Six Sigma
Six Sigma is a method used to improve manufacturing quality and efficiency. It's like a toolbox of techniques that helps companies reduce mistakes in their production processes. The name comes from a statistical goal of having almost no defects (3.4 defects per million items). When you see this on a resume, it usually means the person has been trained in problem-solving and quality improvement methods. People can earn different levels of certification, often called "belts" (like in martial arts) - Green Belt, Black Belt, or Master Black Belt. Similar approaches include Lean Manufacturing or Total Quality Management (TQM).
Examples in Resumes
Led Six Sigma Black Belt project reducing manufacturing defects by 75%
Implemented Six Sigma methodologies to streamline production processes
Certified Six Sigma Green Belt with experience in quality improvement projects
Typical job title: "Six Sigma Professionals"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Six Sigma Professionals
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: Can you describe a major Six Sigma project you led and its impact on the business?
Expected Answer: Look for candidates who can explain a complete project from problem identification to solution implementation, including measurable results like cost savings or quality improvements. They should demonstrate leadership and project management skills.
Q: How do you handle resistance to change when implementing Six Sigma methods?
Expected Answer: Strong candidates should discuss change management strategies, stakeholder communication, and methods for getting buy-in from both management and front-line workers.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What tools do you use to analyze process problems?
Expected Answer: Candidate should mention common tools like process mapping, cause-and-effect diagrams, or data collection methods, and explain how they use these to identify problems and solutions.
Q: How do you determine if a process improvement was successful?
Expected Answer: Look for understanding of measuring results, comparing before and after data, and tracking long-term improvements.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is DMAIC and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic steps: Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control, and why this method helps solve problems systematically.
Q: What certification level have you achieved and what did you learn?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe their training, typically Green Belt, and basic understanding of Six Sigma concepts and tools.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of DMAIC methodology
- Green Belt certification
- Data collection and basic analysis
- Process mapping
Mid (2-5 years)
- Black Belt certification
- Project leadership experience
- Advanced problem-solving tools
- Team facilitation
Senior (5+ years)
- Master Black Belt level
- Program management
- Training and mentoring others
- Strategic process improvement
Red Flags to Watch For
- No formal Six Sigma certification
- Cannot provide examples of completed improvement projects
- Lack of experience with basic quality tools
- No understanding of data analysis
- Unable to explain how they measure success in projects
Related Terms
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