First Quality was founded in 1989 and has grown to be a global privately held company with over 4,000 employees. Its corporate offices are located in Great Neck, New York, with manufacturing facilities and offices in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Georgia, and Canada. First Quality is a diversified family of companies manufacturing consumer products ranging from Absorbent Hygiene (adult incontinence, feminine care, and baby care), Tissue (bath and towel), and Industrial (print and packaging materials), serving institutional and retail markets throughout the world. First Quality focuses on private label and branded product lines.
We are seeking a Six Sigma Black Belt to join the First Quality Print & Packaging team as our new Continuous Improvement Optimization Lead to focus on transforming our manufacturing landscape by integrating Six Sigma methodologies with cutting edge digital tools and technologies. The role requires solid grounding in manufacturing processes and statistical analysis, and will also drive to embed technology into the fabric of continuous improvement efforts in order to achieve digital process optimization.
Responsibilities:
Conduct comprehensive analyses of current manufacturing processes, leveraging IoT, AI, and machine learning to uncover inefficiencies and areas ripe for digital enhancement.
Design and deploy advanced Six Sigma and Lean strategies, augmented by digital tools, to streamline processes, enhance quality, and elevate cost-effectiveness.
Work collaboratively with IT, IS, and engineering teams to integrate smart technologies that support process improvements and operational excellence.
Apply sophisticated statistical software and predictive analytics to gather, scrutinize, and interpret complex data streams from manufacturing operations.
Utilize AI-driven analytics to uncover patterns, predict future process behaviors, and inform strategic decisions with actionable intelligence.
Implement and oversee quality standards, incorporating real-time monitoring systems and digital quality control mechanisms to ensure product integrity.
Lead in-depth root cause analyses utilizing digital tools, followed by the deployment of corrective/preventive actions to mitigate future risks.
Champion technological innovation within continuous improvement initiatives, exploring and applying advancements in manufacturing tech to drive efficiency and reduce costs.
Conduct technology-enhanced process audits and performance evaluations, identifying next-gen solutions for operational enhancement.
Spearhead process improvement projects with a digital-first approach, outlining project scopes that integrate tech solutions from inception through to execution.
Utilize digital project management tools to track progress, adjust to changing dynamics, and achieve milestones with precision.
Maintain meticulous records of digital transformation efforts, process upgrades, and outcomes, utilizing cloud-based documentation tools for real-time updates.
Generate insightful reports and dashboards that detail project trajectories, performance metrics, and improvements, ensuring transparent communication with all stakeholders.
Partner with Operations, IT and IS to standardize and support the roll-out of cross-functional initiatives, such as, but not limited to Automation Solutions, Manufacturing Data Analytics and Operations Technology Security (OTS).
Conduct industry research and provide thought leadership in the field of automation technology to introduce new technologies that could become or contribute to breakthrough innovations for manufacturing and information processes.
Train/Coach/Mentor employees at all levels of the organization on the tools and methods that support a continuous improvement culture.
Until process and technology improvements can be implemented the role will need to execute some operational processes to ensure day to day business operational success.
In the future may supervise a small team of engineers or other technical talent
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, with a preference for Mechanical, Industrial, Automation or Manufacturing focus; Advanced degree a plus
Six Sigma Black Belt certification required; emphasis on digital tools and methodologies preferred
Minimum of 7 years of experience in manufacturing or industrial process engineering
Proven track record of designing and implementing successful automation solutions, digital process optimization and continuous improvement
Familiarity with Manufacturing 4.0 concepts and technology implementations, including connected equipment, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning
Knowledge of manufacturing regulatory standards (ISO 9001, FDA) is desirable, along with experience in Lean Manufacturing principles and digital innovation practices
Expertise in statistical analysis tools (e.g., Minitab, JMP) and familiarity with digital analytics platforms
Experience leading cross-functional teams and driving technology-centered process improvement projects
Exceptional analytical skills, capable of deciphering complex datasets and translating them into actionable digital strategies
Strong communication skills, adept at liaising with both technical teams and business stakeholders
Solid project management skills, with a knack for navigating tight deadlines and delivering impactful results in a timely manner
First Quality is committed to protecting information under the care of First Quality Enterprises commensurate with leading industry standards and applicable regulations. As such, First Quality provides at least annual training regarding data privacy and security to employees who, as a result of their role specifications, may come in to contact with sensitive data.
First Quality is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identification, or protected Veteran status.