Job Summary The Operational Excellence Manager is responsible for leading continuous improvement initiatives that improve safety, quality, productivity, cost, and delivery across CNC manufacturing operations. This role drives Lean Manufacturing practices, optimizes production processes, improves OEE, and partners cross-functionally to deliver sustainable operational improvements. The position works closely with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, Logistics, CNC programming, and production teams to identify opportunities, solve problems, and improve manufacturing performance. Responsibilities Lead the plant's operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, TPM, and related methodologies. Analyze manufacturing processes to identify and implement improvements in cycle time, machine utilization, throughput, labor efficiency, quality, and cost. Monitor and drive improvement of key performance indicators, including OEE, scrap, downtime, setup time, productivity, and on-time delivery. Partner with CNC programmers, machinists, Engineering, and Maintenance to optimize machining processes, tooling, fixtures, and production flow. Lead setup reduction (SMED), standardized work, and process capability improvement initiatives. Facilitate structured root cause analysis and corrective actions using tools such as 5 Why, Fishbone, PFMEA, PDCA, and DMAIC. Develop dashboards and utilize ERP/SAP and manufacturing data to identify trends, prioritize improvement opportunities, and measure results. Lead cross-functional Kaizen events, workshops, and improvement projects. Coach managers, supervisors, and production employees on Lean principles, problem solving, and continuous improvement practices. Partner with Quality and Operations to support applicable quality standards, customer requirements, and a culture of safety and operational discipline. Present improvement priorities, project status, and measurable results to plant leadership. Ensure improvements are documented, standardized, and sustained. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, or a related field; equivalent relevant education and manufacturing experience may be considered. 5+ years of experience in CNC manufacturing, precision machining, or a related manufacturing environment. 3+ years leading operational excellence or continuous improvement initiatives. Strong knowledge of CNC machining processes, tooling, fixtures, and production flow. Demonstrated knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen, 5S, TPM, SMED, and structured problem-solving methods. Experience improving manufacturing KPIs such as OEE, scrap, downtime, productivity, and throughput. Strong analytical, project management, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills. Experience with ERP/SAP systems, manufacturing data, and Microsoft Excel. Preferred Qualifications Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt. PMP or Continuous Improvement certification. Experience with CNC milling, turning, grinding, and multi-axis machining. Familiarity with CAD/CAM and production planning systems. This job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties, responsibilities, skills, or qualifications associated with the position.

Pay:

$110,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Referral program Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person