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Xylem is a Fortune 500 global water solutions company dedicated to advancing sustainable impact and empowering the people who make water work every day. As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employeesoperating in over 150 countries, Xylem is at the forefront of addressing the world's most critical water challenges. We invite passionate individuals to join our team, dedicated to exceeding customer expectations through innovative and sustainable solutions.
Xylem is seeking a Senior Continuous Improvement (CI) Specialist to lead strategic, cross-functional initiatives that drive operational excellence, cultural maturity, and measurable financial impact.
In this role, you will champion Lean principles, enable teams to streamline processes, and elevate organizational capability across our Auburn, NY production facility.
Key Responsibilities
Continuous Improvement Leadership
Lead cross-functional CI projects focused on optimizing workflows, increasing efficiency, and enhancing quality.
Conduct analyses related to cost control, cost reduction, inventory management, and production record systems.
Develop and execute project plans that reduce labor hours, manufacturing waste, and operational costs using Lean methodologies.
Partner closely with cross‑departmental leaders to identify improvement opportunities and implement sustainable solutions.
Operational Excellence & Problem Solving
Mobilize and guide problem‑solving teams to streamline processes and remove barriers to performance.
Facilitate kaizen and rapid-improvement events, ensuring thorough preparation, effective execution, and disciplined follow‑up.
Apply Lean Six Sigma tools to address systemic challenges, solve complex problems, and build team capability.
Benchmark against Best‑in‑Class practices and identify opportunities for cost, quality, and productivity improvement.
Change Management & Cultural Advancement
Serve as a change agent by challenging current practices, influencing leaders, and fostering a culture of ongoing improvement.
Share best practices across the organization and contribute to coordinated improvement roadmaps.
Support long-term organizational readiness by building CI capability and promoting continuous learning.
Expected to eventually rotate into the broader organization to further embed a CI-driven mindset.
Minimum Qualifications
BS/BA in Engineering or equivalent technical discipline.
1–5 years of experience in manufacturing environments with demonstrated use of CI methodologies and delivery of measurable business impact.
Strong knowledge of CI tools and techniques, with enthusiasm for driving change.
Proven ability to develop and maintain detailed project plans for large-scale initiatives.
Comfortable working in ambiguous or evolving environments.
Experience developing and executing effective change management strategies.
Excellent verbal, written, and presentation communication skills.
Desire and commitment to pursue advanced Lean or Six Sigma certifications.
Proficiency in standard computer systems and applications.
Preferred Qualifications
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Black Belt, or Lean certification.
Experience in low-volume, high‑mix manufacturing environments (machining, assembly, welding).
Experience working within unionized environments.
ERP/MRP systems knowledge.
Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Project and Visio.
Experience with VBA programming and database querying.
Physical Demands
Light lifting (20–25 lbs.).
Regular standing, sitting, reaching, bending, and movement throughout the facility.
Work Environment
Primarily office-based with standard office equipment; onsite presence required.
Standard weekly hours: 40–45.
Travel requirements: <10%.
Why Xylem?
We believe in supporting our employees professionally and personally. Our comprehensive benefits include:
Paid parental leave, maternity support, and fertility benefits
Flexible and hybrid work options (where applicable)
Health, dental, and vision coverage starting day one
Emotional wellness resources and volunteer opportunities (Watermark Program)
PTO/FTO, paid holidays
Career development, tuition reimbursement, and student loan forgiveness
Generous retirement savings plan with company contribution
Employee recognition and discount programs
Ready to grow your career while making a difference? Join a team that values your skills, supports your development, and empowers you to help solve global water challenges.
Xylem does not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
The estimated salary range for this position is $110,000 to $120,000 plus bonus.   Starting pay is dependent on multiple factors, such as skills, experience and work location, and is not typically at the top of the range.  At Xylem we offer a competitive compensation package with a generous benefit package, including Medical, Dental, Vision plans, 401(k) with company contribution, paid time off, paid parental leave and tuition reimbursement.
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Join the global Xylem team to be a part of innovative technology solutions transforming water usage, conservation, and re-use. Our products impact public utilities, industrial sectors, residential areas, and commercial buildings, with a commitment to providing smart metering, network technologies, and advanced analytics for water, electric, and gas utilities. Partner with us in creating a world where water challenges are met with ingenuity and dedication; where we recognize the power of inclusion and belonging in driving innovation and allowing us to compete more effectively around the world.
At Xylem, you'll not only contribute to solving water issues but also have the chance to make a difference through our paid Volunteer Program, Xylem Watermark. We prioritize our employees' well-being through inclusion and belonging as well as our Employee Resource Groups (ERG). Proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity (including disability and veterans) and Affirmative Action workplace, Xylem fosters an inclusive environment free from discrimination or harassment.Â
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Please note that the information in this job description outlines the general nature of the position and is not an exhaustive list of duties. Xylem is dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to enable all employees to perform their essential job functions. We reserve the right to modify this job description and assign additional duties as needed. Embrace the opportunity to be part of Xylem's transformative journey in shaping the future of water technology! #XylemCareers #GlobalImpact #WaterInnovationÂ
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