Continuous Improvement Engineer

Zotefoams plc is a world leader in cellular material technology, headquartered in Croydon, UK, with additional manufacturing sites in Kentucky, USA and Brzeg, Poland, Oklahoma, USA (foam products manufacture and conversion) and Jiangsu Province, China (T-FIT).

We produce lightweight foams for various markets including sports and leisure, aviation, automotive and healthcare. Zotefoams also owns and licenses patented technology and sells advanced insulation systems

The Company is on a fast growth path, with strong revenue and profitability growth in recent years and ambitious growth plans for the near future.

About the Role:

Reporting to the Continuous Improvement Manager, the CI Engineer will be responsible for supporting the ongoing development and transformation of the Croydon manufacturing site. You'll play a key role in helping Zotefoams move towards a highly efficient, modern operation through the application of Lean tools and continuous improvement methodology.

This is a hands-on, varied role where you’ll be expected to challenge the status quo, drive operational excellence, and lead project-based improvements that reduce waste, improve efficiency, and enhance safety, quality, and team engagement.

Role Responsibilities:

• Support the CI Manager in executing strategy to reach an ideal future state, using the Lean toolkit
• Lead and facilitate Kaizen events across the shop floor
• Champion Lean methodologies such as 5S, TIMWOOD, RCA, VSM, visual management, and time & motion studies
• Analyse manufacturing processes to eliminate waste (e.g. Time, Inventory, Motion, Waiting, Over Processing, Over Production, Defects)
• Lead CI project teams, providing structured plans and regular updates
• Drive site layout improvements to reduce inefficiencies and wasted space
• Promote cultural change across safety, quality, efficiency, and innovation
• Support the development of a skilled and flexible workforce
• Work closely with Process and Industrial Engineering teams to deliver the ‘future factory’ vision

What you'll need:

• A qualification in a continuous improvement methodology
• Experience leading improvement projects and Kaizen events
• Familiarity with Lean tools (5S, TIMWOOD, RCA, VSM, etc.)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Solid IT skills, including Microsoft packages
• A working knowledge of continuous improvement techniques (or the willingness to learn on the job)
• A clear understanding of OHSE leadership responsibilities
• Experience influencing and motivating others to deliver change

What were looking for?

• Someone who leads by example with an impeccable approach to safety, quality, and delivery
• A pragmatic and dynamic individual with resilience and a strong sense of accountability
• A natural collaborator who can motivate, guide and challenge others
• A passion for operational excellence and continuous improvement

Why Join Us?

At Zotefoams, we believe in fostering a supportive and innovative environment where everybody can thrive. By joining us, you will be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, continuous improvement, and opportunities for professional growth and development.

Our Values

Courage - The courage to take bold action to ensure that we succeed in tackling our challenges and opportunities.

Impact – Dedicated to making a significant and positive impact in everything we do.

Respect - Cultivate a respectful and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and collaboration is encouraged.

Zotefoams is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees