Continuous Improvement Specialist

Job Description

**About Ya YA Foods:** Ya YA Foods is a dynamic and high-growth manufacturer of liquid food and unique beverages. With over 30 years’ experience, we have evolved into a versatile manufacturer and co-packer of a variety of low acid and high acid beverage and liquid food items. We are a family-owned Canadian business who prides itself in its proven track record of satisfying the needs of global multi-national customers. We are a solution provider for our customers, always striving to exceed expectations on innovation, quality, service, and speed to market. For further information about us, please check our website at yayafoods.com **A career at Ya YA FOODS will offer you the opportunity to…** * Build a career, not just have a job * Work in a dynamic and high-growth company with very skilled professionals * Become part of a teamwork focused culture * Be a part of an organization that supports your future growth path **Reports to:** Operations Leader **Responsibilities** * Collect, organize, analyze, and chart plant production reports, maintenance reports, etc. * Prepare summaries of data indicators and highlight process deficiencies, process non-compliance to Department Managers. * Evaluate production bottlenecks and develop action plans to increase efficiency. * Make recommendations and assist in implementation of corrective actions. * Receive input from stakeholders and document detailed procedures to accompany processes for training. * Develop, implement and track KPIs for various departments. * Analyze KPIs and recommends process changes leading to more efficient production. * Support and design internal and external reporting requirements. * Focus on teaching operations staff to use Lean tools (5, fishbone, 5-whys, PDCA). * Observe all safety rules and promote a safe working environment with team members. * Compliance with all rules & policies regarding health safety, occupational safety, environmental safety, food safety, legal regulations, company requirements, etc. * Compliance with the Company's Integrated Management Systems which includes, but is not limited to Production, Quality, Food Safety & GMP. * Other duties as assigned. **Profile** * University Degree in Engineering, Continuous Improvement and Process Mapping or a related field * Demonstrated project management skills * Proven ability to facilitate and to motivate teams to form consensus * Strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment * Proficient computer skills (Microsoft Suite of Applications, Microsoft Navision), and instructional software * Skill in organization, analysis, time management, prioritization, and the ability to meet deadlines for multiple tasks * Good interpersonal skills and communication with all levels of management * Able to multitask, prioritize, and manage time efficiently * Excellent leadership, team building, and management skills to encourage and mentor staff * NB: Successful candidates will be required to provide photo ID, banking details, a valid SIN number, and (if applicable) a valid work permit ***Why Join Us*** We believe that the key to creating and growing a successful business is by investing in our people—some of whom have been a part of our team for over 30-years. This is at the core of who we are, what we do, and how we grow our business—as a versatile, automated manufacturer and co-packer of a wide-variety of beverages and liquid food items. In our view, a happy team means a better workforce, a better product, and more satisfied customers. *Furthermore, we encourage different perspectives and celebrate diversity in our workforce. Where every employee has the opportunity to realize his or her full potential in a working environment that is supportive of everyone. Upon request, we will gladly provide accommodations to any candidate with a disability taking part in the selection process.*