Continuous Improvement Manager | Portage, MI

Salary Range: $95,000 - $142,000 depending on experience

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for driving operational efficiency and eliminating waste? The Pivot Group is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career advancement. We are collaborating with leading companies in Portage seeking experienced Continuous Improvement Managers.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with multiple companies in Portage seeking experienced Continuous Improvement Managers. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate continuous improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen.
• Identify and analyze process inefficiencies and bottlenecks across manufacturing operations.
• Develop and deliver training programs to build CI capabilities within the organization.
• Coach and mentor teams on problem-solving techniques and the application of CI tools.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track improvement progress and sustain gains.
• Manage and prioritize a portfolio of improvement projects from conception to completion.
• Drive a culture of continuous improvement, problem-solving, and waste reduction throughout the plant.

Recommended Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive experience in Continuous Improvement roles within a manufacturing environment.
• Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) or Master Black Belt (CSSMBB) certification.
• Proven expertise in Lean methodologies (e.g., Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Kaizen, SMED) and their practical application.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex improvement projects, driving measurable results and cultural change.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in data analysis tools and statistical process control.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field.

Bonus Qualifications

• Master Black Belt certification.
• Experience integrating CI with Industry 4.0 technologies (e.g., IoT, automation, digital twins).
• Proficiency with specific ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and advanced data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
• Experience leading CI initiatives across multiple manufacturing sites or globally.

Job Titles That Should Apply

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