Continuous Improvement Manager
Lake Charles, LA - USA
Job Summary
Shape Your World
At Alcoa you will become an essential part of our purpose: to turn raw potential into real progress. The way we see it every Alcoan is a work-shaper team-shaper idea-shaper & world-shaper.
At Alcoa you have the opportunity to shape how work gets doneturning improvement ideas into real operational impact. As a Continuous Improvement Manager you will play a key role in advancing continuous improvement across the plant applying Lean Manufacturing and the Alcoa Business System (ABS) to enhance performance eliminate waste and strengthen how teams operate. This is a high-impact role for someone energized by solving problems influencing others and driving measurable change in a manufacturing environment.
About the role
You will lead and execute continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations using Lean and ABS methodologies to optimize processes improve quality and efficiency and reduce waste. Working closely with cross-functional teams you will identify operational bottlenecks lead improvement projects from concept through implementation and help build a stronger continuous improvement culture that drives sustainable plant performance.
Key responsibilities:
- Lead the deployment of Lean and ABS initiatives using structured methodologies (PDCA DMAIC) to deliver sustainable operational improvements
- Map and analyze processes (value stream mapping process flow) to identify waste constraints and optimization opportunities
- Deliver improvement projects aligned to plant cost productivity and efficiency targets
- Implement and sustain daily and visual management systems to support performance tracking and operational discipline
- Drive structured problem-solving using data KPIs and Lean tools to identify root causes and implement effective solutions
- Lead cross-functional initiatives and coach teams on Lean practices to strengthen capability and build a continuous improvement culture
What you bring to the role:
- Bachelors degree in Engineering Manufacturing Project Management or a related field providing a strong foundation for process improvement work
- 4 years of experience leading process improvement initiatives with ownership of operational performance and project delivery
- Experience implementing continuous improvement systems within production environments supported by strong knowledge of manufacturing processes and Lean principles (Six Sigma Green Belt preferred)
- Proven ability to lead influence and collaborate across teams to drive change resolve challenges and deliver results
- Advanced analytical and project management skills including proficiency with tools such as Excel and Power BI to translate data into actionable improvements
- Proactive results-driven mindset with strong problem-solving skills and a commitment to safe work practices in a manufacturing environment
What we offer:
- Competitive compensation packages including pay-for-performance variable pay recognition and rewards programs.
- 401(k) employer match up to 6% additional employer retirement income contribution (no vesting period).
- Healthcare benefits: medical Rx dental vision flexible spending account health savings account (generous employer contribution) life and accident insurance.
- Work-life balance programs: flexible work scheduling hybrid/remote working.
- Paid time off: 15 vacation days prorated in the 1st year based on hire date 12 paid holidays 7 illness days Care for Family leave up to 40 days up to 5 bereavement days maximum of 30 jury duty days and up to 10 days annual training for military leave.
#LI-PW1
About the Location
Just about halfway from Houston and New Orleans Alcoas Lake Charles Carbon Plant is located in historic Lake Charles LA. The city of Lake Charles is a growing city with a vibrant art cultural and dining scene. Parks scattered throughout the city and easy access to shimmering Lake Charles via our beautiful Lakefront Promenade call to outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. One of the most prominent aspects of Cajun culture and Southern charm is the natural willingness for people to go out of their way to treat company or complete strangers like family.
We are values led vision driven and united by our purpose of transforming raw potential into real commitments to Inclusion Diversity & Equity include providing trusting workplaces that are safe respectful and inclusive of all individuals free from discrimination bullying and harassment and that our workplaces reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate.
As a proud equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer Alcoa is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of a persons gender age race ethnicity sexual orientation gender identity religion nation of origin disability veteran status language spoken or any other characteristic or status protected by the laws or regulations in the places where we operate.
If you have visited our website in search of information on U.S. employment opportunities or to apply for a position and you require an accommodation please contact Alcoa Recruiting via email at
This is a place where you are empowered to do your best work be your authentic self and feel a true sense of belonging. Come join us and shape your career!
Your work. Your world. Shape them for the better.
Required Experience:
Manager
About Company
Discover how Alcoa is reinventing the aluminum industry through sustainable products and processes, environmental stewardship, and equitable career opportunities.