Jobs · Education · Missouri

Director, Process Optimization

U.S. Engineering · Kansas City, MO · Today
On-siteEducation$153k–$215k/yrFull-time

Primary Purpose

The Director, Process Optimization is responsible for leading enterprise-wide operational excellence initiatives that improve efficiency, consistency, scalability, and overall business performance across the organization. This role partners closely with executive leadership and operational teams to evaluate business processes, identify improvement opportunities, implement standardized best practices, and drive continuous improvement initiatives that support strategic growth.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Operational Excellence: Develop and execute the organization's Operations Optimization strategy aligned with corporate objectives. Lead continuous improvement initiatives across all operational functions. Identify operational inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and opportunities to improve productivity, quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. Facilitate organization-wide process mapping, workflow redesign, and standardization initiatives. Establish and maintain standardized operating procedures and best practices across business units. Promote a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization.
  • Process Improvement: Analyze existing operational processes and recommend improvements that increase efficiency and reduce waste. Lead Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies where appropriate. Develop measurable performance metrics for key operational processes. Monitor implementation success and ensure improvements are sustainable. Identify opportunities for automation and digital transformation.
  • Strategic Initiatives: Lead cross-functional projects that support organizational growth and operational effectiveness. Partner with executive leadership on strategic planning initiatives. Support mergers, acquisitions, integrations, and organizational change initiatives as needed. Assist in evaluating new technologies, software platforms, and operational systems.
  • Data Analytics & Performance Measurement: Develop operational dashboards and key performance indicators (KPIs). Analyze operational data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities. Provide executive leadership with actionable recommendations based on performance analytics. Establish reporting processes that improve organizational visibility and decision-making.
  • Change Management: Lead organizational change initiatives related to operational improvements. Build stakeholder engagement and gain alignment across departments. Develop communication and implementation plans for operational changes. Provide coaching and support to leaders during organizational transitions.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Operations, Construction, Preconstruction, Safety, Finance, Human Resources, Supply Chain, Information Technology, and other departments to improve organizational performance. Facilitate collaboration between departments to eliminate silos and improve workflows. Serve as a trusted advisor to operational leaders regarding process improvement opportunities.
  • Technology & Innovation: Evaluate emerging technologies that improve operational performance. Partner with Information Technology to implement business process improvements supported by technology. Support ERP optimization, workflow automation, reporting enhancements, and digital transformation initiatives. Ensure technology solutions align with business objectives and operational needs.
  • Leadership: Build and lead high-performing project teams supporting operational initiatives. Mentor leaders in continuous improvement principles and problem-solving methodologies. Foster accountability, innovation, and collaboration throughout the organization. Champion organizational values while driving meaningful change.

Job Scope

The Director, Process Optimization serves as a catalyst for organizational change by leveraging data, technology, process improvement methodologies, and cross-functional collaboration to optimize how work is performed across the organization.

Management Responsibility

Supervisor – responsible for hiring, performance management and pay administration for subordinates. Supervised positions: Business Analyst, Project Manager.

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Construction Management, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Engineering, or a related field required. Master's degree (MBA or related discipline) preferred.
  • 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations, construction management, business transformation, process improvement, or organizational effectiveness.
  • Experience leading enterprise-wide operational improvement initiatives.
  • Experience managing complex cross-functional projects.
  • Experience implementing process improvement methodologies.
  • Experience utilizing business intelligence, reporting tools, and performance metrics.
  • Mechanical construction or industrial contracting experience is strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Strong strategic thinking and business acumen.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Proven ability to lead organizational change.
  • Strong project management capabilities.
  • Excellent facilitation and presentation skills.
  • Ability to influence without direct authority.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong financial and operational analysis capabilities.
  • Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Proficiency with ERP systems, Microsoft Power BI, Microsoft Office Suite, and business analytics tools.
  • Ability to balance strategic initiatives with tactical execution.

Core Competencies

  • Strategic Mindset
  • Business Insight
  • Organizational Savvy
  • Decision Quality
  • Drives Results
  • Manages Complexity
  • Optimizes Work Processes
  • Courage
  • Collaborates
  • Communicates Effectively
  • Customer Focus
  • Plans and Aligns
  • Ensures Accountability
  • Instills Trust

Physical and Travel Demands

Working Conditions: Primarily office-based with periodic travel to regional offices and construction project sites. Occasional overnight travel required. Ability to conduct site visits in active construction environments while adhering to all safety requirements.

Physical Requirements: Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use a computer for extended periods. Ability to travel between office locations and project sites. Ability to access construction sites while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE). Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.

Benefits and Compensation

  • Salary range: $153,120.00 - $215,000.00 per year, based on factors including internal equity, experience, education, specialty, and training.
  • Year-end bonus based on company and/or individual performance.
  • Paid time off.
  • Industry-leading benefits package including health, dental, and vision plans.
  • Matching retirement contributions and matching 529 contributions.

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