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Continuous Improvement Leader

With our strong investment in research and development and our culture of continuous improvement, Hexcel is the industry leader in the manufacturing of advance composite materials, including carbon fiber, woven reinforcements, resins, prepregs, honeycombs and additive manufactured parts. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various manufacturing sites, sales offices and R&T centers around the globe. Become a part of the “strength within.”

Hexcel is currently seeking a Continuous Improvement (CI) Leader for our Burlington, WA, USA location. The Continuous Improvement Leader will be responsible for leading and driving process optimization initiatives, enhancing efficiency, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organization. This individual will work closely with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for process enhancement, implement lean methodologies, and ensure that improvements align with organizational goals.

Summary pay range:  $115,842 – $198,586 annual salary.

The selected individual will be responsible for but not limited to the following obligations:

  • Process Improvement Leadership: Lead and facilitate continuous improvement initiatives across various departments and business functions. Collaborate with leadership and teams to identify areas for process optimization and operational efficiency. Develop and implement strategies to streamline processes, reduce waste, and enhance productivity.
  • Project Management: Manage improvement projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet desired objectives. Use data-driven methodologies (such as Six Sigma, Lean, Kaizen) to analyze and improve business processes. Track and report project progress, outcomes, and savings to senior management.
  • Training and Coaching: Educate and coach team members and leaders on continuous improvement principles, tools, and methodologies. Provide training and support to teams to help them adopt a culture of continuous improvement. Facilitate workshops, Kaizen events, and other initiatives to empower employees to contribute to process improvements.
  • Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze operational data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for improvement. Prepare and present reports on improvement initiatives and results to senior leadership. Utilize root cause analysis to address issues and improve long-term performance.
  • Change Management: Lead change initiatives, ensuring smooth adoption of new processes and systems within teams. Work closely with department heads to communicate and implement changes effectively. Champion a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field with a Six Sigma or Lean certification. A Master’s degree is a plus.
  • 7+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment; specifically in process improvement, operational excellence, or related roles preferably in highly regulated industry.
  • Proven experience with Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Strong project management skills with a track record of successful project delivery.
  • Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and identify trends.
  • Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficient in data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab, or other related software).
  • Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
  • Demonstrated ability to influence and lead teams through change.
  • Detail-oriented, proactive, and solution-focused.
  • Ability to drive results and create a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.

At Hexcel, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

Hexcel also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Please note that the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Eligible candidates must be a:  U.S. citizen, U.S. national, person lawfully admitted for permanent residence, temporary resident under sections 210(a) or 245(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, person admitted in refugee status, or person granted asylum. Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry.

Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.

Average salary estimate

$157214 / YEARLY (est.)
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$115842K
$198586K

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What You Should Know About Continuous Improvement Leader, Hexcel

At Hexcel, we pride ourselves on pushing the envelope in the realm of advanced composite materials, and we're excited to invite you to be a part of our journey as a Continuous Improvement Leader in Burlington, WA. Here, innovation is at the core of what we do, and your role will be pivotal in leading process optimization initiatives that drive our mission forward. In this position, you'll collaborate with diverse teams to pinpoint opportunities for better efficiency and effectiveness. Your expertise in Lean methodologies and process improvement will empower you to implement strategies that not only streamline our operations but also nurture a culture of continuous enhancement throughout the organization. You will manage projects with a keen eye on deadlines and budgets, using data-driven techniques like Six Sigma and Kaizen to deliver outstanding results. Training and coaching will be key components of your role as you prepare and empower your colleagues to embrace continuous improvement principles. We'll look to you for insightful data analysis, identifying trends and issues that can help steer our operational decisions. If you're someone who thrives in dynamic environments and loves to champion change while making a tangible impact on the team, then we want you at Hexcel. Join us in building a stronger future together and become part of the “strength within.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Continuous Improvement Leader Role at Hexcel
What are the main responsibilities of a Continuous Improvement Leader at Hexcel?

The Continuous Improvement Leader at Hexcel plays a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness. The main responsibilities include leading continuous improvement initiatives across various business functions, collaborating with leadership to identify areas for optimization, managing improvement projects using methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma, training team members on improvement principles, and analyzing operational data to derive insights and trends.

