Continuous Improvement Engineer

Job Title: Continuous Improvement (CI) Specialist / Manager

Position Summary

We are seeking a results-driven Continuous Improvement (CI) professional with a strong background in the corrugate manufacturing industry. This role is responsible for driving operational excellence through Lean methodologies, Six Sigma principles, and ISO standards. The ideal candidate will lead process optimization initiatives, reduce waste, improve quality, and enhance overall plant performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and implement continuous improvement initiatives across corrugating, converting, and finishing operations
• Analyze production processes to identify inefficiencies, waste, and opportunities for cost reduction • Facilitate Kaizen events, root cause analysis (RCA), and problem-solving sessions
• Drive Lean Manufacturing practices (5S, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, SMED, etc.)
• Utilize Six Sigma tools (DMAIC, SPC, data analysis) to improve process capability and reduce variation
• Ensure compliance with and continuous improvement of ISO standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001)
• Develop and maintain KPIs related to safety, quality, delivery, and cost (SQDC)
• Partner with production, maintenance, and quality teams to implement sustainable improvements
• Train and mentor employees on CI tools, Lean principles, and quality systems
• Lead internal audits and support external ISO audits
• Document and standardize best practices and procedures

Qualifications Required:

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Manufacturing, Operations, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• Minimum 5+ years of experience in continuous improvement or operations within the corrugate or packaging industry
• Strong working knowledge of corrugator operations, box plant processes, and converting equipment
• Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt
• Hands-on experience with ISO standards (ISO 9001 required; ISO 14001 a plus)
• Proven track record of implementing measurable process improvements

Qualifications Preferred:

• Experience in multi-plant or high-volume manufacturing environments
• Familiarity with ERP/MES systems
• Strong statistical and data analysis skills

Work Environment

This role is highly hands-on, with approximately 75% of the time spent on the production floor and 25% at a desk performing analysis and documentation. The environment centers on active manufacturing lines in the packaging industry, where all key information and answers are gathered directly from the floor. The Process Engineer works closely with quality and maintenance teams, who serve as on-the-job subject matter experts, in a culture that values innovation, continuous improvement, and setting trends within the industry rather than settling for the status quo. The business operates in a sector that has experienced continuous growth, driven by expanding eCommerce, and focuses on patented, differentiated products. The overall atmosphere supports collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and a strong connection between engineering and day-to-day operations.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Elmwood Park, NJ.

The pay range for this position is $55.29 - $60.10/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Elmwood Park,NJ.

This position is anticipated to close on May 20, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.