Title:  Manufacturing Continuous Improvement Specialist

As a Manufacturing Continuous Improvement Specialist, you will take a new approach to what might otherwise be considered the status quo. This role is not solely about keeping the plant running smoothly; it is about contributing to the entire organization's success through strategic, long-term improvements. You will be empowered to lead change, drive innovation, and make a measurable impact on plant performance.

This is an on-site position at our Kansas City, Kansas, plant. You will be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking team that values continuous improvement and operational excellence. This role offers the opportunity to lead high-impact projects, work closely with cross-functional teams, and engage with leadership. You will gain valuable experience in strategic problem-solving, data analysis, and process optimization.

A Taste of What You’ll Be Doing

• Support and Lead Productivity Projects – You will take charge of the Key Strategic Unit Measures productivity projects. Collaborate closely with the Continuous Improvement Manager and the Engineering Team from conceptualization to implementation. You will lead at least two cost savings projects annually.
• Strategize to Win & Impacting Results - Continually collaborate with hourly and salary personnel to identify and troubleshoot chronic losses utilizing data analysis and root cause problem-solving techniques. Utilizing Kellanova Work Systems and tools to reduce the source of loss and drive out inefficiencies within the manufacturing process.
• CI Problem-Solving Tools—As a Continuous Improvement Process Owner team member, utilize problem-solving tools to drive improvements in Overall Equipment Effectiveness. These tools may include Six Sigma, Lean, and Total Productive Maintenance methodologies.
• Autonomous Maintenance Center of Excellence Involvement – You will play a key role in the Autonomous Maintenance COE. Support the plant’s progression in implementing Autonomous Maintenance practices. Work closely with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities, implement changes, and track progress.
• Daily KPLAS Data Audits and KPI Ownership – You will regularly audit Key Performance Leading and Supporting data to monitor plant performance. Take ownership or lead monthly Key Performance Indicators aligned with CI projects to drive Overall Equipment Effectiveness improvements.
• Lead Strategic Productivity Projects—In collaboration with the Continuous Improvement Manager and Engineering Team, take charge of Key Strategic Unit Measures productivity projects from conceptualization to implementation. Lead at least two cost savings projects annually.
• Analyze and Solve Chronic Losses—Collaborate with hourly and salaried personnel to identify and troubleshoot chronic losses using data analysis and root-cause problem-solving techniques. Utilize Kellanova Work Systems tools to reduce sources of loss and eliminate inefficiencies.
• Apply Continuous Improvement Methodologies – As a member of the Continuous Improvement Process Owner team, I use tools such as Six Sigma, Lean, and Total Productive Maintenance to improve overall equipment effectiveness.
• Support Autonomous Maintenance Initiatives – Play a key role in the Autonomous Maintenance Center of Excellence. Support the plant’s progression in implementing Autonomous Maintenance practices by working with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities, implement changes, and track progress.
• Own Key Performance Indicators and Data Audits—Regularly audit Key Performance Indicators and supporting data to monitor plant performance. Take ownership of or lead monthly Key Performance Indicators aligned with continuous improvement projects to drive Overall Equipment Effectiveness improvements.

We’re Looking for Someone With

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, or a related technical field, or a high school diploma or GED with significant related experience
• Proven experience leading continuous improvement projects (Lean, Total Productive Maintenance, Six Sigma, Kellanova Work Systems, Integrated Work Systems, High-Performance Organization)
• Demonstrated ability to influence and lead cross-functional teams across all levels of the organization
• Experience in driving continuous improvement initiatives and solving complex operational challenges
• A passion for innovation, a proactive mindset, and a commitment to being a change agent

Compensation

The annual salary range is $78,600 - $103,215, which is based on various factors such as location, experience, and skill. Discretionary bonuses based on company and individual performance are also available.

What’s Next

Applications for this position will be accepted through June 3, 2025. After you apply, your application will be reviewed by a real recruiter, so it may take us a few weeks to get back with you by email or phone. Visit our How We Hire page to get insights into our hiring process and more about what we offer. All applicants must have permanent legal authorization to work in the United States. Kellanova does not sponsor employment visas for this role.

Need assistance throughout the application or hiring process? Email USA.Recruitment@Kellanova.com.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death & dismemberment insurance, employee assistance program, short-term disability coverage, and long-term disability insurance. Also, voluntary income protection benefits such as supplemental life, accident, as well as a 401(k) plan with company contributions, are available. Part-time employees may have access to benefits on a prorated basis. KellanovaTotalHealth.com for more information.

Get to Know Us

At Kellanova, we are driven by our vision to be the world’s best-performing snacks-led powerhouse, unleashing the full potential of our differentiated brands and our passionate people. Our portfolio of iconic, world-class brands includes Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts, MorningStar Farms, Special K, Krave, Zucaritas, Tresor, Crunchy Nut, among others.

Kellanova’s Culture of Best means we bring our best to all that we do in pursuit of our vision to be the world’s best performing snacks-led powerhouse. Our culture celebrates boldness and empowers our people to challenge the status quo, achieve results, and win together.

Our focus on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) enables us to build a culture of belonging where all employees have a place at the table and are inspired to share their passion, talents, and ideas at work.

Mars has agreed to acquire Kellanova in a combination that will shape the future of snacking! The transaction is anticipated to close within the first half of 2025 (subject to Kellanova shareowner approval and other customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals). The companies remain separate until closing.

You can learn more at www.futureofsnacking.com, and our hiring teams will be happy to discuss further questions if your application advances in the hiring process.

What does it take to be the best? Someone like you.

Kellanova is an Equal Opportunity Employer that strives to provide an inclusive work environment, a seat for everyone at the table, and embraces the diverse talent of its people. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding our efforts to advance Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, please visit our website here.