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Freelance Operational Excellence Lead Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carrier

Operational Excellence Lead

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$96K - $192K/yr

Support the transformation of the operation to the Carrier Excellence (Cx) standards via a ... Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on plant layout optimization, material flow, cell ...

BuzzBallz

Operational Excellence Lead

Louisville, KY

As an Operational Excellence Lead , you will partner with plant operations and cross-functional teams to improve productivity, reduce costs, and strengthen performance across Safety, Quality, Service ...

Bayer Inc.

Operational Excellence Lead

Myerstown, PA · On-site

Operational Excellence Lead This role leads all Operational Excellence and Capabilities activities, for the CH PS NA Myerstown site. The role leads a dynamic team and is accountable to spearhead the ...

Sazerac Company

Operational Excellence Lead

Louisville, KY · On-site

$105K - $158K/yr

As an Operational Excellence Lead , you will partner with plant operations and cross-functional teams to improve productivity, reduce costs, and strengthen performance across Safety, Quality, Service ...

BuzzBallz

Operational Excellence Lead

Carrollton, TX · On-site

As an Operational Excellence Lead , you will partner with plant operations and cross-functional teams to improve productivity, reduce costs, and strengthen performance across Safety, Quality, Service ...

Bayer

Operational Excellence Lead

Myerstown, PA · On-site

Operational Excellence Lead This role leads all Operational Excellence and Capabilities activities, for the CH PS NA Myerstown site. The role leads a dynamic team and is accountable to spearhead the ...

Bayer

Operational Excellence Lead

Myerstown, PA · On-site

Operational Excellence Lead This role leads all Operational Excellence and Capabilities activities, for the CH PS NA Myerstown site. The role leads a dynamic team and is accountable to spearhead the ...

Formlabs

Operational Excellence Lead

Somerville, MA · On-site

As an Operations Excellence Lead you will work at the cross section of business, operations, and systems. You will work to solve the most pressing priorities of Formlabs Global Operations which ...

Formlabs

Operational Excellence Lead

Somerville, MA · On-site

As an Operations Excellence Lead you will work at the cross section of business, operations, and systems. You will work to solve the most pressing priorities of Formlabs Global Operations which ...

Formlabs

Operational Excellence Lead

Boston, MA · On-site

As an Operations Excellence Lead you will work at the cross section of business, operations, and systems. You will work to solve the most pressing priorities of Formlabs Global Operations which ...

Formlabs

Operational Excellence Lead

Boston, MA · On-site

As an Operations Excellence Lead you will work at the cross section of business, operations, and systems. You will work to solve the most pressing priorities of Formlabs Global Operations which ...

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Freelance Operational Excellence Lead information

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How much do freelance operational excellence lead jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance operational excellence lead in the United States is $27.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance operational excellence lead?

A Freelance Operational Excellence Lead is an independent professional who helps organizations improve their business processes, increase efficiency, and drive continuous improvement projects on a contract basis. They typically leverage methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and other process improvement frameworks to identify inefficiencies and implement solutions. Unlike full-time employees, freelancers in this role work with multiple clients, offering flexibility and specialized expertise for specific projects or timeframes. Their responsibilities often include analyzing workflows, training staff, and ensuring that operational changes align with business goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance operational excellence lead?

To thrive as a Freelance Operational Excellence Lead, you need strong analytical skills, expertise in process improvement methodologies (such as Lean or Six Sigma), and a proven track record in operational transformation, often supported by a relevant degree and industry certifications (e.g., Lean Six Sigma Black Belt). Familiarity with process mapping software, project management tools, and data analytics platforms is typically required. Outstanding communication, stakeholder management, and change leadership abilities distinguish top performers in this role. These skills enable effective identification, implementation, and sustainment of operational improvements that drive business value for clients.

What are some common challenges faced by a freelance operational excellence lead when working with multiple clients simultaneously?

A Freelance Operational Excellence Lead often manages several client projects at once, which can present challenges such as balancing competing priorities and adapting to different organizational cultures. Each client may have unique processes, expectations, and communication styles, requiring the Lead to quickly assess and tailor solutions that fit specific needs. Effective time management, strong stakeholder engagement, and clear communication are essential to ensure that all projects progress smoothly and deliver value. Building trust quickly and demonstrating results in a short time frame are also key aspects of success in this flexible, client-facing role.

What is the difference between Freelance Operational Excellence Lead vs Freelance Process Improvement Consultant?

AspectFreelance Operational Excellence LeadFreelance Process Improvement Consultant
CredentialsLean Six Sigma, PMP, or similar certificationsLean Six Sigma, Kaizen, or similar certifications
Work EnvironmentLeading projects, managing teams, implementing strategiesAnalyzing processes, recommending improvements, training teams
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, healthcare, finance, consulting firmsManufacturing, logistics, service industries, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentSeeking leadership roles in operational excellence projectsLooking for process improvement expertise and consulting services

The Freelance Operational Excellence Lead typically takes on leadership roles, managing projects and teams to implement operational strategies. In contrast, the Freelance Process Improvement Consultant focuses on analyzing and recommending process enhancements, often providing expert advice without direct management responsibilities. Both roles require similar certifications and industry experience but differ mainly in scope and level of responsibility.

What cities are hiring for Freelance Operational Excellence Lead jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Operational Excellence Lead job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Operational Excellence Lead jobs?

