CI Coordinator

Description

The Continuous Improvement Coordinator is a hands-on floor execution leader who owns CI project delivery end-to-end — from opportunity identification and financial validation, through plant-level buy-in and implementation, to verified sustained results.

This is a hands-on role with a strong presence on the production floor, balanced with time spent on analysis, planning, and project execution. The role works closely with floor associates to drive and sustain operational improvements.  

Primary Duties & Responsibilities: 

Project Execution (High Velocity)

• Opportunity Identification: Conduct time studies and workflow analysis; identify labor and process inefficiencies; quantify savings opportunity.
• Financial Validation: Confirm savings logic with Finance and plant leadership; establish performance baselines prior to launch.
• Execution & Implementation: Implement line balancing, staffing adjustments, standard work, and visual controls; monitor early-stage performance daily.
• Buy-In & Change Leadership: Align plant managers, supervisors, leads, and operators; drive bottom-up engagement and accountability.
• Sustainment & Verification: Validate post-implementation performance; conduct 60–90 day sustainment audits; close projects only after financial validation — not on implementation date.

Best-in-Class Impact Abilities (Proven Economic Drivers)

• Uses PDCA/ thinking to test changes quickly and avoid opinion-based decisions — every change is a hypothesis with measurable validation.
• Builds habits of daily improvement and coaching in frontline leaders — sustainment over heroics embedding CI into daily management.
• Reinforces principle-based behaviors (respect for every individual, process focus, transparency) that sustain results long after the event ends.
• Financial ownership discipline: Validates savings with Finance, tracks baseline-to-target performance and ensures no soft claims.
• Cross-site replication mindset: Documents and shares successful implementations so wins scale across the network.

Requirements

• 3–7 years manufacturing operations or CI experience; must have led at least 2 measurable improvement projects
• Demonstrated ability to lead improvement events and implement changes directly on the production floor
• Demonstrated history of savings validated by Finance — not self-reported
• Ability to influence frontline and supervisory teams without direct authority
• Strong analytical skills — Excel proficiency required (time studies, tracking, data analysis)
• Lead and facilitate CI initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee engagement.
• Identify, analyze, and resolve operational issues using structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Plan, lead, and execute Kaizen events and rapid improvement workshops (hours to 1–2 days, small-to-mid scale).
• Partner with site leadership to develop and execute improvement roadmaps at the site execution level.
• Apply and coach teams on Lean/CI tools, including Fishbone Diagrams; 5-Why Analysis; Line Balancing; Takt Time Analysis; Standard Work; Root Cause Analysis
• Floor-first executor: High energy, production-floor presence; comfortable running time studies and facilitating working sessions
• Practical problem solver: Uses data to identify constraints, not just describe them
• Change leadership with frontline teams: Clear expectations, follow-through, and accountability at the operator and lead level
• Strong organization and project closure discipline: No open loops; projects close with validated, sustained results
• Clear communication: Bridges operators, supervisors, and plant leadership effectively
• Excel proficiency: Basic analysis, tracking, and reporting to support validation

Preferred: 

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Operations, or related field (or equivalent high-impact manufacturing leadership experience)
• Food manufacturing / cold environment experience
• Bilingual (English / Spanish)
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent practical Lean training
• Familiarity with CI project tracking tools (e.g., Monday.com or similar)

Join the Fresh Revolution with F&S Fresh Foods!

Headquartered in Vineland, NJ, F&S Fresh Foods is leading the way in fresh-cut fruit, vegetables, and meal solutions distribution. With the recent acquisition of five additional state-of-the-art facilities strategically located across the U.S., we now deliver to customers across the United States and Canada —every single day!

For over 40 years, we’ve been redefining production and safety processes, building strong partnerships, and creating endless possibilities for our diverse customers—from restaurants and supermarket prepared food operations to convenience store chains and beyond. At F&S, we are fueling families with nutrition, innovation, and convenience, turning meals into memorable moments. By combining cutting-edge technology, deep-rooted customer relationships, and operational excellence, we are shaping the future of fresh—from farm to family.

We’re not just about food; we’re about people. Recognized as a Great Place to Work for three consecutive years, our team of 2,100 full-time employees drives our culture forward by living our values every day. If you’re ready to be part of a company that values innovation, excellence, and community impact, join us as we embrace our next exciting chapter of growth. Together, we’re planting the seeds of progress and nourishing a fresh, healthy future for everyone!

Physical Demands:  

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and moving through production areas.

• Lifting up to 50 pounds.

• Regular exposure to cold food manufacturing environments (approximately 36°F–40°F in refrigerated areas).

• PPE and GMP compliance required at all facilities.

• Moderate noise levels; hearing protection provided where required.

Our Values: As we continue to grow and provide leading edge products to our customers, we understand hiring the right people and treating them well is critical to our success. Everything we do starts with our values. These are the beliefs that we share and that strengthen our team. Our values shape our thoughts and actions every day. At F&S its Always FRESH and Always FUN!

Find the most positive path.

Respond swiftly, accurately, and nimbly.

Earn trust by sharing, helping, and keeping promises.

Serve up safety.

Have each other’s backs.

F&S Offers: We are proud to provide a comprehensive benefits program focused on your total well-being.

• Competitive compensation package
• A robust health and welfare benefits package that includes Life, Health, Dental, Vision
• The opportunity to plan for the future with a strong 401(K) including company match
• Time to recharge with Paid Time Off annually + Paid Holidays
• Career Advancement opportunities and Tuition Assistance to help you achieve your goals and continue your career growth.

F&S is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in its workforce. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Join us in shaping the future of F&S Fresh Foods!