Continuous Improvement Specialist

Gemini is looking for a flexible Continuous Improvement Specialist to join the team! This role is responsible for identifying, developing, implementing, and sustaining process improvements that enhance operational efficiency, productivity, quality, safety, and overall business performance. This role partners with cross-functional teams to evaluate existing processes, identify opportunities for improvement, lead continuous improvement initiatives, and establish standardized work practices. A key responsibility is the management and governance of the organization's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring procedures' are accurate, current, accessible, consistently followed, and aligned with operational best practices. The Continuous Improvement Specialist promotes a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, process standardization, and operational excellence throughout the organization. Wage Range: USD $57,400 - $75,800 per YearLocation: Taylor, TX, Decorah, IA, or Cannon Falls, MNType: Full Time – On-siteSchedule: 5/8 hour days (Monday through Friday)Travel: Up to 25%

A day in the life of a Continuous Improvement Specialist includes:

1. Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization

• Identify opportunities to improve operational processes, reduce waste, eliminate inefficiencies, and increase productivity.
• Lead and facilitate continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, and other process improvement methodologies.
• Conduct process assessments, workflow analysis, and root cause investigations to identify performance gaps.
• Develop and implement action plans to improve quality, cost, delivery, productivity, and safety.
• Monitor improvement initiatives to ensure implemented changes deliver sustainable results.
• Facilitate employee engagement and encourage participation in continuous improvement activities.

2. SOP Management & Document Control

• Own and manage the organization's SOP program, ensuring procedures are standardized, accurate, current, and maintained throughout their lifecycle.
• Develop, write, review, revise, and standardize SOPs, work instructions, process maps, and other operational documentation.
• Establish and maintain SOP governance processes, including document creation, review, approval, revision, distribution, and archival.
• Partner with department leaders and subject matter experts to ensure SOPs accurately reflect current operational practices and regulatory or company requirements.
• Maintain a centralized document repository with appropriate version control and document accessibility.
• Establish and monitor periodic SOP review schedules to ensure documents remain relevant and up to date.
• Identify gaps between documented procedures and actual work practices and coordinate corrective actions.
• Ensure employees are trained on new and revised SOPs and that training records are maintained as required.
• Conduct periodic audits to verify SOP compliance and identify opportunities for process standardization.
• Drive accountability among process owners for maintaining accurate and compliant documentation.

3. Performance Measurement & Reporting

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure process effectiveness and improvement results.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop reports and dashboards to communicate improvement progress and business impact.
• Track cost savings, productivity gains, quality improvements, and other measurable benefits.
• Provide recommendations to leadership based on performance data and process analysis.

4. Training & Change Management

• Facilitate continuous improvement training and awareness initiatives.
• Support employees and leaders in adopting new processes, procedures, and standardized work practices.
• Develop training materials and job aids to support process changes.
• Communicate process improvements and ensure changes are effectively implemented across affected departments.
• Promote employee ownership, accountability, and a continuous improvement mindset.

5. Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Operations, Quality, Safety, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and other departments to improve business processes.
• Facilitate process improvement workshops, problem-solving sessions, and cross-functional projects.
• Collaborate with process owners to establish standard work and ensure consistent execution.
• Support internal audits, corrective action initiatives, and operational compliance activities as needed.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong understanding of SOP development, document control, revision management, and process standardization.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, Copilot, Power BI, Teams, etc.
• Experience applying AI in a manufacturing office environment is preferred.
• Experience with process mapping, workflow analysis, and performance reporting.
• Familiarity with document management systems and business process management tools preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and ability to translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization.
• Effective project management and prioritization skills.
• Strong facilitation, training, and change management abilities.
• Ability to work independently and drive initiatives to completion.
• Commitment to accountability, standardization, and continuous improvement.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related field preferred.
• 2–5 years of experience in continuous improvement, process improvement, operations, quality, or a related discipline.
• Experience developing, managing, and maintaining SOPs and controlled documentation.
• Experience leading or facilitating process improvement projects preferred.
• Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, and root cause analysis methodologies.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice. The actual title and individual compensation packages are dependent upon various factors unique to each candidate including skillset, training, transferable skills, work experience, qualifications, business needs, market demands, and other job-related reasons. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. This role is eligible for other benefits. How we show we care

• Low-cost Health Insurance Premiums
• 4% Retirement Match with Profit Sharing
• Generous Paid Time Off (Vacation, Holiday, Parental, Volunteer, and Sick)
• Dental, Vision, Disability and Life Insurance
• Use of Company Owned Resort in Hayward, WI
• Tuition Reimbursement Program

About Us

As a leader in the signage manufacturing industry, Gemini, Inc. has been providing stability to our employees since 1963. We know what it means to be human, and we strive to make sure our employees feel valued. Due to our incredible family of employees, we have grown substantially and are looking to grow our team further with like-minded individuals that share in our company values: Customer Commitment, Teamwork, Respect, Diversity, Stability, Stewardship. At the heart of our work is a simple but powerful vision: Successful Partners. Engaged People. Thriving Communities. This vision guides how we show up every day for our customers, for one another, and for the communities we call home.

• We are an Equal Opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.
• Gemini will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. For additional assistance email; hr.dept@geminisignproducts.com or call (507) 263-3957 and ask for the Human Resources Representative assigned to the location of interest.
• Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law.