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. The role focuses on driving measurable business impact through Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and structured problem‑solving methodologies, with a strong emphasis on reducing variation, eliminating waste, improving process capability, and increasing operational efficiency.

• 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 focusing 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 other structured approaches.
• Execute and coach on Lean tools including Standard Work, Daily Management Systems, SMED, 5S, Centerlining, and 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.
• Deliver projects aligned with structured prioritization frameworks such as 5‑3‑1.
• 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, and EPA.
• Support establishment and auditing of Process Control Plans, Critical Control Points, and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Investigate deviations and ensure corrective actions are implemented and sustained.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a 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.
• Ability to independently manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• 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.
• Abi…