Continuous Improvement Specialist

What you will do:

The Continuous Improvement Specialist is a key member of Tillamook’s Continuous Improvement Team and partners with Leadership to support improving business results for the company.

This role will require understanding our KPI’s and our current processes that yield these outcomes. This role is pivotal in implementing and optimizing processes to enhance productivity, quality, and cost-effectiveness; ensuring compliance with food safety and regulatory standards.

Also responsible for training team members to learn and practice skills in Lean, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraint methodologies.

Here’s a day in the life:

Analyze current production methods and processes to identify opportunities for improvement.

Train and mentor staff on continuous improvement techniques and mindset.

Implement Lean manufacturing principles and Six Sigma techniques to reduce waste and variability in production.

Facilitate and lead continuous improvement projects, including Kaizen events and root cause analysis sessions.

Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality control, and supply chain, to implement improvement initiatives.

Develop and monitor performance metrics to measure the effectiveness of implemented changes and to identify areas for further improvement.

Maintain documentation on process changes and improvements for compliance and training purposes.

Stay abreast of the latest industry trends and technologies to drive innovation within the company.

Establish and maintain effective relationships with employees, supervisors and the general public.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.

3+ years of experience in a continuous improvement role within a manufacturing environment, preferably in the food industry.

Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies; certification (e.g., Six Sigma Green Belt) is a plus.

Proven track record of leading successful process improvement projects.

Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

Strong communication and leadership skills, capable of motivating teams and influencing change across all levels of the organization.

Proficiency in statistical analysis software and MS Office Suite.

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and under tight deadlines.

Strong organizational and project management skills.

Detail-oriented with an aptitude for critical thinking and innovation.

Fluent in English, Spanish a plus.

Valid driver’s license with satisfactory driving record.

Physical requirements:

This position may require occasional travel to other manufacturing sites and vendor locations.

The role involves both office work and time on the manufacturing floor, adhering to all safety and health guidelines.

Must remain aware of forklift traffic. Noisy, some areas can be dusty. May encounter extremes in temperature. Requires standing entire shift, walking on uneven, slippery surfaces, flexing, stooping, bending and crouching, climbing stairs and ladders. Duties may be repetitive motion of hands and lifting up to 50 pounds.

Industry leading benefit and reward programs:

We offer outstanding benefits to our employees. For more information, please visit the careers page:

We are committed to creating a diverse culture and inclusive conditions where all employees are heard, valued and feel a sense of belonging. We rely on different perspectives, thoughts, backgrounds and cultures to inform our work, to help us be better as a brand and as an employer and to fuel our success. We are seeking talent from a wide range of diversity, perspectives, and backgrounds to join our exceptional organization and help us build our future.

Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) is a Drug-Free Workplace. EEO/AA

TCCA prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, disability status (including those related to pregnancy and childbirth), protected veteran status, membership/non-membership in a labor organization, or any other characteristic protected by law.