Senior Continuous Improvement Lead

Collectors is the leading creator of innovative technology that provides value-added services for collectors worldwide. We grade, authenticate, vault, and sell millions of record-setting collectibles, all while modernizing and digitalizing the process to further our mission of helping collectors pursue their passions. We’re always on the lookout for talented people to join our growing team.

Our services span collectible coins, trading cards, Funko Pops!, video games, event tickets, autographs, and memorabilia. Our subsidiaries include PSA, PCGS, SGC, and Card Ladder.

Since our founding in 1986, we have graded and authenticated millions of items. We employ more than 2,200 people across our headquarters in Santa Ana and offices in Jersey City, Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Toronto, Guadalajara, Dallas, and Paris.

We’re looking for a Senior Continuous Improvement Lead (PCGS) to join our growing Continuous Improvement team. In this elevated role, you will spearhead strategic operational improvement initiatives, drive cross-functional process optimization, and lead the design, implementation, and documentation of new operational procedures within our coin division.

You’ll collaborate closely with stakeholders across all operational functions—including learning & development, engineering, Product and Tech, and site-level operational leaders—to enhance performance, eliminate waste, and standardize processes. You will also serve as a key operational liaison for internal business units and external partners, ensuring alignment, clarity, and successful execution of improvement initiatives.

This role reports to the Senior Manager, Continuous Improvement, and is based onsite at our Santa Ana, California office with occasional travel (3–4 times per year).

What You’ll Do: 

Process Improvement & Waste Elimination

• Lead identification, analysis, and removal of process waste using Lean methodologies (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Process Mapping, Root Cause Analysis).

• Drive implementation of efficient workflows that reduce variation, improve throughput, and increase operational scalability.

• Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, and waste assessments to prioritize impactful improvement opportunities.

    Project Leadership & Systems Implementation

• Define clear, well‑structured, and well‑documented project plans for new process and system implementations.

• Translate operational needs into actionable requirements for engineering, systems, and product teams.

• Oversee execution of process and systems changes, ensuring alignment with business goals and operational capabilities.

• Develop standardized work, SOPs, process flows, training materials, and change‑management plans to support smooth adoption.

Cross‑Functional Collaboration & Stakeholder Management

• Coordinate cross‑functional teams to ensure successful delivery of process and system improvements.

• Serve as a central liaison between operational teams and business departments, communicating expectations, risks, and timelines with clarity and confidence.

• Facilitate stakeholder alignment sessions, improvement workshops, and post‑implementation reviews.

• Build strong relationships across all levels of the organization to influence decision-making and champion CI culture.

Who You Are: 

• 3+ years of strong analytical, problem‑solving, and organizational experience driving measurable process improvements.

• 3+ years of data‑driven decision‑making with advanced proficiency in spreadsheets, reporting, and performance metrics.

• 1–2 years of management or team‑lead experience preferred.

• Deep understanding of Lean,, Kaizen, PDCA, and other continuous improvement frameworks.

• Demonstrated expertise in identifying waste and root causes across operational processes.

• Experienced in implementing cross‑functional system improvements and translating business requirements into system workflows.

• Adept at stakeholder management with the ability to navigate ambiguity, influence without authority, and drive alignment across teams.

• Strong attention to detail paired with a high‑level strategic mindset.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of simplifying complex concepts.

• Thrives in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.

• Proficiency in Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides, Monday.com; Lucidchart proficiency

Physical Requirements:

• Computer Use: Typing, mouse work, and sitting and looking at a computer potentially for long periods of time

• Hand Use: Regular hand use for various tasks

• Hearing Requirements: Ability to hear alarms, signals, and verbal instructions

• Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift, carry, and move materials up to 40 pounds

• Phone Answering: Talking on the phone and texting may be required, as well as manual dexterity to operate a computer and phone system efficiently

• Sitting or Standing: Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time

Hourly Rate: 

The hourly rate for this position is $30. Entry level operations positions generally start at an hourly rate of $17. Actual compensation in this range will be based on a variety of non-discriminatory factors, including location, job level, prior experience, and skill set.

Reasons To Join Us:

• Health Insurance: All full-time employees are eligible to enroll in Medical, Dental, and Vision

• Additional Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for fertility, commuter, and educational assistance benefits

• 401(K) Matching Plan: We are proud to offer a competitive 401k matching plan to our employees to support their future financial goals

• Vacation: All full-time employees are eligible for paid vacation

• Holiday Pay: All regular, full-time employees are eligible for ten company paid holidays

• Employee Discounts: Employees receive discounts on select grading services for approved submissions

• Flexible Hours: Many of our teams offer flexible schedules with varying shifts and will work with you to accommodate your needs

• Fun Working Environment: Our team members are invited to participate in celebrations, holiday events, and team building activities

Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

Collectors uses e-Verify to validate your ability to work legally in the United States.

We are aware that there are instances where individuals are receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from Collectors or one of our business units. This type of fraud can be carried out through false websites, through fake e-mails claiming to be from the company or through social media. We never ask for personal information such as your bank account, Social Security numbers or National IDs, nor do we send or request payments for the purchase of business-related equipment. If you suspect fraud, please reach out to jobs@collectors.com.

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability, veteran status, or other class protected by applicable law. We believe that a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills will better service the diverse community of collectors we support.

If you require an accommodation to apply or interview with us due to a disability or special need, please email people@collectors.com.

U.S. residents: for disclosures relating to personal information we collect during the employment application and recruitment process, please see our Privacy Notice for U.S. Applicants.

If you are based in California, you can read information for California residents here.