Continuous Improvement Engineer
Date: May 14, 2026
Location: Hemlock, MI, US, 48626
Company: Corning
Requisition Number: 74880
**The company built on breakthroughs. **
**Join us. **
Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations – not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward.
At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.
Come break through with us.
Our Solar business delivers industry leading, U.S.-made solar components. We manufacture hyper-pure polysilicon, high-quality solar wafers, and innovative photovoltaic modules, leveraging our leadership in advanced manufacturing to serve growing energy demand. You will be a part of advancing critical U.S. supply chains and delivering unmatched quality and reliability to customers.
Role Purpose
The Continuous Improvement Engineer will aim to enhance operational performance by integrating lean manufacturing initiatives and analytical tools within the organization. This position will coordinate and lead a wide range of activities that are designed to improve on-time delivery, productivity, quality, cost, safety and environmental performance. Drive the implementation of Lean fundamental competencies (Value Stream Maps, Visual Performance Metrics, WPO, Kaizen, Work Standardization, Gemba Engagement). The successful candidate will develop and implement systems, procedures, and projects required to successfully accomplish plant, divisional, and corporate goals/objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Facilitate and promote a culture of continuous improvement activities via Mini Kaizens, Kaizen Blitzes, value stream mapping exercises, DMAIC projects & through daily interaction with employees from all levels of the organization.
Coordinate with different departments to identify opportunities for process improvements.
Lead and assist in the implementation of new engineering processes and technology.
Apply engineering expertise to develop, implement, and improve quality management systems and protocols.
Conduct root cause analysis to determine metrics, troubleshoot manufacturing/ business and assembly issues, material flow, project plans, production capacity, facility design and create process documentation.
Perform process audits and establish audit controls and frequencies.
Develop metrics and reporting systems necessary to track progress and maintains record of project status.
Develop & implement sustainable 5S, visual control, Load Smoothing, Single Minute Exchange of Die (SMED), Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), & other Lean programs.
Utilize lean manufacturing principles and participate in action workouts to improve process capability, reduce overall costs and increase capacity.
Develop and enhance visual production KPIs utilizing dashboards within Power BI and Excel.
Facilitate the planning and implementation of workplace flow & layout, as well as equipment installations, modifications, and moves according to Lean concepts.
Work Hours
Standard Hours (Monday – Friday, 8am-5pm)
Flexible hours may be required to support weekends/evenings operations requirements
Education & Experience
Bachelor's degree in engineering and/or equivalent experience
2-4 years of manufacturing experience
Experience with VBA, SQL, Excel, Access, SAP, Power BI and Simulation software
Knowledge of manufacturing methods, systems, and production processes
Required Skills
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal
Strong process- and results-oriented mindset with a focus on execution and outcomes
Deep understanding and practical application of Lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies
Strong analytical problem-solving skills, including root cause analysis and development of effective, sustainable solutions
Proven ability to lead and drive change, influencing stakeholders to understand, adopt, and sustain new processes
High attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in process implementation, data analysis, and results evaluation
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal
Strong process- and results-oriented mindset with a focus on execution and outcomes
Deep understanding and practical application of Lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies
Strong analytical problem-solving skills, including root cause analysis and development of effective, sustainable solutions
Proven ability to lead and drive change, influencing stakeholders to understand, adopt, and sustain new processes
High attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in process implementation, data analysis, and results evaluation
Desired Skills
Proven experience managing projects from conception through completion, ensuring timelines, milestones, and deliverables are achieved
Ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams in a manufacturing or engineering environment
Thrives in a fast-paced environment and adapts quickly to changing priorities and business needs
Working knowledge of industry quality standards and regulatory requirements
Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with the ability to leverage data to drive strategic outcomes
Demonstrates a strong Industrial Engineering mindset, with a focus on process optimization and continuous improvement
Six Sigma Black Belt or equivalent continuous improvement certification (preferred)
Understanding of project financials and/or manufacturing cost management principles
Familiarity with innovation frameworks, including Stage-Gate or similar product development processes
Soft Skills
Communicates effectively across all levels of the organization, including engineers, production associates, and leadership
Collaborates effectively in a team-oriented environment
Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and initiative
Demonstrates strong presentation and communication skills
Effectively manages multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Exhibits a high level of commitment, reliability, and accountability
Builds strong relationships and communicates clearly with management
This position does not support immigration sponsorship.
The range for this position is $102,848.00 - $141,416.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.
**A job that shapes a life. **
**Corning offers you the total package. **
Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.
Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.
Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.
We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.
Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at.
Nearest Major Market: Saginaw