Sanitation Continuous Improvement Specialist in Elk Grove Village, Illinois at CREATIVE WERKS LLC

Job Summary:

As a Continuous Improvement Specialist - Sanitation Projects, you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring sanitation-related improvement projects and programs as needed by the Sanitation Supervisor. Your expertise in food industry sanitation practices, along with your analytical skills and attention to detail, will contribute significantly to enhancing food safety, product quality, and operational efficiency within our facilities.

Responsibilities of the Position:

• Sanitation Project Management: Utilize PDCA for sanitation projects, including equipment upgrades, process optimizations, and hygiene-related initiatives.
• Compliance and Regulatory Standards: Stay up-to-date with industry regulations and standards pertaining to sanitation and food safety, ensuring our operations adhere to and exceed these requirements.
• Process Analysis and Improvement: Utilize data-driven methodologies such as Six Sigma, Lean, and root cause analysis to identify areas for improvement in sanitation practices and streamline processes.
• Performance Metrics: Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor sanitation efficiency, cleanliness, and compliance, providing regular reports and updates to management.
• Training and Education: Develop training materials and conduct workshops to educate employees on proper sanitation procedures, promoting a culture of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the organization.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with various teams, including production, quality assurance, maintenance, and safety, to implement cohesive sanitation strategies and ensure seamless integration of improvement initiatives.
• Continuous Learning: Keep along with industry advancements and emerging trends in sanitation technology and practices, recommending innovative solutions to enhance our sanitation program.
• Root Cause Analysis: Investigate sanitation-related incidents and non-compliance issues, conducting thorough root cause analyses and implementing corrective actions to prevent reoccurrence.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain detailed records of sanitation projects, changes, and improvements, generating comprehensive reports for management and regulatory purposes.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Managerment

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• In-depth knowledge of food safety regulations (e.g., FDA, USDA, HACCP) and sanitation best practices.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret data and propose effective solutions.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to train and educate employees at all levels.
• Detail-oriented and committed to maintaining the highest quality and safety standards.
• Advanced understanding of Microsoft Office programs with emphasis in Excel.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Food Science, Microbiology, Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven experience (1+ years) in a similar role within the food industry, with a focus on sanitation projects and continuous improvement.
• Project management experience, including the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Certified Six Sigma, Lean, or other continuous improvement methodologies (preferred).
• Familiarity with sanitation equipment and cleaning chemicals used in food processing facilities.
• Leadership experience preferred

Food Safety Responsibilities:

• Attend all food safety training sessions (GMP, SQF, HACCP, Allergen, Food Facility Security, Preventing Foodborne Illness)
• Participate in company GMP walks
• Enforce company rules regarding food safety and monitoring

Working Conditions:

• 50% standing in production and 50% sitting at a desk or in meetings.
• Wet, dry and dusty work environments during sanitation and production periods
• This position may require the employee to work weekends or shifts other than their own to meet the needs of the business.

Physical Requirements:

• Operate standard office equipment
• Reach with hands and arms
• Able to lift up to 49 pounds, stand/walk for up to 8 hours a day and be able to frequently push, pull, squat, bend, and reach, all with or without reasonable accommodation
• Ability to work between an office setting and warehouse environment with temperature range of 55 – 80 degrees.
• Climb ladders, operate scissor lifts (after certification) and comfortable working with heights.