Continuous Improvement Specialist

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, WATA, Card Ladder, and the Long Beach Expo collectibles trade show.

Since our founding in 1986, we have graded and authenticated millions of items. We employ more than 1,700 people across our headquarters in Santa Ana and offices in Jersey City, Seattle, Canada, Hong Kong, Paris, Shanghai, and Tokyo.

We’re looking for a Continuous Improvement Specialist to join our growing Continuous Improvement team. Our team's primary functions are continuous improvement of operational processes, new process implementation and alignment of operational procedures across our various sites. As a Continuous Improvement Specialist you will be spearheading operational improvement efforts and supporting set up & documentation of new operational procedures for all Collectors sites. You will be partnering with teams across all operational functions, including the learning team, engineering, procurement and operational experts at all levels. Additionally you will serve as an operational liaison for departments across Collectors business functions and third party vendors.

You’ll report to the Continuous Improvement Supervisor and work onsite from our Santa Ana, California office with occasional travel (3-4 times per year).

What You’ll Do:

• Support the ideation, implementation and testing of process enhancements throughout our operation
• Identify gaps in system functionality and work with product management to enhance our products
• Lead implementation project with functional teams across the organization to coordinate successful change initiatives
• Optimize operational flow through creation of improved process maps, floor plans and operational procedures
• Develop change communication plans and train operators on new operational processes 
• Planning, facilitating, and executing continuous improvement events using Lean Six Sigma tools
• Support improvement projects from initiation to completion, including defining scopes, in depth progress documentation and timeline creation.
• Defining clear, well articulated and well documented project plans for new process implementations
• Deliver outstanding service to all contributors and internal customers.
• Lead by example and be a champion of all company policies, including safety, attendance & security

Who You Are:

• 2+ years of demonstrating strong analytical, problem solving and organizational skills
• 2+ years of demonstrating excellent data analysis with strong computer skills
• Thorough understanding of process mapping & value stream mapping 
• Able to analyze existing processes, workflows, and systems to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Strong attention to detail with a strategic and analytical mindset
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment both individually and as part of a team
• Excellent communication skills both written & verbal 
• Dynamic thinking and strong problem-solving abilities
• Proficiency in Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides & Monday.com, proficiency in LucidCharts preferred 

Physical Requirements:

• Bending and Twisting: Bending neck/waist, twisting neck/waist, and squatting.
• Computer Use: Typing, mouse work, and sitting and looking at a computer potentially for long periods of time.
• Exposure to Machinery: Exposure to machinery noise, which may include noise from forklifts, injection presses, or other machinery.
• Hand Use: Power gripping when using low-precision, high-impact hand tools that require significant force, such as hammer drills and torque wrenches.
• Hearing Requirements: Ability to hear alarms, signals, and verbal instructions.
• Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift, carry, and move materials up to 75+ pounds, with employee help or with proper equipment.
• Sitting or Standing: Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
• Temperature and Humidity: Occasional exposure to warehouse environments without heating or cooling with fluctuations in temperatures and humidity.

Walking: Ability to walk for long periods.

Hourly Range: 

The hourly range for this position is $28-$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 
• 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