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Job Summary

As a Continuous Improvement Engineer at TravelCenters of America, you will use process mapping, statistical data analysis, and root cause analysis to identify and lead strategic initiatives to drive operational excellence. You’ll identify high-impact opportunities, design scalable solutions, and mentor others in Lean, Six Sigma, and engineering practices. This role demands strategic ownership, thinking big, acting decisively, and taking full accountability for meaningful change, along with the ability to influence and inspire cross-functional teams.

Success in this role hinges on your knowledge of data analytics, engineering techniques, and advanced lean tools, as well as your business acumen and ability to connect operational improvements. to customer experience and financial performance. You’ll thrive in a fast-paced environment, adapt quickly to shifting priorities, and build strong cross-functional relationships to ensure improvements are sustained and aligned with long-term goals.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Process Leadership

+ Conduct process mapping, statistical 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.

Advanced Project Management

+ Lead and facilitate complex, cross-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 go-live and stabilization phases, ensuring solutions are embedded and continuously improved.

Engineering & Lean Expertise

+ 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 and Six Sigma, coaching teams and developing internal capabilities to sustain CI, Quality Assurance and Lean principles across the organization.

+ Effectively facilitate and execute Value Stream Maps and Kaizen Events through all stages (A3 charter ideations/creation, pre-work identification and completion, regular follow-up, and sustainment).

+ Apply engineering methodologies/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.

Quality & Compliance Leadership

+ Oversee the design, implementation, and sustainment of Quality Management Systems (QMS) across operations.

+ Lead root cause analysis and corrective action planning for complex quality and compliance issues.

+ Support process improvements as appropriate related to Quality Assurance for a start-up or expansion.

+ Support regulatory and certification efforts, ensuring standards are met and maintained.

Mentorship & Capability Building

+ Mentor junior engineers, specialists, and/or process owners, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

+ Develop training materials and lead workshops to build Lean and engineering competencies across the organization.

Customer & Business Impact

+ Utilize advanced data analysis to analyze customer feedback and operational data to identify trends and solution 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.

Additional Responsibilities

+ 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 We’d Like to See

+ Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.

+ 5+ years of related experience in a continuous improvement, process engineering, or operations function in a similar industry.

+ Experience in developing and managing Leader Standard Work, Visual Management Systems, Management Accountability Systems, Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA), Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen, 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 methods.

+ Understanding of maintenance and repair solutions and automation types, etc.

+ Familiar with fleet management, vehicle maintenance operations, managed transportation networks, and various equipment types (trucks, tractors, trailers).

+ Travel requirement is approximately 50–75%.

+ Valid driver’s license

+ Preferred certifications: Lean Six Sigma, cPMP

With Us, You’ll Enjoy

+ Competitive salary and annual bonus opportunity

+ Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

+ 401(k) with company match

+ Paid vacation and holidays

+ Tuition reimbursement

+ On-site meal discounts

+ Discounts on technology, travel, food, and fuel

+ Company-paid training and advancement opportunities

+ Relocation assistance (relocation not required)

_Not all benefit plans are available to all team members. For a full list, visit:_ https://www.ta-petro.com/careers/working-at-ta-travel-centers

Pay Range

$0.00 - 0.00

annually

pay range listed reflects the potential pay for this role. The pay will

depend on various factors, such as responsibilities of the position, job

duties/requirements, and relevant experience and skills. Not all positions

posted will have a pay range listed.

Our travel centers serve thousands every day; not one traveler is the same and our team must reflect that. We can "return every traveler to the road better than they came" only by understanding and celebrating individualism. TravelCenters of America is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless race, color, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, familial status, ancestry, sex, gender, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, handicap, military service or Veteran status, genetic information or membership in any other category protected by applicable federal, state or local law. At TravelCenters of America, we invite everyone to make themselves at home.

Typical Physical Demands

This role requires frequent verbal and written communication, strategic planning, and collaboration with field leaders and cross-functional teams. While the role is largely focused on analysis, leadership, and oversight, travel to locations will be required. During site visits, light physical activity such as walking, standing, or navigating shop environments may occur. Lifting or moving objects up to 50 lbs may be required on rare occasions. Visual acuity is essential for reviewing operational data, facilities, and service documentation. All tasks are performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Work Environment

The role is based in a professional environment with standard office conditions. Travel to indoor and outdoor locations will occur, exposing the individual to operational settings such as truck service shops. These environments may include mechanical noise, diesel fumes, moving equipment, and contact with substances typical of commercial vehicle maintenance (e.g., grease, oil). All site visits are conducted in accordance with company safety protocols, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and expected to be used.

Disclaimer

This job description may not list all duties for this position. The incumbent in this position may be asked to perform other duties. TA Operating LLC reserves the right to revise the job description at any time. This job description is not a contract for employment, and either the incumbent or TA Operating LLC may terminate employment at any time, for any reason.