Continuous Improvement Engineer II

WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $90,000 to $120,000 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.
SUMMARY
The Continuous Improvement Engineer II plays a key role in advancing Redwire Defense Tech’s operational performance by applying continuous improvement methodologies to optimize processes, eliminate waste, and enhance overall effectiveness. This role fosters a culture of improvement and innovation by championing CI tools, facilitating problem‑solving activities, and deploying best practices across teams and functions.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.
Help create and maintain the framework, standards, and processes for improvement activities, including workshops, projects, and idea pipeline management.
Support the development and execution of the site’s strategic Continuous Improvement (CI) plan.
Identify required resources for improvement initiatives and collaborate with sponsors to secure their support.
Lead and implement improvement projects using CI methodologies such as Lean and Six Sigma to reduce waste, improve flow, and enhance operational performance.
Drive sustainment of CI activities through effective change management practices, coaching, and monitoring.
Support and lead cross-functional or multi-site strategic projects.
Communicate effectively with management and team members; actively seek to understand challenges and provide structured problem‑solving support.
Share lessons learned, project results, and best practices with leadership and key stakeholders to strengthen organizational learning.
Develop and deliver training on CI tools and concepts (e.g., White Belt, Lean basics, 5S+1, process mapping, root-cause analysis, etc.).
Coach and facilitate improvement projects (DMAIC, PDCA, 8D, etc.) across departments based on site priorities.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
The following are a non-exhaustive list of qualifications for the position:
Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Business/Operations Management.
2+ years of experience in Continuous Improvement, Manufacturing/Operations, Supply Chain, Quality, Engineering, Logistics, or Production Planning.
Working knowledge of project management and risk management principles.