Operations Engineer

We are seeking an experienced Operational Excellence Engineer to join our manufacturing operations team. This is a high-impact role responsible for driving Continuous Improvement, Lean initiatives, and operational transformation within a large-scale manufacturing environment.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with 10 years of hands-on OPEX experience in a manufacturing facility and proven expertise in Lean, TPS, and process improvement methodologies.

This role is Onsite at Ohio or Florida Needs 50% Travel

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as an active, hands-on member of the OpX team, working directly on the manufacturing floor.
• Drive the implementation of Lean Manufacturing, Toyota Production System (TPS), and Continuous Improvement initiatives.
• Lead multi-year cost reduction projects and develop a sustainable pipeline of improvement opportunities.
• Facilitate Kaizen events and provide coaching on Lean tools across all levels of the organization.
• Train employees and leaders in problem-solving, standard work, 5S, SMED, and other Lean methodologies.
• Analyze operational data (OEE, downtime, waste, performance metrics) to identify trends and define improvement priorities.
• Support root cause analysis activities using tools such as 5 Whys, Yamazumi charts, process flow mapping, and value stream mapping.
• Create and maintain process documentation, SOPs, and visual management systems.
• Promote a team-based culture focused on engagement, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Collaborate with leadership to align improvement efforts with strategic business objectives.
• Support change management to ensure sustainability of implemented improvements.
• Manage and coach Kaizen Technicians and provide leadership support to Production Managers.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field OR equivalent experience.
• Minimum 10 years of Operational Excellence experience in a manufacturing environment (mandatory).
• Strong background in Lean Manufacturing (TPS) with 7–10 years of hands-on application.
• Experience enforcing safety policies in manufacturing settings.
• Proficiency in SAP and Microsoft Office.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, influence without authority, and work in a multicultural environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including experience with:
• Kaizen
• SMED
• 5S
• Visual Management
• Standard Work Development
• Pull Systems & Flow Design
• Value Stream Mapping
• DMAIC
• Cost reduction project leadership
• Experience in high-mix, low-volume production environments.