Operations and Process Optimization Specialist

About the Role

IACMI – The Composite Institute is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Operations and Process Optimization Specialist to support our Metallurgical Engineering and Trades Apprenticeship and Learning (METAL) and Americas Cutting Edge (ACE) workforce education and development programs. This role is ideal for an individual who enjoys building systems from the ground up and can balance strategic improvement efforts with hands-on execution. The position is hybrid, with 90% remote work and 10% in-office, preferably within 1 hour of Knoxville, TN. Eligible candidates must reside in TN, MI, OH, IN, FL, WV, NC, TX, or PA.

Responsibilities

• Continuous Improvement & Process Optimization:
  • Lead continuous improvement projects across METAL and ACE programs.
  • Analyze existing workflows and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, communication, reporting, and scalability.
  • Develop standardized operating procedures, templates, and best practices.
  • Create sustainable systems that reduce administrative burden on Workforce and Program Management teams.
  • Support onboarding process improvements and knowledge management initiatives.
  • Facilitate process mapping and workflow documentation efforts.
• Systems Development & Automation:
  • Build and maintain automated workflows and reporting systems.
  • Improve data collection, tracking, and reporting processes across multiple programs.
  • Develop mobile-friendly dashboards and reporting tools for field staff and leadership.
  • Integrate and optimize platforms such as Salesforce, Monday.com, Power BI, and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Assist with CRM management, lead tracking, partner follow-up systems, and workflow automation.
  • Identify opportunities to reduce manual data entry and improve data integrity.
• Data Analytics & Reporting:
  • Create dashboards and visualizations to support leadership decision-making.
  • Monitor KPIs, milestones, partner engagement metrics, and operational performance.
  • Support monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting requirements.
  • Assist with data validation and reporting consistency between workforce and program management teams.
  • Generate actionable insights from program and engagement data.
• Workforce & Industry Engagement Support:
  • Collaborate with Workforce Coordinators to improve partner engagement systems and lead management.
  • Participate in meetings with industry partners, educational institutions, and stakeholders as needed.
  • Support conference preparation, industry outreach, and strategic engagement efforts.
  • Assist with documentation and follow-up activities related to industry partnerships and program implementation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Project Management, Information Systems, Data Analytics, Workforce Development, or related field preferred, or relevant experience considered.
• 3+ years of experience in continuous improvement, operations, project coordination, systems administration, or related roles.
• Strong experience with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
• Experience using CRM and project management platforms such as Salesforce and Monday.com.
• Experience building dashboards and reports using Power BI or similar tools.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a remote work environment.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across teams.
• Experience identifying inefficiencies and implementing scalable solutions.

Pay

Salary Range: $70,000 – $80,000 depending on experience and qualifications.

Schedule

Hybrid: 90% Remote; 10% In Office. Requires travel with overnight stays approximately 10% of the time.