Continuous Improvement Manager
Refresco, Modesto, CA, United States
Make a Difference in YOUR Career!
Our vision is both simple and ambitious: to put our drinks on every table.
We are the leading global independent beverage solutions provider. We serve a broad range of national and international retailers as well as Global, National and Emerging (GNE) brands. Our products are distributed worldwide from our production sites in Europe, North America, and Australia. Although our own branding may not appear on the labels of the beverages we produce, there is a good chance you are reading this while sipping one of our drinks.
Our ambition is to continually improve and it’s what keeps us at the top of our game. We are solutions-based. We are innovative. We seek out new challenges and conquer them. Refresco is at the cutting edge of a fast-moving industry because we have passionate people pushing the boundaries of what’s best.
Stop and think: how would YOU put our drinks on every table?
Position Description
Reporting to the Sr. Regional Operations Excellence Manager, the Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager is responsible for developing, coordinating, and sustaining CI initiatives within the manufacturing plant. Partnering with the Plant Leadership team and Sr. Regional Operations Excellence Manager, the CI Manager will drive the deployment of CI strategies across the facility. This role involves leading improvement projects, training and developing employees to lead similar initiatives, and fostering a Lean mindset throughout the plant. A strong Lean background is essential, as the CI Manager will spend significant time on the production floor, driving sustainable improvements and securing buy-in at all levels.
Essential Job Functions
Adhere to and ensure compliance to all health and safety policies/procedures, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and PPE requirements.
Adhere to and ensure compliance to food quality and food safety as per the standard(s) provided by corporate, customer, and/or governing bodies (ex. SQF).
Develop and support the execution of improvement plans aligned with company strategy by collaborating with the Plant Leadership Team and Sr. Regional OPEX Manager.
Lead, facilitate, and coach Kaizen events to drive sustainable improvements in safety, first-pass quality, direct labor efficiency, yield, maintenance excellence, and indirect labor optimization.
Mentor and train employees at all levels in CI tools, including the 8 Wastes, Standard Work, SMED, 5S, 5 Whys/RCA/Fishbone, and Center lining, to build a culture of continuous improvement.
Maintain a rolling 12-month pipeline of productivity initiatives and capital improvement opportunities.
Facilitate regular planning meetings to validate cost savings, review project status, and develop contingency plans if initiatives are off track.
Track and report cost savings, project sustainability, and employee engagement related to continuous improvement initiatives.
Analyze plant financials, including P&L and other internal data tools, to identify cost-saving opportunities and prioritize high-impact areas for improvement.
Lead the implementation and sustainment of the Refresco Management System (RMS), ensuring alignment with plant objectives.
Identify, evaluate, and execute process improvement opportunities that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and increase plant output.
Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure alignment, information sharing, and a unified approach to continuous improvement initiatives.
Implement and promote best practices through the Best Practice Sharing process, fostering innovation and operational excellence.
Define, monitor, and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure plant performance and drive accountability.
Partner with plant leadership to enhance workplace safety by developing and executing strategies to reduce accidents, energy consumption, and material waste.
Required Skills
Demonstrated success in implementing and driving cultural and operational improvements through structured change management.
Hands-on experience deploying Lean methodologies, including Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, and Visual Management, to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
Skilled in planning, leading, and coaching Kaizen events to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, and Windows) with the ability to quickly adapt to new software applications. Experience with SAP is highly preferred.
Comprehensive understanding of SQF standards with a strong sense of responsibility for Food Safety and Food Quality. Must take immediate action when any Food Safety or Quality issue is identified.
Willingness to adjust work hours or shifts as needed based on production and operational demands.
Ability to teach, coach, and apply structured problem-solving methodologies such as 5-Why and Fishbone Analysis to identify and eliminate the root causes of issues.
Proactive in identifying opportunities, making data-driven decisions, and executing improvements with a sense of urgency.
A strong self-driven work ethic, personal accountability, effective time management, and the ability to influence others are critical to success in this role.
Competencies
Leadership - Foster a culture of empowerment by building relationships based on trust, lead courageously on a day-to-day basis, and inspire growth with a clear and ambitious vision that guides the collective effort toward success.
Independence & Accountability – Take ownership of responsibilities, effectively prioritize multiple assignments, and work independently to drive results with minimal supervision.
Organization & Time Management – Maintain strong organizational skills to manage competing deadlines, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness under pressure.
Communication & Collaboration – Demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
Adaptability & Resilience – Thrive in dynamic environments by embracing change, demonstrating flexibility, and maintaining focus in fast-paced, evolving work settings.
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s Degree required, preferably in Engineering, Business or Operations.
