Continuous Improvement Manager | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $94,000 - $141,000 depending on experience

Are you a seasoned professional with a passion for driving operational efficiency and eliminating waste? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Grand Rapids seeking Continuous Improvement Managers to lead and enhance their operations.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with multiple companies in Grand Rapids 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

• Drives the implementation of Lean Six Sigma methodologies across manufacturing operations.
• Leads cross-functional teams to identify and execute process improvement projects.
• Mentors and trains employees at all levels on continuous improvement tools and principles.
• Establishes and monitors key performance indicators (KPIs) to track improvement progress and sustain gains.
• Facilitates value stream mapping and root cause analysis workshops to identify waste and inefficiencies.
• Develops and maintains a pipeline of improvement projects aligned with strategic business objectives.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience leading continuous improvement initiatives in a manufacturing environment.
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification.
• Demonstrated experience with process mapping, value stream mapping, and root cause analysis.
• Proven ability to drive cultural change and foster a continuous improvement mindset.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of delivering measurable results.

Bonus Qualifications

• Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt certification
• Experience with AI/ML-driven process optimization tools
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop junior CI professionals
• Proficiency in data visualization tools like Tableau or Power BI
• Background in advanced manufacturing techniques (e.g., Industry 4.0, smart factories)

Job Titles That Should Apply

Process Improvement Manager, Lean Six Sigma Manager, Operational Excellence Manager, CI Manager, Business Process Analyst, Performance Improvement Manager, Quality and CI Manager, Transformation Manager, Process Optimization Lead, Productivity Manager

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network 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. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

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 at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network 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.