Continuous Improvement Engineer

Building the people that build the world.

With platforms in HVAC and Detection and Measurement, SPX Technologies builds innovative solutions that enable a safer, more efficient, sustainable world.  Through our RiSE talent development framework, we Reach, Identify, Strengthen, and Engage our employees to support them in their continued development.  We’re a global company of problem solvers, collaborators, and innovators, and our businesses build solutions that impact the world. 

As part of HVAC Cooling, SPX Cooling Technologies is a leader in high quality industrial HVAC equipment used to cool large facilities like hospitals, data centers, and power plants.   With cooling towers, fans, and refrigeration units, companies rely on brands like Marley, Recold, and SGS to provide comfort and mission critical and industrial cooling solutions.

How you will make an Impact (Job Summary)

SPX is a diverse team of unique individuals who all make an impact. As the Continuous Improvement (“CI”) Engineer, you will be responsible for championing the continuous improvement system to include assisting with cost and manufacturing process improvements; targeted deployment of lean tools; and an emphasis on system design, waste control, controllable costs, inventory, and productivity objectives at the Olathe, KS Facility. As the CI Engineer, you will work closely with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, quality assurance, product engineering and customer support, to identify and resolve technical issues, and support enhancements.

What you can expect in this role (Job Responsibilities)

While each day brings new opportunities at SPX, your core responsibilities will be:

1. Process Optimization and Operations

• Implement CI principles and methodologies to streamline processes and reduce waste
• Identify and deliver projects to drive CI in the business (Just Do Its, Kaizen, and Projects)
• Continuously refine knowledge of lean manufacturing and deploy in all facets of the facility for improvements in efficiency, quality, and cost reduction
  • Lead Kaizen Events: Pre-Work, Launch, Execute, and Follow Up Actions
  • Utilize Value Stream Mapping processes throughout the organization
  • Participate in the design and development of new manufacturing processes, equipment, and systems. Design and implement machine/assembly cells and factory layout.
• Keep safety and quality as primary concerns during planning and implementation phases of improvement activities
• Identify potential risks associated with process changes and develop strategies to mitigate them.

      2. Technical Support and Data Analysis

• Lead and support CI Program to align to SPX Business System in a manner which delivers to the annual plan.
• Collect and analyze data to identify trends, root causes, and performance metrics and utilize data to guide decision making
• Help develop and implement key performance metrics to monitor and measure the success of improvement projects
• Analyze reports and data to determine and recommend changes in methods, tooling, and/or equipment.
  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented changes, making adjustments as necessary.
  • Develops and maintains a sound general product knowledge and more specific product knowledge relating to application and manufacturing processes, becoming an "expert" in product manufacturing.

3. Projects and Continuous Improvement

• Coordinate and manage projects related to process improvement, from initial planning stages to successful completion.
• Participate in Centers of Excellence to Share Best Practices and Continuously Improve the SPX Business System (CI Program)
• Collaborate with leadership to understand production goals, providing technical guidance and statistical data to assist with decision making
• Working in cross functional teams (production, quality, maintenance), ensure seamless integration of process improvements.
• Teach, demonstrate, and coordinate Lean activities and implementation such as Kaizen, SMED, Kanban, Material Conveyance, Production flow, Value Stream Mapping, Takt time analysis, Problem-Solving, Standardized work, 5S, Visual Management, Error-Proofing, 5S, TPM, Scheduling, etc.
• Coach, motivate, and lead the teams to institute methods for sustaining the gains of each activity
• Participate in other projects as assigned that relate to the overall goals of the department and organization 

What we are looking for (Experience, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education)

We each bring something to the table, and we are looking for someone who has:

Required Experience

• Experience in leading CI events and initiatives

Preferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• 2+ years Lean Experience
• Lean Certification or documented Lean Training in conjunction with the Lean Experience
• Experienced in lean transformation. Change Management must be part of the total experience.  
• Proven knowledge of process improvement methodologies, including Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma
• Experience in multiple functional groups (leadership level preferred)
• Experience leading Managing for Daily Improvement (Gemba Walks)
• Prior experience leading/participating in 10+ Kaizen Events
• Experience in training CI and Lean concepts.
• Project management skills with prior experience successfully leading and implementing process improvement initiatives
• Strong knowledge of operational processes, including production planning, scheduling, inventory management, and quality control 
• Proven experience with one piece flow (balancing, pacing, improved through-put) and visual factory (KPIs, pacing boards, EI)
• Familiarity with project management principles and the ability to coordinate multiple projects simultaneously
• Ability to define problems, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Problems solving and data analysis skills (8D, 5Y, statistics, etc.)
• Experience with CI tools/ events such as SMED, Kanban, Material Conveyance, Production flow, Value Stream Mapping, Takt time analysis, Standardized work, 5S, Visual Management, Error-Proofing, 5S, TPM, Scheduling, etc.
• Experience designing and implementing machine/assembly cells and factory layouts
• Must have Strong computer skills with excellent skills in Microsoft Office applications. Able to develop summary graphs, tables, pivot tables, and other reports using PowerPoint, Excel and Word
• Must have excellent written and oral communication skills
• Leadership through teamwork as a motivational leader. Demonstrate teamwork abilities, as well as persistence when dealing with problems

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field of study (Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Business) is required

Travel & Working Environment

• Minimal travel (<10%) that includes visits to other facilities, vendors and training.
• Frequently required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Manufacturing Environment frequently require use of foot, eye and ear protection when in production areas.

How we live our culture

Our culture is at the center of what we do and, more importantly, who we are.  Our core values set a standard for how we manage ourselves, and our Leadership Model sets the standard for how we engage with each other.  Whether you are an individual contributor or you lead a large team, each of us leads at SPX.  

What benefits do we offer?

We know that the well-being of our employees is integral. Our benefits include:

• Generous and flexible paid time off including paid personal time off, caregiver, parental, and volunteer leave
• Competitive health insurance plans and 401(k) match, with benefits starting day one
• Competitive and performance-based compensation packages and bonus plans
• Educational assistance, leadership development programs, and recognition programs  

Our commitment to embrace diversity to build a culture of inclusion at SPX

We value different backgrounds, experiences, and voices at SPX, and we are committed to challenging ourselves, openly communicating, and striving to improve every day.  We believe in creating an inclusive work environment where everyone has a voice and is encouraged to realize their fullest potential. 

SPX is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer committed to making selection decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis.