.
This job posting is for an existing vacancy within the organization
Samuel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In the United States, we utilize E-Verify.
Samuel Associated Tube Group is a premier supplier of welded cold-drawn stainless steel, high nickel alloy and carbon tubular products with solutions for industries worldwide. We design and manufacture a comprehensive range of tube products including standard and specialized tubular solutions in multiple diameter sizes, shapes and profiles to meet the unique needs of our customers. Leveraging the metallurgical and new product development expertise of our teams, we help customers realize significant cost savings and deliver innovative solutions faster.
About Samuel, Son & Co.
Founded in 1855, Samuel, Son & Co., Limited, is a family-owned integrated network of metal manufacturing, processing and distribution divisions. Samuel employees provide metals, industrial products and related value-added services from locations across North America.
The company leverages its industry expertise, breadth of experience and the passion of its people to help drive success for North American business – one customer at a time. For more information visit samuel.com.
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Specialist, Continuous Improvement
About the role
RESPONSIBILITIES AND PHILOSOPHY:
1. Operator Development and Empowerment
- Facilitates CI Trainings empowering operators about internal CI learning opportunities (5S, Idea Management, 8D, RCA’s, Process Mapping, Kaizens, Gemba, Lean Essentials, Lean Six Sigma) included but not limited to Samuel Connect learning journeys to promote personal and professional growth.
- Active Gemba and Process Robustness
- Support lead hands, operators and transactional support groups in recovery and preventive actions for rework, setup, and changeovers.
- Application of Lean Six Sigma Methodologies (DMAIC, DMADV)
- Provide the necessary lean tools, supplies and guidance to improve effectiveness.
- Reinforce (1)5S; (2)Idea Management; (3)Time Studies, (4)Space optimization, (4)Kaizen, (5)Kanban, (6)Hoshin Kanri, (7)Poka-Yoke; (8) SIPOC; (9)SMED; (10)Obeya; (11)Leader Standard Work; (12)Gemba and (13)Value Stream Mapping.
- Collaborate with management to prioritize improvement efforts based on data, impact, and feasibility.
- Behavioral and Process Analysis
- Use pain point logs, cause-and-effect diagrams, 5 Whys, and other Lean Six Sigma tools to identify root causes at the real place (Gemba).
- Facilitation of (1)Project Drilldown Analysis; (2)Project Charters; (3)8D; (4)A3; (5)Kaizen
- Analytical and Technical Responsibilities
- Collaborate with Management, Quality Assurance, Engineering, and other departments to execute and sustain improvements.
- Must be proficient in applications used for documentation and data analysis including but not limited to: Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio, Power BI, SQL, Tableau, Python, AutoCAD, Solid Works
- Must know how to use and navigate through our JDE systems
- Benchmarking & Standardization Framework
- Internal Benchmark: Observe and assist operators to identify real issues, wastes, constraints and root causes.
- Functional Benchmark: Research operational excellence across similar or divergent industries.
- Collaboration and Cross-Departmental Integration
- Partner with Process Engineering, Maintenance, VSM to ensure equipment robustness and reduce operator struggles.
- Collaborate with Management and HR for alignment, morale, and training.
- Support aerospace expansion by improving employee engagement, process capability, compliance, and reducing Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).
- Apply Frameworks for Lean Quick Wins
Apply the following mental frameworks in day-to-day improvement work:
- Empower operators to stop the process when issues occur. Build quality at the source by reacting immediately to defects instead of passing them downstream.
- Foster an environment where learning, feedback, and small daily improvements are celebrated. Encourage continuous experimentation and adaptation.
- Simplify complex concepts by explaining them in clear, everyday language. Use this method to teach operators and teams, ensuring true understanding.
- Reinforce 5S (Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, Sustain)
- Spearhead the 5S Program as the foundation of Lean discipline.
- Updates the 5S ATC Procedure, 5S Physical and Digital Boards, 5S Annual Program
- Lead the 5S Big Clean-Up Activities of the VSM’s and Functional Support Groups.
- Facilitation of 5S Training for VSM and Functional Support Groups
- Facilitates a monthly meeting with the 5S Steering Committee
- Conduct a bi-weekly 5S Gemba walks to maintain visual order and eliminate workplace stress.
- Create 5S visual guidelines, hybrid marketing, standardization, benchmarking and ownership systems for each area to prevent drift.
- Ensures that the 5S Quarterly Audit is facilitated and the audit results is released as a baseline for measuring team engagement and workstation effectiveness.
- Leads the 5S Quarterly Rewards & Recognition for the VSM & Functional Areas promoting engagement and pride in the work area.
OBJECTIVES
- Communicate with the Value Stream Managers, operators, lead hands, and QA/QC to understand ongoing issues and goals.
