Job Description
We are seeking a dynamic and strategic
Continuous Improvement Leader to join Cherry Aerospace . This role is critical in driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across all levels of the organization. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on leader who can partner with senior leadership to develop and execute a long-term improvement roadmap that aligns with business goals. Role Type This is
not solely an individual contributor role . The Continuous Improvement Leader will work closely with
senior facility leadership to shape strategy and drive execution. A key responsibility of this role is to
develop and maintain a comprehensive Continuous Improvement Roadmap —detailing the types of improvement events, their timing, sequencing, and targeted operational areas. The role requires a balance of strategic planning and hands-on facilitation, with the ability to influence and align cross-functional teams toward long-term operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities - Collaborate directly with senior leadership to define and prioritize improvement initiatives.
- Develop a strategic Continuous Improvement Roadmap that outlines:
- Types of improvement events (e.g., Kaizen, 5S, Value Stream Mapping)
- Timing and sequencing of initiatives
- Targeted departments or operational areas
- Establish and implement a Continuous Improvement (CI) Program tailored to Cherry Aerospace’s high-volume aerospace fastener production environment.
- Conduct time studies and bottleneck analysis to identify inefficiencies; implement standardized work and line balancing, resulting in measurable improvements such as:
- Reduction in cycle time
- Increased throughput without additional labor
- Lead structured root cause analysis using 5 Whys and Fishbone diagrams to address recurring quality issues.
- Introduce in-process inspection checkpoints and operator training, significantly reducing scrap rates.
- Apply SMED (Single-Minute Exchange of Dies) principles to reduce tooling changeover time on machines.
- Reorganize tooling layout, pre-stage materials, and implement quick-release fixtures, cutting changeover time and increasing machine availability.
- Facilitate cross-functional improvement events and workshops.
- Coach and mentor employees at all levels on Lean principles and problem-solving methodologies.
- Track and report on the progress and impact of improvement initiatives.
- Promote a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous learning.
Qualifications - Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Operations Management, or related field (Master’s preferred)
- 5+ years of experience in manufacturing or operations, with a focus on Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement
- Lean Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred)
- Proven experience leading cross-functional improvement initiatives
- Strong analytical, facilitation, and communication skills
- Ability to influence at all levels of the organization
Preferred Attributes - Experience in aerospace or high-precision manufacturing environments
- Familiarity with Howmet Aerospace systems and processes
- Change management expertise
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