Operational Excellence Engineer

Overview

We are seeking a highly driven Operational Excellence Engineer to lead plant-level continuous improvement initiatives within a high-volume manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for driving measurable business impact through Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and structured problem-solving methodologies, with a strong focus on reducing variation, eliminating waste, improving process capability, and increasing operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion the Operational Excellence culture and drive adoption across the plant

• Lead execution of continuous improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, quality improvement, capacity expansion, and risk mitigation

• Identify plant-level opportunities and translate them into structured, measurable improvement projects

• Drive execution discipline through standardized processes and performance accountability

• Lead and manage multiple concurrent improvement projects (up to 30 initiatives at once)

• Run and coordinate plant-level master schedules across departments to ensure alignment of improvement initiatives

• Deliver projects aligned with 5-3-1 or similar structured prioritization frameworks

• Ensure all initiatives deliver quantifiable financial, operational, or quality impact

• Track progress, remove barriers, and ensure timely execution across all active projects

• Drive standardization of plant processes, equipment usage, and operational best practices

• Support development and refinement of master schedules and production alignment processes

• Ensure alignment between process capability and customer requirements

• Partner closely with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams

• Facilitate Lean training and capability building across all levels of the organization

• Coach leaders and team members on Continuous Improvement principles and execution discipline

• Support cultural transformation through hands-on leadership and Gemba engagement

• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory and customer requirements, including:

  • FDA
  • USDA
  • OSHA
  • EPAS

• Investigate deviations and ensure corrective actions are implemented and sustained

• Support establishment and auditing of: PCPs (Process Control Plans), CCPs (Critical Control Points), SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)

Qualifications

• Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical field
  • 3+ years of experience in engineering, operations, or continuous improvement roles
  • Strong manufacturing experience with high-volume production environments
  • Green Belt certification (required)
  • Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and tools
  • Strong analytical skills, including data collection, interpretation, and statistical analysis
  • Proficiency with MS Office and data tools (Excel required; Minitab preferred)
  • Strong communication and facilitation skills
  • Ability to independently manage multiple complex projects simultaneously
  • Ability to travel up to 10%

• PREFERRED:

  • Black Belt certification (preferred)
  • Experience in continuous process manufacturing environments
  • Knowledge of DMAIC, DFSS, and change management methodologies
  • Familiarity with supply chain, logistics, and production scheduling systems
  • Experience facilitating cross-functional training and organizational change
  • Strong financial acumen related to cost savings and operational impact

Benefits

• 401(k) with strong employer match
• Employee stock ownership program (ESOP)
• Performance-based incentive opportunities
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Wellness and fitness reimbursement programs
• Paid vacation and holidays
• Relocation assistance
• Professional development and education support