Operational Excellence Leader

Springfield, NJ
Full Time
Experienced

Job Summary

We are seeking a results-driven Operational Excellence Specialist to support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance safety, quality, delivery, and cost efficiency. This role reports to the Manager of Operational Excellence and will drive Lean Manufacturing methodologies, facilitate Kaizen events, and promote a culture of operational excellence across the organization. The ideal candidate will have a strong analytical mindset, hands-on problem-solving skills, and experience leading cross-functional projects.

Key Responsibilities

  • Drive a metrics-based, data-driven culture with a focus on continuous improvement.
  • Monitor and analyze performance metrics to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for cost savings and quality enhancements.
  • Deploy Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement (CI) methodologies throughout the organization.
  • Collaborate with Manufacturing and Quality teams to reduce scrap, rework, and defects through targeted Lean/CI initiatives.
  • Facilitate company-wide Kaizen events to drive process efficiency, waste reduction, and cost savings.
  • Develop and maintain process maps for project execution and process improvement efforts.
  • Coach and train employees at all levels on Lean principles and problem-solving methodologies.
  • Support key suppliers in adopting Lean methodologies to enhance the overall supply chain.
  • Engage with customers to incorporate best practices and align operational goals.
  • Implement and sustain a visual workplace using metrics, 6S, and standard work.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, attention to detail, and adherence to Valcor’s Personal Guarantee Program and Quality Management System (QMS).
  • Lead large-scale, cross-functional projects, ensuring timely execution and measurable outcomes.
  • Provide timely and accurate project updates to stakeholders across all levels of the organization.

Competencies & Skills

  • Strong leadership and project management abilities.
  • Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and drive alignment.
  • Excellent communication skills for coaching, training, and presenting to diverse audiences.
  • Technical aptitude and a strong understanding of Lean, Six Sigma, and TPM methodologies.
  • Strong business acumen and the ability to align operational improvements with strategic goals.
  • Bias for action, with a problem-solving and analytical mindset.
  • Ability to manage ambiguity, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines under pressure.
  • Strong attention to detail and time management skills.

Required Education & Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Engineering, or a related field.
  • 3-5 years of experience in Operational Excellence, Continuous Improvement, and Lean Manufacturing.
  • DMAIC Green Belt certification or equivalent experience in Lean, TPM, or Six Sigma methodologies.
  • Proven project management experience, including leading/managing cross-functional initiatives and timelines.
  • Proficiency in MS Word, MS Excel, MS Visio, and MS PowerPoint.
  • Experience in training and coaching others in problem-solving methodologies is preferred.
  • Experience with statistical analysis software (Minitab, JMP, etc.) is a plus.

Why Join Us?

  • Opportunity to work in a dynamic, high-impact role where you will lead meaningful change.
  • A collaborative and innovation-driven culture that values continuous improvement.
  • Competitive salary, benefits, and professional development opportunities.

We are an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.

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