Continuous Improvement Lead

Company Description Bonnell Industries, Inc. Truck and Road Equipment is a long-established manufacturer, installer, and distributor of truck equipment, with over 60 years of history and third-generation family ownership. The company produces heavy truck equipment for snow and ice control, road maintenance, and leaf collection, primarily serving municipal customers. Bonnell also supports contractors and small businesses in industries such as utility repair, auto mechanics, and construction with tailored truck equipment solutions. The organization employs a dedicated team of shop staff, sales professionals, and office personnel across functions including accounting, HR, inventory, purchasing, and marketing. Bonnell is recognized for delivering quality equipment demanded by customers who value reliability and performance.
Role Description The Continuous Improvement Lead is a full-time, on-site role based in Dixon, IL, responsible for driving operational excellence across manufacturing, installation, and distribution processes. This role will analyze workflows, identify inefficiencies, and develop data-driven improvement plans in close collaboration with shop staff, office teams, and leadership. The Continuous Improvement Lead will implement and monitor process changes, standard operating procedures, and performance metrics to enhance productivity, quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Daily responsibilities include facilitating cross-functional improvement projects, conducting root cause analyses, leading training on new processes, and documenting best practices. The role will also support strategic initiatives that align continuous improvement efforts with company goals and customer expectations.
Qualifications

• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or similar process optimization frameworks.
• Strong skills in data analysis, problem-solving, root cause analysis, and development of actionable improvement plans.
• Background in manufacturing, industrial operations, or related environments, preferably involving heavy equipment or truck equipment.
• Ability to lead cross-functional projects, facilitate meetings, and collaborate effectively with shop staff, office teams, and leadership.
• Clear written and verbal communication skills, including documentation of processes and preparation of reports and presentations.
• Competence with productivity and reporting tools (e.g., spreadsheets, project management software, ERP systems) to track metrics and outcomes.
• Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety, quality standards, and continuous learning.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, operations management, business, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Prior experience in a small to mid-sized, family-owned or closely held business environment is a plus.