What are the responsibilities and job description for the Operational Excellence Manager position at Graham Personnel Services?
Operational Excellence Manager – Continuous Improvement
Danville, VA
Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
We are seeking a results-driven Continuous Improvement leader to join our manufacturing team. This is a high-impact role designed for a professional who thrives on eliminating losses, optimizing processes, and building high-performing teams through Six Sigma, Kaizen, and Lean methodologies.
If you are passionate about data-driven decision making, structured problem solving, and creating sustainable operational excellence, this opportunity is for you.
What You’ll Do
As our IWS Process Lead, you will champion continuous improvement initiatives across the processing facility, embedding Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, TPM, and Kaizen principles into daily operations.
Continuous Improvement & Six Sigma Leadership
- Identify, prioritize, and eliminate process losses using structured problem-solving methodologies (DMAIC, root cause analysis, IPS/UPS).
- Lead Kaizen events and focused improvement workshops to drive measurable gains in efficiency, quality, and reliability.
- Utilize statistical tools such as S-Shape and Weibull analysis to improve process stability and performance.
- Design and implement data collection systems to monitor critical process parameters and drive fact-based decision making.
- Develop and execute 90-day action plans to deliver sustainable performance improvements.
Process Optimization & Reliability
- Improve equipment reliability and centerline performance using reliability engineering principles.
- Standardize and validate process improvements to ensure long-term sustainability.
- Drive continuous improvement of Daily Management Systems (DMS), including Centerline (CL), Changeover (CO), and Change Management (CM).
- Lead benchmarking and reapplication of best practices across operations.
Coaching & Capability Building
- Build technical capability within line teams through training, coaching, and development.
- Develop and maintain process standards and One Point Lessons (OPLs).
- Foster a culture of accountability, ownership, and self-sufficient teams.
- Support change management initiatives to ensure successful implementation of new processes and standards.
Safety & Compliance
- Promote and strengthen a proactive safety culture aligned with ISO and EHS standards.
- Identify risks, drive corrective actions, and continuously improve safety performance across the facility.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field.
- 3 years of experience in a manufacturing or production environment (Process Engineer, Project Engineer, CI Engineer, or similar).
- Hands-on experience leading Six Sigma, Kaizen, Lean Manufacturing, or TPM initiatives.
- Strong analytical mindset with the ability to translate data into actionable improvements.
- Experience driving change management in operational environments.
- Proficiency in MS Office and data analysis tools.
- Fluency in English (written and spoken).
- Passion for developing people and creating sustainable continuous improvement cultures.
Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or Black Belt) is highly valued.
Why Join Us?
We offer more than just a role — we offer a platform to lead meaningful transformation.
- Annual Performance-Based Bonus
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- Matching 401(k)
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage
- Paid Family Leave (up to 20 weeks)
- Generous PTO
- Tuition & Education Assistance
- Career Development Opportunities
- Flexible Dress Code
- Employee Assistance Program
- And a collaborative culture committed to operational excellence
If you are ready to lead Kaizen initiatives, apply Six Sigma tools, and drive continuous improvement at scale, we encourage you to apply and become a key force in our operational success.