Operational Excellence Engineer

About the Role

At RAM Aerospace, the stakes are high — the components we build don't just perform, they have to be perfect. As an Operational Excellence Engineer, you'll be at the center of that standard, driving the Lean and continuous improvement initiatives that keep our manufacturing operations sharp, efficient, and built to scale. You'll partner across engineering, production, and quality teams to identify waste, redesign processes, and embed a culture of relentless improvement into everything we do. This is a role for someone who is equally comfortable leading a kaizen event on the shop floor as they are analyzing throughput data to uncover the next opportunity. Your work will directly impact our ability to deliver mission-critical aerospace components on time and to the exacting standards our customers and the missions they support depend on.

Responsibilities

• Lean Program Leadership: Champion the design, execution, and sustainment of Lean initiatives across RAM's manufacturing operations. Lead kaizen events from charter through follow-up, ensuring improvements are implemented, measured, and locked in — not left on a whiteboard.
• Process Analysis & Waste Elimination: Apply value stream mapping, time studies, and data analysis to identify inefficiencies across production workflows. Translate findings into actionable improvement roadmaps with clear owners, timelines, and measurable outcomes tied to throughput, cost, and quality.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Serve as a trusted partner to production supervisors, manufacturing engineers, and quality teams. Facilitate structured problem-solving sessions using tools like A3, 5 Why, and DMAIC to drive root cause resolution and sustainable corrective action.
• Training & Culture Development: Build Lean capability at every level of the organization. Develop and deliver training on continuous improvement methodologies, coach employees through improvement projects, and help shift the cultural mindset from reactive firefighting to proactive process ownership.
• Metrics & Performance Management: Own the development and maintenance of operational KPIs and visual management systems. Track improvement project performance, report progress to leadership, and use data to validate that changes are delivering the intended impact on the floor.
• Standard Work & Documentation: Establish and maintain standard work documentation for improved processes, ensuring changes are captured accurately, communicated clearly, and integrated into training and quality systems.

Requirements

• Must be able to pass a comprehensive criminal background check and drug screening.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum (due to ITAR requirements).
• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field required.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in an operational excellence, continuous improvement, or industrial engineering role, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Lean methodologies including Value Stream Mapping, 5S, Kaizen, Standard Work, and Kanban.
• Hands-on experience facilitating kaizen events and leading cross-functional improvement teams.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab, or equivalent); experience with ERP systems a plus.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification required; Black Belt preferred.
• Strong communication and facilitation skills — able to present to leadership and coach on the shop floor with equal effectiveness.
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other high-complexity, regulated manufacturing environments strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and drive results in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance: Comprehensive coverage to keep you and your family healthy.
• Short-Term Disability & Voluntary Benefits: Additional protection and peace of mind when you need it most.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal, financial, and emotional well-being.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) & Paid Holidays: Generous time off to relax, travel, and spend time with loved ones.
• Paid Parental Leave: Time to bond with your new addition and transition smoothly back to work.
• 401(K) Retirement Account: Plan for your future with our 401(K) retirement account, complete with an employer match.
• Tuition Assistance: Invest in your education and future growth with our tuition assistance program.
• Flexible Work Schedule: Balance your work and personal life with a flexible work schedule.

We are committed to creating an environment where our employees can thrive both personally and professionally.