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.

The ideal candidate is a hands‑on change agent who thrives on Gemba‑based execution, cross‑functional collaboration, and leading multiple high‑impact initiatives simultaneously. This individual will play a key role in embedding a culture of operational excellence through standardization, disciplined execution, and data‑driven decision making.

• On‑site role based in Smithfield, Utah

• $10,000 relocation bonus
• Comprehensive relocation assistance for candidates relocating more than 50 miles

• 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 Lean and Six Sigma initiatives utilizing DMAIC, Kaizen, A3 problem solving, and structured problem‑solving methodologies
• Execute and coach on Lean tools including:
• Standard Work
• Daily Management Systems
• SMED (Single‑Minute Exchange of Dies)
• 5S
• Centerlining
• Process Controls
• Apply experimental design and statistical methods to improve process capability and reduce variation
• Ensure consistent application of Lean principles across operations and support functions

• 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

• Analyze plant‑level KPIs to identify trends, gaps, and improvement opportunities
• Establish baselines, control limits, and performance standards using statistical methods
• Translate operational data into actionable insights and improvement strategies
• Conduct financial impact analysis to quantify project benefits and ROI

• Drive standardization of plant processes, equipment usage, and operational best practices
• Collaborate with plant leadership to define and maintain process controls, standard work, and critical process parameters
• 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
• EPA
• Support establishment and auditing of:
• PCPs (Process Control Plans)
• CCPs (Critical Control Points)
• SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)
• Investigate deviations and ensure corrective actions are implemented and sustained

• 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…