Continuous Improvement Specialist

Continuous Improvement Specialist

Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Position: Full time, Mid Level. Company: ADASI (a division of the EDGE Group).

About ADASI

ADASI is the regional leader in autonomous systems and services, offering cutting edge solutions across air, land and sea domains. As part of the EDGE Group, ADASI focuses on designing, developing and delivering next generation unmanned systems that perform in complex environments, meeting the tactical needs of modern defence operations.

Job Purpose

The Continuous Improvement Specialist supports operational excellence within an intensive manufacturing environment by driving process optimisation, waste reduction and quality enhancement initiatives. The role is highly hands on, involving a regular presence on the shop floor to observe processes, implement improvements, and engage employees in problem solving activities. Working closely with the Operations Manager, production teams and cross functional departments, the specialist contributes to building a culture of continuous improvement through data driven analysis, pilot projects and collaborative initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead lean process improvements by conducting value stream mapping, Kaizen events and implementing tools such as 5S, Kanban and visual management-to eliminate waste, optimise workflows and achieve % annual efficiency gains in metrics such as cycle time, throughput and inventory turnover.
• Manage quality assurance by developing protocols, performing hands on audits, investigating non conformances with tools such as 8D and SPC, ensuring compliance with standards (e.g., ISO 9001), and reducing defects by 20% via KPIs like first pass yield and rework rates.
• Oversee training and development by designing and delivering hands on programs on lean, quality and safety; assessing skill gaps; facilitating workshops and certifications; evaluating effectiveness; and achieving 80% staff completion of annual training while supporting change management.
• Perform general duties including active participation in gemba walks, daily meetings and shift handovers; preparing monthly reports on projects and ROI; collaborating across departments; staying updated on industry trends; and prioritising safety in accordance with OSHA guidelines.
• Drive overall performance improvements measured by reductions in waste, defects and downtime, training feedback scores, employee engagement, and % increases in OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness).

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management or a related field; certifications in Lean Six Sigma (Green Belt preferred) or equivalent experience.
• 4 5 years' experience in manufacturing with proven hands on involvement in lean implementations and quality systems.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in tools such as Microsoft Excel, Minitab and root cause analysis (e.g., fishbone, Pareto) for data analysis and quality methods (e.g., poka yoke, 8D).
• Excellent communication and facilitation abilities to train diverse teams and lead without formal authority.
• Hands on mindset: willingness to work on the production floor, including physical tasks like process mapping and equipment set up.
• Problem solving orientation with a focus on practical, sustainable solutions.

Why Join ADASI

• Contribute to strategic defence initiatives that support the UAE's national security and innovation objectives.
• Be part of a forward looking organisation leading advances in autonomous and unmanned systems.
• Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for career growth, leadership development and impact on national scale programmes.