SUMMARY
The Process Improvement Technician is instrumental in driving manufacturing excellence by supporting and leading process improvement initiatives. Acting as a proactive problem solver and collaborator, this role works closely with cross-functional teams to facilitate process trials, optimize workflows, and support product commercialization efforts. With a strong focus on Lean methodologies and data-driven problem solving, the Process Improvement Technician helps embed a continuous improvement culture that enhances quality, reduces waste, and improves operational efficiency. Additionally, this position provides technical support, training, and clear communication to production teams, ensuring safe, consistent, and efficient manufacturing processes. This position works Monday - Friday, 8am to 4pm with flexible starting/ending times and will train at the Sartori Whey Facility before being based out of the East Main Facility.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Process Optimization and Continuous Improvement: Actively partners with operations and support teams to identify and execute opportunities for improving production processes. This includes facilitating Lean Manufacturing initiatives such as 5S, Standard Work, Changeover Reduction, and Kaizen events, aimed at reducing waste, improving flow, and enhancing line efficiency.
- Technical Support and Troubleshooting: Provides on-floor technical support for daily production challenges by analyzing process variables, escalating issues when needed, and contributing to root cause investigations. Assists in implementing corrective actions to reduce downtime, improve quality, and stabilize performance across processing lines.
- Process Trials and Product Commercialization: Working closely with cross-functional teams, including Process Engineering, Operations, and R&D, supports new product introductions by coordinating and executing plant trials. They assist in scaling processes from pilot to full production, ensuring quality and efficiency standards are met during commercialization.
- Standard Work and Documentation: Contributes to the development and optimization of standard operating procedures to ensure consistent and efficient operation of equipment. They help build documentation that supports operator training and reinforces safe, standardized work practices.
- Performance Metrics and Data Monitoring: Maintains production and process-related data to track key performance indicators. Use information to drive focused improvements in cost, quality, delivery, and team engagement.
- Capital and Equipment Implementation Support Supports capital equipment installations by assisting with training and process integration
during start-up phases. Collaborates with engineering and maintenance teams to ensure proper operation and handoff of new technologies into daily production.
- Safety, Quality, and Compliance Responsible for supporting and maintaining food safety and quality standards through active participation in issue resolution, process audits, and preventive actions. Any concerns related to food safety or product quality are escalated promptly to the appropriate team members.
DIRECT REPORTS
This position is not responsible for direct reports.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
- High School Diploma or GED is required.
- Minimum of 1 year of experience leading project teams is preferred.
- Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC), Lean Manufacturing, and 6 Sigma is highly preferred.
- Converting experience is highly desired.
OTHER KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Alignment with Company Values – Embodies Sartori's values of family, commitment, authenticity, ingenuity, integrity, and humility in leadership and decision-making.
- Results-Oriented: Demonstrates a strong focus on achieving measurable improvements in operational performance and cost-efficiency.
- Analytical Thinking: Applies logical reasoning and data analysis to identify trends, draw conclusions, and support decision-making.
- Innovative Problem Solver: Brings forward creative, practical solutions to challenges, addressing root causes and driving sustainable improvements.
- Organized & Detail-Oriented: Approaches tasks methodically with attention to detail, maintaining accuracy and consistency in documentation and execution.
- Impact Awareness: Understands the broader goals of the organization and aligns daily work with long-term improvement initiatives.
- Collaboration & Teamwork: Builds strong working relationships across departments and contributes effectively in cross-functional environments.
- Coaching Mindset: Shares knowledge and supports skill development of peers to build team.
- Influential: Inspires engagement, accountability, and a continuous improvement mindset within teams.
- Initiative & Ownership: Takes proactive action to identify opportunities, support projects, and ensure progress without requiring direction.
- Commitment to Quality: Adheres to and promotes high standards for food safety, product quality, and compliance with internal and external standards.
- Lean Manufacturing Knowledge: Familiar with Lean tools and practices including 5S, Standard Work, Changeover Reduction, Visual Management, Kaizen, and Root Cause Analysis.
- Technical Aptitude: Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), and experience with JD Edwards or similar ERP systems.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
WORK LOCATION
This is an on-site position based at our Sartori Whey facility in Plymouth, WI.
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
Occasional travel may be required to meet the needs of the business (estimated 5%).
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Team Member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The Team Member is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The Team Member must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those a Team Member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
When entering the production facility, the Team Member is occasionally exposed to cold working conditions and/or moving mechanical parts. The noise level is moderate while in the plant.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by Team Members assigned to this work. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. Sartori Company reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet organizational and business needs as necessary.
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Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
