Continuous Improvement Engineer

We’re excited to invite you to apply for the Continuous Improvement Engineer position at Just Born, Inc. As a family-owned business and the 11th largest candy manufacturer in the U.S.*, we’ve been spreading joy since 1923 from our Pennsylvania headquarters. (*Circana)

Our iconic brands—MIKE AND IKE, HOT TAMALES, GOLDENBERG’S PEANUT CHEWS, and the world-famous PEEPS—delight candy lovers everywhere.

If you’re ready to help us fulfill our mission of Bringing Sweetness to People’s Lives!, we can’t wait to hear from you!

Position Summary

The Continuous Improvement Engineer will be a change agent driving Just Born’s productivity and operational efficiency through project leadership, process improvement, and the implementation of lean methodologies.

This position focuses on optimizing manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution systems while fostering behavioral change to support a culture of continuous improvement.

Location: Bethlehem, PA

How You’ll Impact Results

• Process Optimization:
• Develop, standardize, and document processes to improve operational efficiency and promote consistent implementation and training.
• Utilize lean methodologies to identify inefficiencies, implement solutions, and enhance overall equipment effectiveness.
• Use of technical knowledge to design efficient processes considering human capabilities, associate safety, food quality, and machine capabilities/limitations.
• Project Leadership:
• Lead cross-functional teams to conceptualize and execute lean and continuous improvement projects.
• Employ structured root cause analysis to resolve business challenges and promote best practices across the end to end supply chain.
• Collaboration & Problem Solving:
• Partner with teams across all levels to address operational challenges, provide structured problem-solving tools, improve safety, and enhance productivity.
• Collaborate across departments bringing people together to solicit input to share best practices and foster a collaborative work environment.
• Systems Design & Control:
• Develop and implement management systems for operational planning, cost analysis, and production scheduling to ensure product quality and efficiency.
• Operational Support:
• Serve as a resource for the manufacturing leadership team, addressing needs related to safety, environmental concerns, and operational improvements.
• Continuous Improvement Culture Advocacy:
• Promote a culture of respect and continuous improvement aligned with Just Born’s vision and values.
• Lead by example through training, professional development, and participation in community initiatives.
  
  

Your Qualifications That Will Ensure Success

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Industrial, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering.
• Experience:
• 5+ years in industrial/process engineering or continuous improvement within manufacturing.
• Experience within Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) and/or Food and beverage industries is highly preferred
• Familiarity with food/beverage manufacturing standards, GMP/cGMP environments, food safety, and people safety.
  

Skills

• Proven leadership and project management experience with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in various lean methodologies, leading CI initiatives/Kaizens, and a strong level of curiosity to solve production problems and ambiguous situations.
• Expertise in Microsoft Office Suite, AutoCAD, and SAP, with an aptitude for learning new technologies.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively at all organizational levels.
• Attributes: Ability to manage multiple priorities, work in a high speed multi-priority environment, and adapt quickly to changing business needs.
  
  

Just Born is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer: Female / Minority / Disability / Protected Veteran / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity

Our Pledge To Diversity, Equity And Inclusion

At Just Born Quality Confections, we pledge to create a workplace where associates feel inspired to bring their whole selves to work.

We are committed to acting boldly with integrity, authenticity, and humility to listen, learn and grow. Part of this commitment includes creating an equitable environment for all associates and advocating for those whose voices are historically and chronically marginalized.

Our purpose is to bring sweetness to people’s lives and can only be fully realized by pledging to value all people, all races, all cultures, all religions, all love, all genders and all abilities, because Together We Are Better.