We are Generac, a leading energy technology company committed to powering a smarter world.

Over the 60 plus years of Generac’s history, we’ve been dedicated to energy innovation. From creating the home standby generator market category, to our current evolution into an energy technology solutions company, we continue to push new boundaries.

Primary Purpose

The Director Continuous Improvement (CI) is responsible for leading and managing the deployment of Generac CI tools, methodologies, standards and processes across the enterprise. With a focus on lean methodology and tools to eliminate waste in all administrative, operations, and support functions, this role designs, coordinates, and delivers practical, hands-on training and project execution to instill a continuous improvement culture throughout the organization. Develops and executes strategies that are deployed through the Generac CI teams to eliminate waste across the enterprise with a standardized approach towards problem solving (tools and methods) and daily continuous improvement. Works closely with cross-functional teams at all the Generac facilities.

Major Responsibilities

• Instill a continuous improvement culture throughout the organization with a standardized approach towards problem solving (tools and methods) and daily continuous improvement

• Work with the business leaders to identify and document process gaps to generate continuous improvement plans which will be facilitated by the CI teams

• Facilitate enterprise level Kaizen events for processes that have a cross-functional impact to eliminate waste, reduce cycle time and improve the Generac business

• Complete strategic projects and continuous improvement events in alignment with the strategic deployment plan

• Develop, maintain, and deploy Generac CI tools, methodologies, standards and processes utilizing customer demand operating principles across the enterprise through focused CI training programs

• Develop and implement training strategy that will optimize lean processes, practices, policies, standards and metrics that meet or exceed company business objectives

• Ensures the development and execution of strategies to build CI competence and adherence in transactional and 4-wall areas

• Grow the Generac Lean Academy (GLA), and ensure that the GLA delivers practical, hands-on training focused on lean methodology and problem solving in order to eliminate waste in all administrative, operations and support functions

• Work cross functionally with the business leaders at all the Generac global facilities to identify organizational needs, train and coach candidates on lean and continuous improvement methods, mentor candidates to program completion and certification

• Develop, motivate, monitor and lead the team of CI managers with an emphasis on championing the goals, objectives and improvement plans across the business

Minimum Job Requirements

Education

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Certification / License

Work Experience

• 7 years of experience in a manufacturing operations environment

• 10 years of experience in implementing Lean or Lean Sigma tools and concepts

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Ability to travel up to 30%

• Ability to understand financial measurements and goals in the lean enterprise

• Demonstrated ability to influence senior management, teams and individuals across multiple cultures, disciplines and geographies

• Strong problem-solving skills; the ability to ask the right questions, help frame logical conclusions and arrive at effective solutions

• Strong verbal and written communication competencies

Preferred Job Requirements

Education

• Master's degree

Certification / License

• Lean and Six Sigma or equivalent certification

Work Experience

• Multi-site manufacturing experience

• Experience in demand flow principles and plan for every part methodologies

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Knowledge of ERP/MRP (SAP/ORACLE)

Physical Demands : While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls. The employee is regularly required to stand and walk. On occasion the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend or reach above the shoulders. The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 - 50 pounds. Specific conditions of this job are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision and ability to adjust focus. Occasional travel.

“We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.”

Our success is directly tied to our employees’ professional growth and personal well-being, combined with strong families and communities. As an inclusive workplace, our employees embrace diversity, celebrate differences, and treat others with equality and respect.

Over the 60 plus years of Generac’s history, we’ve been dedicated to energy innovation. From creating the home standby generator market category, to our current evolution into an energy technology solutions company, we continue to push new boundaries.

As one of the leaders and largest suppliers of power generation equipment and technology, the work we do touches millions of lives. Employees at Generac are encouraged to be innovative and are valued as an integral part of our global team. Our challenging goals develop knowledgeable employees dedicated to helping continue Generac’s success. Generac provides individuals the opportunity to work in a fast-paced agile work environment where their work makes a difference in people’s lives and their own.