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Continuous Improvement Engineer
Precision Polymer Engineering (PPE)
LOCATION
Blackburn based
SUMMARY
Part of the IDEX Corporation, Precision Polymer Engineering Ltd is a manufacturer and supplier of high performance, niche elastomer seals used in critical applications around the globe. At IDEX we are focused on attractive markets where there is sustainable competitive advantage based on technology leading to high growth and profitability. We are fast growing and successful with over £1 billion annual sales.
1 PRIMARY FUNCTION:
As the Continuous Improvement Engineer, you will lead the analysis and optimization of processes across all departments to enhance efficiency, minimize waste, and reduce costs. This role requires in-depth knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to engage and inspire teams. By leading through example, you will foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence aligned with Lean philosophy.
2 REPORTS TO:
Continuous Improvement Manager
3 TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Lead continuous improvement initiatives: Apply Lean tools and methodologies to optimise business processes and reduce complexity.
2. Promote a culture of continuous improvement: Mentor and train stakeholders to embed ongoing change across the organisation.
3. Provide Lean training: Educate teams on tools like Value Stream Mapping, 5S, and Built-in Quality to drive meaningful improvements.
4. Manage data and metrics: Develop systems to monitor progress, analyse trends, and track continuous improvement performance.
5. Oversee strategic projects: Identify, propose, and manage high-value projects aligned with business goals.
6. Maintain documentation: Ensure all process documentation, such as SOPs and OPLs, is up to date and accessible.
7. Collaborate cross-functionally: Work with teams across departments to achieve organisational goals and contribute to strategic plans.
4 ORGANISATION REQUIREMENTS:
4.1 Needs to develop effective relationships:
4.1.1 Peers on the same shift in manufacturing
4.1.2 Other departments who can have an influence on business KPIs
5 EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Essential Skills:
8. Analytical & Problem-Solving Abilities : Excellent analytical skills, critical and creative thinking for technical problem-solving.
9. Detail-Oriented : Keen eye for detail to avoid costly errors and ensure precision.
10. Communication Skills : Ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders across all levels, collaborate with teams, present findings, and implement changes.
11. LEAN/Six Sigma Expertise : Strong understanding and practical experience in Lean manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies (Green Belt or higher), and process optimization tools like Kaizen.
12. Continuous Improvement Passion : Genuine enthusiasm for driving efficiency and improvements.
13. Practical Problem Solving : Experience leading practical problem-solving exercises with multi-functional teams.
14. Project Management : Skilled in managing projects from "cradle to grave" and handling multiple improvement projects simultaneously.
15. Manufacturing, Logistics, and Engineering Knowledge : Comprehensive understanding of related processes.
16. Data Analysis : Proficiency in collecting, interpreting, and analyzing data to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
17. Adaptability : Ability to adapt to new technologies and evolving business needs.
18. Teamwork and Collaboration : Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams in fast-paced production environments.
19. Can-Do Attitude : Positive approach and proactive mindset.
Desirable Skills:
20. Six Sigma Black Belt : Advanced qualification in Six Sigma methodologies.
21. Manufacturing Experience : Proven experience working in or supporting fast-paced production environments.
22. Specialized Knowledge : Familiarity with polymer and elastomer products.
23. Leadership in Productivity Projects : Proven track record of leading and implementing successful productivity projects.
24. Engineering Qualifications : Relevant academic or professional engineering certifications.
6 COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS:
Job Knowledge
25. Excellent knowledge of job function
26. Keen to expand knowledge base and seeks out new and updated information
27. Demonstrates knowledge of techniques, skills, equipment, procedures and materials
28. Applies knowledge to identify issues and internal problems; works to develop additional technical knowledge and skills
Communication
(Verbal & Written)
29. Open and honest in communication
30. Good understanding of written and verbal English
31. Communicates concisely, logically and in a timely fashion
32. Ensures that others have the information they need to do their jobs; readily shares information
33. Holds others’ attention
Housekeeping
34. Ensure that own work area is kept clean and tidy at all times and that no walkways are blocked
35. At end of shift, always follow agreed cleaning procedure
36. Have pride in area of work, encouraging colleagues to do the same
Action/Results Orientated
37. Identifies opportunities and initiates actions to achieve objectives
38. Creates a sense of urgency within the organization; encourages others to be accountable for and achieve results
39. Not fearful of acting with limited planning or supervision; willing to take the initiative to accomplish desired results
40. Enthusiastic and committed; demonstrates capacity for sustained effort and hard work over long time periods
Attendance
41. Demonstrate high levels of attendance at all times
42. Ability to be flexible if required based on business needs
Problem Solving
43. Adapts well to changing priorities, deadlines and directions
44. Works to eliminate all processes which do not add value
45. Is willing to take action, even under pressure, criticism or tight deadlines
46. Recognizes and accurately evaluates the signs of a problem
47. Analyzes current procedures for possible improvements
48. Notifies Cell Leader of problems in a timely manner
Quality
49. Performs tasks with care; is thorough. Makes few, if any, errors
50. Checks work to ensure accuracy and completeness
51. Compares observations or finished work to what is expected to find inconsistencies.
52. Remains aware and takes care of details that are easy to overlook or dismiss as insignificant
Initiative
53. Creates solutions to problems
54. Operates effectively in a changing and pressured environment
Decision Making
55. Breaks problems into logical steps; identifies obstacles and potential causes or problems
56. Makes decisions and solves problems in a timely manner; able to make good decisions under time constraints
57. Assesses risk and carefully considers options before acting
58. Gains support for solutions by providing sound reasoning for his/her ideas; explains the logic behind suggestions
Planning / Organisation
59. Identifies the sequence of tasks and the resources needed to achieve a goal
60. Ability to prioritize key actions to achieve output
61. Coordinates workload and resources to achieve goals
Teamwork
62. Actively encourages people to work together; fosters a cooperative environment
63. Builds trust, rapport and team cohesion by soliciting others’ input, listening to their needs and ideas, and discussing potential compromises/solutions
64. Creates a sense of team spirit by sharing group successes; recognizes the value of teamwork
65. Works effectively with various different individuals and departments to achieve a positive end result
66. Supportive of team members; approachable, flexible, can play various team roles
Lead through Influence
67. Exerts a positive influence on others, even in challenging situations
68. Influence others to be excited and committed to furthering the organization’s objectives
69. Demonstrates ability to work with team members to meet a common goal
70. Create a positive and upbeat atmosphere
71. Demonstrate sound and constructive communication to colleagues and management
72. Promote and demonstrate open, honest, two way communication
73. Responds positively to change, embracing and using new practices or values to accomplish goals and solve problems
Attitude / Behaviours
74. Shows role model behavior at all times
75. Engage themselves positively in their place of work
76. Seek to find answers from the correct source if unsure; not willing to get involved in idle gossip
77. Clarify situations without second guessing
Are you ready to join a different kind of company where our people, our culture, and our commitments are centered around providing trusted solutions that improve lives around the world?
Job Family: Operations
Business Unit: PPE