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What qualifications are required for the Continuous Improvement Leader position at Hexcel?

To qualify for the Continuous Improvement Leader position at Hexcel, candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field, with a preference for those with Six Sigma or Lean certification. Additionally, having over 7 years of experience in a manufacturing environment focusing on process improvement, alongside strong project management and analytical skills, is highly desirable.

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What does the training and coaching aspect of the Continuous Improvement Leader role at Hexcel involve?

In the Continuous Improvement Leader role at Hexcel, training and coaching are vital. This involves educating teams on continuous improvement methodologies, facilitating workshops and Kaizen events, and providing ongoing support to help teams adopt a continuous improvement culture. The goal is to empower every employee to contribute towards process enhancements, promoting a proactive problem-solving mindset.

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How does Hexcel evaluate the success of continuous improvement initiatives?

Hexcel evaluates the success of continuous improvement initiatives through thorough tracking of project progress, outcomes, and financial savings. The Continuous Improvement Leader will analyze key performance indicators and operational data, prepare comprehensive reports, and present findings to senior leadership to illustrate the impact of initiatives on organizational goals.

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What characteristics are important for a Continuous Improvement Leader to possess at Hexcel?

A Continuous Improvement Leader at Hexcel should possess strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams. Being detail-oriented, proactive, and solution-focused, along with having a demonstrated ability to influence change and drive results, are essential traits for success in this role.

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Common Interview Questions for Continuous Improvement Leader
Can you describe a successful continuous improvement project you led?

When answering this question, focus on a specific project you led, detailing the objectives, strategies employed, and results achieved. Emphasize your role in leading the project, how you engaged the team, your application of methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma, and the measurable outcomes produced.

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How do you prioritize multiple continuous improvement initiatives?

To effectively prioritize initiatives, explain your approach to assessing impact, feasibility, and alignment with organizational goals. Mention tools or frameworks you use, such as a prioritization matrix, and share a past experience where proper prioritization led to successful outcomes.

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What techniques do you utilize to analyze data for improvement projects?

Discuss specific analytical tools and methodologies you employ to interpret data for process improvements, such as root cause analysis or trend analysis. Highlight your proficiency with software tools like Excel or Minitab, and provide an example of how data analysis led to actionable insights in a previous role.

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How do you ensure buy-in from teams when implementing changes?

Emphasize the importance of communication and engagement when initiating change. Describe your strategy for involving team members in the process, addressing concerns, and presenting the benefits of changes to foster acceptance. Sharing a specific instance of successful change management can strengthen your response.

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What are your strategies for fostering a continuous improvement culture?

Outline your approach to promoting a culture of continuous improvement, focusing on aspects like training, recognition, and empowerment. Talk about how you encourage team members to share ideas and participate actively in improvement initiatives, and the long-term benefits that arise from such a culture.

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Describe your experience with Lean Manufacturing principles.

Provide a clear overview of your practical experience with Lean principles, specifically any training or certifications you have. Discuss how you have successfully implemented Lean techniques in past roles and the quantifiable improvements that resulted from those initiatives.

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How do you manage resistance to change within teams?

Discuss your understanding of resistance as a natural response and your strategies to address it, such as open communication, involving team members in decision-making, and demonstrating the value of proposed changes. Share an example where you successfully navigated resistance and steered teams toward acceptance.

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What role does leadership play in continuous improvement at Hexcel?

Highlight the significance of leadership in modeling behavior, providing resources, and actively engaging in continuous improvement efforts. Discuss how effective leadership can inspire teams, create an environment for innovation, and encourage collaboration towards common goals.

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Can you explain how you utilize Six Sigma in your work?

Be specific about your experiences with Six Sigma methodologies. Talk about projects where you used Six Sigma tools, such as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control), and how this approach contributed to successful outcomes in process optimization.

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What metrics do you use to measure the success of continuous improvement efforts?

Discuss the key performance indicators (KPIs) you typically track, such as cycle time reduction, cost savings, quality improvements, and customer satisfaction. Emphasize how these metrics help assess the effectiveness of your initiatives and guide future improvements.

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Hexcel is a leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry. We support our customers in the commercial aerospace, space and defen...

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April 4, 2025

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