Continuous Improvement Consultant II

Summary

This position supports the Ryder Continuous Improvement culture across the operation by actively applying continuous improvement methods to support new and existing operations. The Engineer will identify and drive change within the operation through data‑driven CI, Engineering, and Automation efforts to deliver higher levels of performance in safety, quality, delivery, and cost. Effectively leverage data analytics, engineering methodologies, and advanced lean tools to enable root cause identification and elimination. This position will interface with employees at all levels and functions across the operation. It reports to the Lead Engineer, CI Manager or Sr. CI Manager and is closely aligned with Operations Management.

Essential Functions

• Collect data and perform statistical analysis. Map and document processes. Independently identify process gaps; recommend and implement process improvement. Develop and manage a thorough, effective, and timely continuous improvement plan to drive value for customers (transformation plan development and execution). Drive process improvement activities to achieve tangible improvement in key business metrics of safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee development.
• Manage and complete CI and steady‑state engineering projects that lead to improved business results. Assess CI initiatives and provide input and recommendations on future activities. Support go‑live and steady‑state certifications. Identify and support automation projects. Regularly interact with operations management and/or customer(s).
• Develop and demonstrate competency in a wide range of engineering methods, lean tools, and quality standards and coach employees in the use and implementation of CI, QA, and lean principles. Apply engineering methodologies/tools such as product slotting, time studies, flow layouts and optimization, data profiling and analysis, and resource modeling to improve distribution and/or transportation operations.
• Facilitate and execute value stream maps and Kaizen Events through all stages (A3 charter ideation/creation, pre‑work identification and completion, delivery of results in Kaizen week, and follow‑up on sustainment). Coach process owners on how to use lean methods to achieve operational excellence.
• Provide regular reports of data and actions to measure progress against site objectives. Make inventory and/or supply chain strategy recommendations.

Additional Responsibilities

• Design, implement, monitor, and maintain the QMS based on established company and/or industry standards.
• Implement and monitor a standardized corrective action system.
• Support regulatory compliance and certification requirements.
• Perform all functions related to quality assurance for a start‑up or expansion.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills & Abilities

• Effective interpersonal skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to create and maintain professional relationships within all levels of the organization.
• Flexibility to operate and be self‑driven to excel in a fast‑paced environment.
• Capable of multi‑tasking, highly organized, with excellent time management skills.
• System and change implementation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a leader or member of a team.
• Ability to manage cross‑functional CI projects from beginning to sustained results.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Business, or Supply Chain Management (required).
• Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering or Supply Chain Management (preferred).
• Five years or more in related work experience in warehousing, transportation, and/or manufacturing (required).
• Microsoft Office Suite skills with emphasis on Access, Excel, PowerPoint, and Visio (expert).
• Data visualization (PowerBI, Tableau, etc.) and database programming (SQL, DAX, etc.) (intermediate preferred).
• Functional experience in developing and managing leader standard work, visual management systems, and management accountability systems, PDCA, value stream mapping, Kaizen, and 5S (beginner required).
• Understanding and experience in core engineering and data analysis functions (slotting, utilization, labor planning, layouts, metrics, etc.) (intermediate required).
• Warehouse design tools such as CAD, slotting (Slot3D), MOST, and warehouse management systems, and labor management systems (intermediate preferred).
• Knowledge of warehouse management operations, data analytics, industrial engineering, warehouse types, and lean methods. Knowledge of material handling solutions and automation types such as powered industrial trucks, racking, and packaging equipment (intermediate preferred).
• Knowledge of dedicated services and managed transportation networks. Knowledge of all available equipment types such as dry van, temperature control, flat bed, and specialized equipment. Transportation design tools such as JDA and Llamasoft (intermediate preferred).
• Lean Six Sigma, PMP, ISO/QMS (preferred).
• APICS and/or supply chain logistics certification (preferred).

Travel

• No travel required.

Compensation Information

Salary range: $95,000 – $100,000. The position is salaried and may be eligible for an annual bonus, commission, and long‑term incentive plan based on level and type.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Ryder is an equal‑opportunity employer. We value diversity and inclusion in the workplace and encourage all qualified candidates to apply, including women, visible minorities, aboriginals, and persons with disabilities. In accordance with our commitment to diversity and inclusion, Ryder welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the recruitment, selection, and assessment process. If you require an accommodation, please inform the Human Resources representative of the nature of the accommodation requested so that we may discuss your needs with you.