- Engages in the ATC TIBS Meeting and challenges the team on the OFI’s in the metrices in the TIBS relative to Safety, Quality, Delivery and Cost.
- Conduct gemba walks to observe operations, identify wastes, and record improvement opportunities.
- Act on Lean Quick Wins opportunities that are low cost, low effort but high impact improvements.
- Gemba)
- Reinforce 5S standards at workstations. Provide operators with proper tools and supplies to optimize preparedness and effectiveness.
- Engage operators in quick 5–10 minute micro-learning moments to reinforce Lean principles.
- Provide support to maintenance when equipment issues impact robustness or productivity.
- Communicate improvement progress and status to management and relevant departments.
- Review log data and trends to identify recurring issues or variations.
- Meet with QA, Engineering, and Lean teams to align improvement priorities.
- Conduct a mini root cause analysis on one key recurring issue per week.
- Update visual boards, metrics, and 5S audits.
- Present a monthly improvement report summarizing:
- Key projects completed or initiated (Refer to KPIs)
- Quantified waste reduction and process improvements
- Lead or co-lead a small-to-medium Lean improvement project with cross-functional collaboration.
- Conduct internal benchmarking reviews to compare process capability and performance.
- Review and refresh training content for learning sessions.
- Evaluate 5S, Idea Management, Kaizen sustainability and corrective measures for drift.
- Report CI Metrices trends and process stability metrics to management.
- Perform gap analysis to document our current status versus past performance, enabling measurable progress tracking.
- Facilitate projects assigned by management, forming cross-functional teams of Yellow Belts and process owners to execute them collaboratively.
- Maintain continuous work to sustain all improvement initiatives and ensure gains are not lost.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering or a related Engineering field.
- Proven experience in continuous improvement roles and should be able to proliferate the CI Culture with confidence and drive engagement in the ATC facility.
- Spearheaded 5S Program, Idea Management System, Kaizens, L6S Projects
- Facilitated VSM, Time Study Analysis, SMED, OEE, Scrap & Space Optimization Projects
- Strong analytical and Problem-Solving skills.
- Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma or other improvement methodologies.
- Lean Six Sigma GB or BB Certification
- Data-driven mindset with proficiency in data analysis tools.
HEALTH AND SAFETY:
- Demonstrates a positive attitude towards safety and models safety for other employees at all times.
- Understand that it is mandatory to use and/or wear all personal protective equipment provided by the Company.
- Reports all accidents, incidents and near misses and supports in determining corrective actions to eliminate workplace hazards.
- Practices safe work habits as detailed in Samuels/ATC’s safety policies, procedures, C.S.A and the Occupational Health & Safety Act of Ontario.
- Understands and completes necessary health & safety training through Samuel’s Safety Training program and ensures renewal training is completed as per company requirements.
This is for a current open position. AI is not used in the screening of candidate resumes.
The expected compensation range for this position is $86,080 - $118,360/hr. This range includes base pay and target variable pay. Actual compensation will depend on factors such as geographic location, skills, education, and experience. We also consider internal equity to ensure fair and consistent pay practices. This range reflects the expected full compensation range for the role; most offers will fall within the range and not at the maximum in order to allow for future growth.
At Samuel, we believe every team member brings unique and valuable skills, experiences and knowledge to our thriving business – enabling us to build on over 170 years of success in the metals industry. We offer countless opportunities for our team members to develop and grow in their careers, empower them to make decisions on the job and be a part of driving positive change – within our organization and in the communities where we live and work. If you’re seeking a dynamic, supportive and welcoming workplace to make your mark and grow your career, we have the programs, culture and opportunities to make it happen. We’re stronger together.
At Samuel we believe in a culture of equality. Respect and integrity are at our core. We are committed to building and creating an environment that is open and welcoming for everyone.
This job posting is for an existing vacancy within the organization
Samuel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In the United States, we utilize E-Verify.
Samuel Associated Tube Group is a premier supplier of welded cold-drawn stainless steel, high nickel alloy and carbon tubular products with solutions for industries worldwide. We design and manufacture a comprehensive range of tube products including standard and specialized tubular solutions in multiple diameter sizes, shapes and profiles to meet the unique needs of our customers. Leveraging the metallurgical and new product development expertise of our teams, we help customers realize significant cost savings and deliver innovative solutions faster.
About Samuel, Son & Co.
Founded in 1855, Samuel, Son & Co., Limited, is a family-owned integrated network of metal manufacturing, processing and distribution divisions. Samuel employees provide metals, industrial products and related value-added services from locations across North America.
The company leverages its industry expertise, breadth of experience and the passion of its people to help drive success for North American business – one customer at a time. For more information visit samuel.com.