Continuous Improvement Engineer - Industrial Operations Location: Petersburg, VA Employment Type: Direct Hire Compensation: Starting at $93,000+ annually (based on experience and qualifications) Position Overview A large-scale manufacturing environment is seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer to support operational performance initiatives throughout the facility. This role focuses on analyzing production processes, identifying improvement opportunities, and implementing sustainable solutions that improve efficiency, consistency, and overall operational effectiveness. The position partners closely with plant leadership and cross-functional teams to drive measurable improvements using data analysis, process optimization, and continuous improvement methodologies. Primary Responsibilities Operational Performance & Process Improvement
Monitor and evaluate operational metrics to identify trends, inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities
Support departments in establishing and achieving productivity, quality, and performance objectives
Lead initiatives focused on process optimization, waste reduction, and operational consistency
Analyze production data and recommend corrective actions to improve plant performance
Continuous Improvement & Training Support
Facilitate training related to continuous improvement tools, methodologies, and operational best practices
Coach employees and department teams on applying improvement techniques within daily operations
Participate in and support structured improvement activities and process reviews
Reinforce standardization efforts and sustainable process controls
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with multiple departments on projects involving audits, 5S initiatives, failure analysis, and process standardization
Identify recurring operational issues and support implementation of long-term corrective solutions
Assist with development and execution of annual operational improvement strategies and roadmaps
Capital Projects & Engineering Support
Support CAPEX projects and operational improvement initiatives tied to plant performance
Assist in developing process standards connected to equipment upgrades and capital investments
Provide cost estimates, process evaluations, and feasibility support for improvement projects
Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to improve production workflows
Operational Support & Communication
Provide guidance on process optimization and system improvement opportunities
Support escalation processes, corrective action follow-up, and internal communication efforts
Participate in plant safety initiatives and reinforce compliance with workplace safety standards
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Material Science, or related field preferred
3-5 years of experience within manufacturing or industrial operations
Familiarity with manufacturing workflows, process standardization, and quality improvement practices
Experience using continuous improvement tools such as Six Sigma, 5S, and failure analysis methodologies
Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities
Ability to train, coach, and influence cross-functional teams
Strong communication, presentation, and organizational skills
Preferred Experience
Background in steel manufacturing or heavy industrial operations
Exposure to manufacturing processes such as scrap handling, melting, casting, rolling, maintenance, or finishing operations
Previous experience in leadership, facilitation, or team coordination roles
Understanding of complex manufacturing systems and industrial business processes
Why Consider This Opportunity? This role provides the opportunity to make a direct impact on manufacturing performance by leading operational improvement initiatives and supporting long-term process optimization efforts. It is well suited for professionals who enjoy problem-solving, cross-functional collaboration, and driving measurable operational results in an industrial environment. We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.