Continuous Improvement Principal Engineer

Continuous Improvement Principal Engineer

Work Mode: Onsite

Location:  Onsite at Huntsville, AL

Opportunity

Foundedin 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wis., Kohler Co. is one of America'soldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in themanufacture of kitchen and bath products, tile and home interiors, and aninternational host to award-winning hospitality and world-class golfdestinations. For more details, please visit http://www.kohlercompany.com.

The position will lead Continuous Improvement efforts and provide engineering analysis for the Huntsville facility. The role serves as an internal consultant for the implementation of the KOS (Kohler Operating System) including coordination of workshop initiatives, tracking of metrics and training.

Specific Responsibilities

Support manufacturing operations in the development and implementation of systems based on the principles of speed and flexibility in flow, reliability and minimum variation in quality, and team-based performance in organizational design.  Participate with Engineers, as an extension of project teams.  Develop, optimize and maintain manufacturing processes as well as administrative processes.  Ensure that training is conducted and teams are facilitated so that proposals may be made for new and improved processes and systems, affecting safety, quality, delivery, cost and associate satisfaction.  Manage the KOS budgeting process through implementation & verification.

KOS Knowledge

• Have advanced knowledge of all facets of KOS or similar lean manufacturing and process improvement methods.  Understands the inter-relationships between the three key facets of KOS (flow, quality, and organization) and how to apply the methodology to both manufacturing and business processes.
• Have a thorough understanding of the Kohler Six-Step Improvement Model or similar problem solving method.
• Demonstrate expert skill in multiple facets of KOS.
• Basic Understanding of Business Process Redesign (BPR), Standard Work, and Quick Die Change (SMED)

Training/Facilitation

• Conduct training on KOS Continuous Improvement tools as well as statistical analysis techniques.
• Act as a team facilitator for internal workshops - teams will consist of administrative/professional and hourly associates, and teams will address tactical problems with a project focus.
• Act as team facilitator for Kaizens, and Business Process Redesign teams.

Special Projects

• Manage the information systems used for project documentation and tracking of key metrics related to KOS implementation.
• Assist in the development and execution of the KOS Strategic Plan.
• Determine individual needs and provide development opportunities for plant team leaders through personal example, coaching, teaching and best practice sharing.
• Assist in the management of all aspects of the external consultant process.

Skills/Requirements

• Bachelors degree in an engineering discipline from an ABET accredited engineering program, or a PE license.
• Advanced technical degree with 10 or more years of related engineering experience required for the Principal Engineer role. Staff engineer roles at Kohler require 8+ years of progressive engineering experience.
• Proven successes using continuous process improvement methods and techniques.
• Training and/or team facilitations experience required.

#LI-Onsite

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Applicants must be authorized to work in the US without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.

The salary range for this Principal Engineer position is $128,000 - $164,550. The specific salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate's experience, their education, and the work location. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision & 401k.

Why Work at Kohler Co.?

Kohler Co.'s mission is to contribute to a higher level of gracious living for those who are touched by our products and services. We understand that it takes investment in our associates' development to make that happen.  So, we offer ongoing investment in each individual's personal development and the opportunity to collaborate with others across functions and roles at Kohler.  

In addition to the investment in your development, Kohler offers a benefits package including a competitive salary, health, vision, dental, 401(k) with company matching, and more!

*Importantupdate for candidates applying to roles within Kohler Energy, including PowerSystems, Engines, Home Energy, Kohler Uninterruptible Power, Clarke Energy,Curtis Instruments, and Heila Technologies. 
On November 6,Kohler Co. announced the strategic decision to establish Kohler Energy as aseparate, independent business with Platinum Equity as the majority investmentpartner. Kohler will continue to stay invested in the Energy business followingthe closing and remains committed to supporting the acceleration of long-termgrowth strategies for both organizations. Talent and operational transitionplans are underway, and Kohler Co. and Platinum Equity expect the agreement toclose in the first half of 2024.Thank you for your interest in joining ourgrowing team as we embark on the next phase of growth!

About Us

Beyond the competitive benefits and compensation, Kohler proudly offers a rich history, steeped in creativity and a commitment to our associates and communities.  We invite you to learn more about our culture and company at www.kohlercompany.com.

It is Kohler's policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified personnel in all job classifications without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.  If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact kohlerjobs@kohler.com.  Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.  

We invite you to learn more about equal employment opportunity by reviewing the Federal EEO is the Law and the EEO is the Law Supplement .