Process Improvement Specialist

As employees of a farmer-owned cooperative, we come to work every day trying to honor the tireless effort and care these farming families put in every day, all day, 365 days a year. Our farmer-owners tend to think in generations, with some of our farms being run by the same families for over a century. We carry this approach into our business, knowing that each and every one of us makes a difference in allowing these generational traditions to continue, taking pride in knowing that we nourish our friends, neighbors, nation, and even the world with healthy and delicious dairy products. Our products include milk, flavored milk, yogurt, dip, sour cream, cottage cheese, Italian cheese, and ice cream mix marketed under the Upstate Farms, Bison, Milk for Life, and Intense Milk brands.

Position Summary: As a Process Improvement Specialist, your primary responsibilities will be to support the Continuous Improvement team through operational data analysis to identify opportunities for improvement and facilitating people-lead change to capitalize on those opportunities. It is expected that someone in this role will become Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certified (training provided) within two years of assuming the role.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Data collection and analysis: Collecting, organizing, and analyzing data from various sources to understand and draw inferences about the factors impacting process performance. This includes both quantitative and qualitative data.

• Statistical modeling: Applying statistical modeling techniques, such as regression analysis and experimental design, to identify and measure the significance of different factors on process outcomes. This will involve interpreting and communicating the results of statistical analyses to stakeholders.

• Process improvement: Collaborating with cross-functional teams to design and implement process improvement initiatives. This will involve using Lean Six Sigma methodologies, such as DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) to identify root causes of process inefficiencies and develop solutions. Encourage cross-functional information sharing, resource leveraging, and collaboration.

• Training and mentoring: Providing training and mentoring to team members and other stakeholders on statistical tools and techniques, as well as Lean Six Sigma methodologies. This may include conducting workshops and providing guidance on how to identify and address process improvement opportunities.

• Project management: Managing and leading process improvement projects from start to finish. This includes developing project plans, setting project goals and objectives, leading project teams, and ensuring successful project implementation. Lean/Six Sigma training will be provided.

• Continuous Improvement Team Support: Support project coaches on management of process improvement teams through digitization of Step 0 documents, process maps, and other meeting materials. Assist with preparation of team closing materials including digitization of reports as well as analyzing and translating team results into visuals.

Qualifications:

Execution:

• Self-starter and quick-learner with superior problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills, as well as a track record for high performance and superior delivery

• Strong quantitative and qualitative skills; detail-oriented with ability to see the big picture

• Outstanding oral and written communication ability across all levels of an organization

• Proficient in MS Office, including Outlook, Excel, Word, Power Point as well as the ability to quickly learn new software

• Be flexible and able to meet tight deadlines and work in multidisciplinary teams

• Have a methodical approach with attention to detail, be able to quickly assess and act on changing priorities

Interpersonal:

• Effective team player with a team-first spirit, enthusiasm, and ability to motivate others coupled with strong presentation, facilitation, and communication skills

• Ability to foster positive relationships, work with, and influence others with different priorities across varying levels in the organization

Leadership:

• Passion to enable others to succeed, constantly praising the success of team leaders and members

• Results-focused with a bias for action

• Encourages open and constructive discussion of issues and challenges

Travel:

• Ability to travel for training and company business required

Education/Certifications:

• A Bachelor's degree is required. An advanced degree in business, engineering, or other technical fields are a plus

Pay = $71,700 - $100,400 *

• The salary range indicated in this posting represents the minimum and maximum of the salary range for this position. Actual salary will vary depending on factors including, but not limited to, budget available, prior experience, knowledge, skill and education as they relate to the position's qualifications, in addition to internal equity. The posted salary range reflects just one component of our total rewards package. Other components of the total rewards package may include participation in group health and/or dental insurance, retirement plan, wellness program, paid time away from work, and paid holidays.

Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc. is committed to equal employment opportunity for all, without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic.