Continuous Improvement Manager (AI Startup)

At Almetra, we’re on a mission to reinvent how factories work. We help manufacturers, one of the most essential and overlooked sectors of our economy, run better. Every car, wind turbine, medical device, and washing machine comes from a factory. But factories today are running out of people. They struggle with efficiency, safety, and quality, and they desperately need better tools to understand what’s really happening on the shop floor. That’s where we come in. Almetra builds AI-powered computer vision systems that give manufacturers deep visibility into how their production lines actually run, and the insights to improve them. We don’t sell ads or marketing software. We help real factories solve real problems. As a Continuous Improvement Engineer, you’ll bridge two worlds: deep operational excellence and cutting-edge AI. You’ll work directly with our customers and internal teams to identify inefficiencies, drive measurable improvement initiatives, and teach leaders and operators how to use AI insights to transform their assembly lines. If you’ve worked in Lean, CI, or process improvement, and you want to apply that expertise in a fast-moving tech company, this role is for you. WHY JOIN US - Impact that matters. You’ll help manufacturers solve real operational problems, not just implement software. - Shape the future of industrial AI. Your domain knowledge will directly influence product evolution and customer outcomes. - Trusted advisor status. You’ll work hand-in-hand with customer teams, from operators to plant managers. - Career acceleration. You’ll become an expert at translating factory processes into AI-powered improvements across global customers. WHAT YOU’LL DO - Train customers on AI-powered improvement. Create training materials and run workshops that teach customers how to use our AI system to optimize their shop floor. - Analyze operations. Review production data and video insights to spot inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and deviations in assembly processes. - Generate clear improvement actions. Turn your findings into practical, measurable recommendations for improving customer workflows. - Drive implementation. Present improvement measures to customers and guide them on how to apply and scale the changes. - Track results. Monitor the impact of implemented actions and adjust recommendations as needed. - Be a trusted partner. Build strong relationships with customer teams and support them with Lean and CI best practices. - Work cross-functionally. Collaborate with engineering, data science, product, and sales to ensure smooth deployments and strong customer outcomes. - Stay current. Keep up with the latest in Lean, CI, manufacturing, and emerging technologies. WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR - Undergraduate or Master’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field. - 3+ years of experience in Lean manufacturing, CI, or process improvement roles. - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; able to spot trends in complex data sets. - A proven track record of designing and implementing successful Lean or CI initiatives. - Excellent communication and presentation abilities, capable of explaining complex concepts to non-technical audiences. - Fluent verbal and written communication in German and English. - Ability to work with operators, engineers, and leadership teams with credibility and empathy. - A collaborative mindset and comfort working across Sales, Product, and Engineering. - Curiosity about AI, automation, data-driven improvement, and the future of manufacturing. BONUS POINTS - Experience with time studies, MTM, OEE, value stream mapping, or ergonomic assessments. - Background in Kaizen facilitation or supporting large-scale CI programs. - Familiarity with enterprise software or digital transformation in an industrial environment. - Interest in turning CI expertise into scalable playbooks and repeatable AI-powered improvement methods. What we offer Employee Share Options Program for all permanent employees* An increasing benefits list: currently includes Urban Sports club and quarterly team retreats. Be on the forefront in defining what artificial intelligence means in manufacturing Gain hands-on experience in working in an AI-first software company Supportive and inclusive culture that values diversity and promotes the advancement of underrepresented groups within the company Collaborate with a diverse (currently more than 10 nationalities) and talented team, working on cutting-edge projects with real-world impact Network with professionals and leaders in the field, opening doors to potential future career opportunities We have a very flat hierarchy, open 360° feedback, and flexible working hours Ethics⚖: We are committed to developing ethical AI software Don't meet all the requirements? Almetra is committed to creating a workplace that is diverse, fair, and inclusive. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds, even if they do not meet every qualification, to submit their application. We firmly believe that having a team with diverse perspectives only strengthens our company and drives innovation. Our commitment also extends to providing an accessible environment for everyone, including those with disabilities. Please let us know if you require any accommodations during the application process or while working with us, and we will do our best to support you. *Only full-time, permanent roles are eligible for stock options. Part-time roles, contract roles, work-student, internships and freelance roles are not eligible for stock options.