3-5 years’ experience in Continuous Improvement role required.
Strong leadership capabilities in a fast-paced production environment required.
Previous experience in the food/beverage manufacturing industry preferred.
Ability to understand mechanical workings of equipment strongly preferred.
Working Conditions
Work Schedule: Weekdays, weekends, afternoon, evenings, overnight and holidays may be required.
Work Environment: Operating in a fast-paced production plant with numerous moving parts. Noise levels require hearing protection and temperatures can get very hot and/or relatively cold. The environment is structured and supervised, with clear production targets and schedules to meet.
Visual/Sensory – This position requires attention to detail, requiring attention with one or two senses at a time.
Mental Stress – There is pronounced pressure from deadlines, project management, accuracy or similar demands.
Travel Requirements
Travel anticipated: Up to 25%
Physical Requirements
R = Rarely (0-15%) O = Occasionally (16-45%) F = Frequently (46-100%)
Physical Demand
Stand or Sit: X
Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl: X
Lifting 50 lbs. (minimum lbs. lifted 5 lbs.): X
Carry weight, lift: X
Walking: X
Driving: X
Climb (stairs/ladders) or balance: X
Other Duties
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
A Career with Refresco
Refresco Beverages US Inc. offers the following competitive pay and comprehensive benefits:
Pay Range: $103,436 - $130,000, plus eligibility for performance-based bonuses based on company objectives.
Status: Exempt
Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts
Life and AD&D Insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and accident insurance
Short-term disability and long-term disability
Pet Insurance
Legal Benefits
401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match
12 Paid Holidays
15 Vacation Days and 5 Paid Sick Time Off Days
Well-being Benefit
Discount and Total Reward Programs
The applicant who is hired will receive wages within the range that will be based on several factors, including, as applicable, criteria such as years and type of experience, relevant education, training, qualifications, certifications/licensing, skills, geographic location, performance, market considerations, seniority system, merit system, systems that measure earnings by quantity or quality of production, and business or organizational needs.
Application deadline:
May 18, 2026 (the application deadline is a good-faith estimate and may be extended in certain circumstances)
How to apply:
Please visit our careers site at https://www.refresco-na.com
a/careers/
Join Refresco TODAY and enjoy a rewarding CAREER!
Note: Refresco Beverages US, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, Veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Our vision is both simple and ambitious: to put our drinks on every table.
We are the leading global independent beverage solutions provider. We serve a broad range of national and international retailers as well as Global, National and Emerging (GNE) brands. Our products are distributed worldwide from our production sites in Europe, North America, and Australia. Although our own branding may not appear on the labels of the beverages we produce, there is a good chance you are reading this while sipping one of our drinks.
Our ambition is to continually improve and it’s what keeps us at the top of our game. We are solutions-based. We are innovative. We seek out new challenges and conquer them. Refresco is at the cutting edge of a fast-moving industry because we have passionate people pushing the boundaries of what’s best.
Stop and think: how would YOU put our drinks on every table?
Position Description
Reporting to the Sr. Regional Operations Excellence Manager, the Continuous Improvement (CI) Manager is responsible for developing, coordinating, and sustaining CI initiatives within the manufacturing plant. Partnering with the Plant Leadership team and Sr. Regional Operations Excellence Manager, the CI Manager will drive the deployment of CI strategies across the facility. This role involves leading improvement projects, training and developing employees to lead similar initiatives, and fostering a Lean mindset throughout the plant. A strong Lean background is essential, as the CI Manager will spend significant time on the production floor, driving sustainable improvements and securing buy-in at all levels.
Essential Job Functions
Adhere to and ensure compliance to all health and safety policies/procedures, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and PPE requirements.
Adhere to and ensure compliance to food quality and food safety as per the standard(s) provided by corporate, customer, and/or governing bodies (ex. SQF).
Develop and support the execution of improvement plans aligned with company strategy by collaborating with the Plant Leadership Team and Sr. Regional OPEX Manager.
Lead, facilitate, and coach Kaizen events to drive sustainable improvements in safety, first-pass quality, direct labor efficiency, yield, maintenance excellence, and indirect labor optimization.
Mentor and train employees at all levels in CI tools, including the 8 Wastes, Standard Work, SMED, 5S, 5 Whys/RCA/Fishbone, and Center lining, to build a culture of continuous improvement.
Maintain a rolling 12-month pipeline of productivity initiatives and capital improvement opportunities.
Facilitate regular planning meetings to validate cost savings, review project status, and develop contingency plans if initiatives are off track.
Track and report cost savings, project sustainability, and employee engagement related to continuous improvement initiatives.
