Senior Process Improvement Manager - Princeton, NJ

Senior Process Improvement Manager

Princeton, NJ

Step into a high‑impact role where you’ll shape the future of operational excellence across a complex, fast‑moving production environment. As the Senior Process Improvement Manager, you’ll own the design, deployment, and governance of standardized methodologies that elevate safety, quality, cost, productivity, delivery, and morale. You’ll lead hands‑on pilots, build capability on the production floor, and embed sustainable systems that empower teams from training and compounding to replenishment and automation. If you’re driven by structured problem‑solving, cross‑functional leadership, and transforming standards into lasting results, this role puts you at the center of meaningful change.

Your key responsibilities

Lead high‑impact improvement initiatives that boost throughput, agility, and overall performance, using methodologies such as SMED (single-minute exchange of dye), MOAT (mother of all tools), OEE (overall equipment effectiveness), HOSHIN (Hoshin kanri), and WPI (work process improvement) to deliver validated, measurable results.
Direct cross‑functional pilot projects and ensure successful handover through robust training packages, visual management systems, standard routines, and KPI governance frameworks.
Drive chronic loss elimination by investigating recurring process interruptions, optimizing planned downtime, and deploying corrective actions and updated operational standards.
Strengthen raw material availability by designing and implementing standards for pre‑ordering, kitting, and replenishment across machines, lift systems, and bulk materials.
Facilitate site‑level workshops to uncover loss opportunities, support CAPEX justification, and institutionalize KPI standards for performance management across key operational metrics.
Build organizational capability through structured training programs while owning the governance, integrity, and audit structure of the continuous improvement methodology.

We bring

Unique career paths across health, nutrition and beauty - explore what drives you and get the support to make it happen
A chance to impact millions of consumers every day – sustainability embedded in all we do
A science led company, cutting edge research and creativity everywhere – from biotech breakthroughs to sustainability gamechangers, you’ll work on what’s next
Growth that keeps up with you – you join an industry leader that will develop your expertise and leadership
A culture that lifts you up – with collaborative teams, shared wins, and people who cheer each other on.
A community where your voice matters – it is essential to serve our customers well.

You bring

Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or Engineering required; Lean Six Sigma and TPM training strongly preferred.
3+ years of demonstrated operational leadership experience as a line manager, supervisor, or coordinator, with a track record of applying improvement methodologies to drive measurable results.
Demonstrated success in implementing at least three improvement methodology pilots or leading two full rollouts as an internal client (Lean, TPM, IWS, or similar).

The salary or hourly wage scale provided reflects the pay range dsm-firmenich expects to pay the successful candidate for the position. Individual pay offered will be based on the applicant’s job-related skills, experience, relevant education, or training, and primary work location. Salary $158,882.10 - $169,936.00.

In addition to base salary, we also offer a comprehensive total rewards package, inclusive of annual incentive pay, a retirement savings plan, health care coverage, paid time off, recognition programs and a broad range of other benefits. All benefits and incentives are subject to eligibility requirements.

About dsm-firmenich

At dsm-firmenich, we don’t just meet expectations – we go beyond them.

Join our global team powered by science, creativity, and a shared purpose: to bring progress to life.

From elevating health to making fortified food and sustainable skincare, the impact of your work here will be felt by millions – every single day. Whether it’s fragrance that helps you focus, alternative meat that’s better for the planet, or reducing sugar without losing flavor, this is where you help shape the future of nutrition, health, and beauty for everyone, everywhere.

And while you’re making a difference, we’ll make sure you’re growing too. With learning that never stops, a culture that lifts you up and the freedom to move across businesses, teams, and borders. Your voice matters here. And your ideas? They’re essential to our future.

Because real progress only happens when we go beyond, together.

Inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity statement

At dsm-firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you.

And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.

Agency statement

We’re managing this search directly at dsm-firmenich. If you’re applying as an individual, we’d love to hear from you. We’re not accepting agency submissions or proposals involving fees or commissions for this role.