Continuous Improvement Manager | Traverse City, MI

Salary Range: $86,000 - $132,000 depending on experience

Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for driving operational efficiency and eliminating waste? The Pivot Group is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career growth. We partner with leading manufacturing companies in Traverse City, seeking experienced Continuous Improvement Managers to strengthen their teams.

The Opportunity

We collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Traverse City region seeking Continuous Improvement Managers. These employers partner with us because they want real insight into candidates—not just resumes. By joining our network, you gain access to roles worth considering.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the identification, development, and implementation of continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations.
• Drive the adoption of Lean methodologies (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping) and Six Sigma principles to optimize processes.
• Facilitate Kaizen events, workshops, and problem-solving sessions to eliminate waste and improve efficiency.
• Train, coach, and mentor employees at all levels on continuous improvement tools and methodologies.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to continuous improvement projects, demonstrating tangible results and ROI.
• Develop and maintain a strong continuous improvement culture by promoting employee engagement and ownership.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., production, engineering, quality) to ensure successful project execution and sustainment.

Recommended Qualifications

• Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB) or Master Black Belt (LSSMBB)
• 5+ years of experience leading continuous improvement initiatives within a manufacturing environment
• Proven track record of implementing CI methodologies (e.g., Lean, Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping)
• Strong analytical and data-driven problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated ability to drive cultural change and effectively train/mentor teams

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with Theory of Constraints (TOC) or Shainin Red X methodologies.
• Proficiency in advanced statistical software like R or Python for data analysis.
• Certification in a recognized change management methodology (e.g., Prosci).
• Experience integrating Continuous Improvement with Industry 4.0 initiatives and digital transformation.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Continuous Improvement Lead, Process Improvement Manager, Lean Manager, Six Sigma Manager, Operational Excellence Manager, Business Process Improvement Manager, Process Optimization Manager, CI Manager

Why Pivot Group

The Pivot Group was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out. The Pivot Group offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.