Analyze plant financials, including P&L and other internal data tools, to identify cost-saving opportunities and prioritize high-impact areas for improvement.
Lead the implementation and sustainment of the Refresco Management System (RMS), ensuring alignment with plant objectives.
Identify, evaluate, and execute process improvement opportunities that enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and increase plant output.
Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure alignment, information sharing, and a unified approach to continuous improvement initiatives.
Implement and promote best practices through the Best Practice Sharing process, fostering innovation and operational excellence.
Define, monitor, and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure plant performance and drive accountability.
Partner with plant leadership to enhance workplace safety by developing and executing strategies to reduce accidents, energy consumption, and material waste.
Required Skills
Demonstrated success in implementing and driving cultural and operational improvements through structured change management.
Hands-on experience deploying Lean methodologies, including Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work, and Visual Management, to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
Skilled in planning, leading, and coaching Kaizen events to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, and Windows) with the ability to quickly adapt to new software applications. Experience with SAP is highly preferred.
Comprehensive understanding of SQF standards with a strong sense of responsibility for Food Safety and Food Quality. Must take immediate action when any Food Safety or Quality issue is identified.
Willingness to adjust work hours or shifts as needed based on production and operational demands.
Ability to teach, coach, and apply structured problem-solving methodologies such as 5-Why and Fishbone Analysis to identify and eliminate the root causes of issues.
Proactive in identifying opportunities, making data-driven decisions, and executing improvements with a sense of urgency.
A strong self-driven work ethic, personal accountability, effective time management, and the ability to influence others are critical to success in this role.
Competencies
Leadership - Foster a culture of empowerment by building relationships based on trust, lead courageously on a day-to-day basis, and inspire growth with a clear and ambitious vision that guides the collective effort toward success.
Independence & Accountability – Take ownership of responsibilities, effectively prioritize multiple assignments, and work independently to drive results with minimal supervision.
Organization & Time Management – Maintain strong organizational skills to manage competing deadlines, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness under pressure.
Communication & Collaboration – Demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
Adaptability & Resilience – Thrive in dynamic environments by embracing change, demonstrating flexibility, and maintaining focus in fast-paced, evolving work settings.
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s Degree required, preferably in Engineering, Business or Operations.
3-5 years’ experience in Continuous Improvement role required.
Strong leadership capabilities in a fast-paced production environment required.
Previous experience in the food/beverage manufacturing industry preferred.
Ability to understand mechanical workings of equipment strongly preferred.
Working Conditions
Work Schedule: Weekdays, weekends, afternoon, evenings, overnight and holidays may be required.
Work Environment: Operating in a fast-paced production plant with numerous moving parts. Noise levels require hearing protection and temperatures can get very hot and/or relatively cold. The environment is structured and supervised, with clear production targets and schedules to meet.
Visual/Sensory – This position requires attention to detail, requiring attention with one or two senses at a time.
Mental Stress – There is pronounced pressure from deadlines, project management, accuracy or similar demands.
Travel Requirements
Travel anticipated: Up to 25%
Physical Requirements
R = Rarely (0-15%) O = Occasionally (16-45%) F = Frequently (46-100%)
Physical Demand
Stand or Sit: X
Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl: X
Lifting 50 lbs. (minimum lbs. lifted 5 lbs.): X
Carry weight, lift: X
Walking: X
Driving: X
Climb (stairs/ladders) or balance: X
Other Duties
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.
A Career with Refresco
Refresco Beverages US Inc. offers the following competitive pay and comprehensive benefits:
Pay Range: $103,436 - $130,000, plus eligibility for performance-based bonuses based on company objectives.
Status: Exempt
Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts
Life and AD&D Insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and accident insurance
Short-term disability and long-term disability
Pet Insurance
Legal Benefits
401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match
12 Paid Holidays
15 Vacation Days and 5 Paid Sick Time Off Days
Well-being Benefit
Discount and Total Reward Programs
The applicant who is hired will receive wages within the range that will be based on several factors, including, as applicable, criteria such as years and type of experience, relevant education, training, qualifications, certifications/licensing, skills, geographic location, performance, market considerations, seniority system, merit system, systems that measure earnings by quantity or quality of production, and business or organizational needs.
Application deadline:
May 18, 2026 (the application deadline is a good-faith estimate and may be extended in certain circumstances)
How to apply:
Please visit our careers site at https://www.refresco-na.com
a/careers/
Join Refresco TODAY and enjoy a rewarding CAREER!
Note: Refresco Beverages US, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, Veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law.
#J-18808-Ljbffr