Continuous Improvement Engineer

Overview

As a Continuous Improvement Engineer at TravelCenters of America, you will use process mapping, data analysis, and root cause analysis to identify and lead central initiatives that drive operational excellence.

What you'll do

• Conduct process mapping, data analysis, and root cause analysis to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.
• Independently identify process gaps and systemic issues and design scalable solutions that enhance performance across multiple sites or functions.
• Develop, prioritize, and lead an enterprise-wide comprehensive improvement plan that delivers measurable results in safety, quality, delivery, cost, and employee development.
• Partner with senior leadership to align improvement efforts with strategic priorities and long-term goals.
• Lead and facilitate complex, multi-functional projects using Lean, Six Sigma, and other methodologies to drive improved business results.
• Manage project portfolios, ensuring timely execution, stakeholder alignment, and sustained impact.
• Support launch and stabilization phases, ensuring solutions are embedded and continuously improved.
• Apply advanced engineering tools (e.g., simulation modeling, layout optimization, labor standards, time studies, resource modeling, quality standards) to drive efficiency.
• Identify and support opportunities for automation implementation within new and established processes.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in Lean Six Sigma, coaching teams and developing internal capabilities to sustain CI, Quality Assurance and Lean Six Sigma principles across the organization.
• Effectively facilitate and execute Value Stream Maps and Kaizen Events through all stages (charter ideation and creation, pre-work identification and completion, regular follow-up, and sustainment).
• Apply engineering methodologies and tools such as process optimization, labor standards studies (time studies), layout optimization, data profiling and analysis, and resource modeling to improve Truck Service field and support center operations.
• Apply advanced data analysis to customer feedback and operational data to identify trends and improvement opportunities that enhance experience and performance.
• Provide regular executive-level reporting of data and actions to measure progress against site objectives.
• Make data-driven optimization recommendations that align with Truck Service strategy.
• Implement and monitor standardized corrective action systems.
• Support safety, risk, and compliance initiatives, prioritizing the "Believe in Zero" safety philosophy.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the continuous improvement mission.

What you'll need

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field, or equivalent experience considered.
• 5+ years of related experience in a continuous improvement, process engineering, or operations function in a similar industry.
• Experience developing and managing Standard Work, Visual Management Systems, Management Accountability Systems, Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA), Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen Event, Lean Six Sigma Projects and 5S/Workplace Organization.
• Intermediate understanding and experience in core engineering and data analysis functions such as slotting, utilization, labor planning, layouts and metrics.
• Strong analytical, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience with advanced engineering tools, data visualization platforms, and database programming (e.g., Power BI, Minitab, AutoCAD, Labor Management Systems, SQL, VBA).
• Knowledge of truck service operations, data analytics, industrial engineering and Lean Six Sigma methods.
• Understanding of maintenance and repair solutions and automation types.
• Familiarity with fleet management, vehicle maintenance operations, managed transportation networks, and various equipment types (trucks, tractors, trailers).
• Valid driver's license.

Nice to have

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or related field (preferred).
• Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification (preferred).
• PMP certification (preferred).

Details

• Travel requirement is approximately 50–75%; up to 75% travel should be expected.
• Hybrid of office and remote working.
• Not eligible for relocation assistance.
• Base pay range $120,000 - $135,000.