Continuous Improvement Engineer

Job Title: Continuous Improvement (CI) Engineer

Location: Tenneco – Blacksburg, VA
Department: Operations/Engineering
Reports To: Plant Manager or CI Manager

Position Summary:

The Continuous Improvement (CI) Engineer is responsible for driving operational excellence and process improvement initiatives across the Blacksburg manufacturing facility. This role supports plant leadership and cross-functional teams in identifying inefficiencies, reducing waste, improving product flow, and increasing overall productivity using Lean Manufacturing principles.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, support, and facilitate Continuous Improvement (CI) projects aligned with plant goals and business priorities
• Partner with operations, quality, maintenance, and engineering teams to identify and eliminate waste through process analysis and Lean tools (Kaizen, 5S, VSM, SMED, Standard Work, etc.)
• Conduct time studies, root cause analyses, and process audits to recommend and implement process enhancements
• Support the Tenneco Business System (TBS) and drive Lean Six Sigma methodologies
• Lead and facilitate Kaizen events and Rapid Improvement Workshops (RIWs)
• Develop visual management tools and performance tracking systems
• Train and coach team members at all levels on Lean tools and CI best practices
• Assist with cost savings initiatives, KPI tracking, and reporting progress to leadership
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and employee involvement

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment (automotive experience preferred)
• Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and root cause problem-solving tools
• Strong communication and facilitation skills across all organizational levels
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with Minitab, Power BI, or Visio a plus
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification preferred (or willingness to obtain)

Work Environment:

• Primarily plant-floor-based with regular interaction with production, maintenance, and quality personnel
• Fast-paced, hands-on environment requiring flexibility and the ability to manage multiple priorities

Why Join Us?

Tenneco is a global leader in performance and emissions solutions, and at our Blacksburg facility, you will play a critical role in driving process excellence. Join a team committed to innovation, safety, and continuous improvement.