The most popular types of Operational Excellence Lead jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Operational Excellence Lead jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Operational Excellence Lead jobs include:

Freelance Operational Excellence Lead jobs near you

Operational Excellence Lead

Charlotte, NC • On-site

Carrier
Construction Materials Wholesalers • 10K+ employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

328th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Carrierexternal

$96K - $192K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About Carrier
Carrier Global Corporation, global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, is committed to creating innovations that bring comfort, safety and sustainability to life. Through cutting-edge advancements in climate solutions such as temperature control, air quality and transportation, we improve lives, empower critical industries and ensure safe transport of food, lifesaving medicines and more. Since inventing modern air conditioning in 1902, we lead with purpose: enhancing the lives we live and the world we share. We continue to lead because of our world-class, inclusive workforce that puts the customer at the center of everything we do. For more information, visit corporate.carrier.com or follow on Carrier social media at @Carrier.
Position Summary
Carrier Operations is looking for a high performance & goal oriented professional to lead Lean initiatives throughout our CHVAC Charlotte factory through the full value stream (suppliers, internal operations and customers). Support the transformation of the operation to the Carrier Excellence (Cx) standards via a structured process and series of activities and events. This position provides great visibility to each Site within BU's as well as divisional WHQ. Success will be defined by the successful transformation of sites, and improvement in the relevant KPI's. You must be an expert in Lean including Cell Design, Manufacturing Standard Work, Material Presentation, and Lean Logistics. You will be running projects as well as coaching others and developing standards. This position will report to the Carrier Excellence Manager, and be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:
This role is individual-contributor focused, reports directly to site operational leadership, and requires an on-site presence in Charlotte, NC with minimal to no travel.
Key Responsibilities
  • Strategic Lean Leadership: Drive sustainable operational improvements and guide site leadership in translating business goals into actionable Lean Macro Plans.
  • Plant Transformation & Efficiency: Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on plant layout optimization, material flow, cell design, and logistics (including 3PL process alignment).
  • Data Center Expansion Support: Partner with cross-functional teams to support high-priority growth initiatives for data center manufacturing lines.
  • Kaizen Event Facilitation: Personally plan, lead, and facilitate Kaizen events and value-stream mapping activities from end-to-end.
  • Financial & KPI Ownership: Maintain a robust pipeline of Productivity Improvement Projects (PIP) to deliver year-over-year cost savings and positive changes in key metrics (lead time, schedule stability, inventory, and Plan For Every Part/PFEP).
  • Mentorship & Coaching: Coach and mentor site resources to expand the internal network of event leaders and remove project-level execution barriers.
  • Cross-Functional Communication: Articulate technical concepts, productivity strategies, and operational results effectively to shop-floor operators, functional managers, and executive leadership.
  • Audits & Standards: Perform workplace audits, conduct risk assessments, and establish standard work in alignment with Carrier Excellence (Cx) guidelines.

Basic Qualifications (BQs)
  • Bachelor's Degree.
  • 7+ years of experience in manufacturing operations with progressive technical or leadership responsibilities.
  • 3+ years of experience in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Operational Excellence, including demonstrated experience leading and facilitating cross-functional Kaizen events.

Preferred Qualifications (PQs)
  • Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Supply Chain, or a related discipline.
  • Active Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification (or equivalent recognized Lean certification, such as Gemba Academy or internal enterprise programs).
  • Prior experience in high-volume manufacturing (e.g., Automotive) OR high-customization / job-shop manufacturing environments.
  • Deep expertise in Manufacturing Standard Work, Cell Design, Integrated Production & Logistics, PFEP (Plan For Every Part), and Third-Party Logistics integration.
  • Demonstrated ability to self-direct, execute with speed, and communicate effectively across all organizational tiers.
  • Commitment to obtaining Carrier Excellence (Cx) Practitioner certification within the first 1.5 years of employment

Pay Range
The annual salary for this position is between $96,000.00 - $192,000.00 annually. Factors which may affect pay within this range include, but are not limited to, skills, education, experience, and other unique qualifications of the successful candidate.
Other Compensation
This position is entitled to short-term cash incentives, subject to plan requirements.
Benefits
Employees are eligible for benefits, including:
  • Health Care Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision; Wellness incentives
  • Retirement Benefits
  • Time off and Leave: Paid vacation days, up to 15 days; paid sick days, up to 5 days; paid personal leave, up to 5 days; paid holidays, up to 13 days; birth and adoption leave; parental leave; family and medical leave; bereavement leave; jury duty leave; military leave; purchased vacation
  • Disability: Short-term and long-term disability
  • Life Insurance and Accidental Death and Dismemberment
  • Tax-Advantaged Accounts: Health Savings Account; Health Care Spending Account; Dependent Care Spending Account
  • Tuition Assistance

To learn more about our benefits offering, please click here Work with us | Carrier CorporateThe specific benefits available to any employee may vary depending on state and local laws and eligibility factors, such as date of hire and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Carrier EEO Statement and Accommodations Process
Carrier is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status or any other applicable state or federal protected class. Carrier provides affirmative action in employment for qualified individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with section 503 of Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, participate in an interview, or otherwise engage in the hiring process, please contact us at Carrier.Recruiting@carrier.com. We will make every effort to meet your needs in accordance with applicable laws.
Application Deadline
Applications will be accepted for at least 3 days from Job Posting Date: 7 August 2026
Job Applicant's Privacy Notice
Please click on the link to review the Job Applicant Privacy Notice.
Use of AI
Technology-enabled tools may support parts of the recruitment process, with oversight by people.
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About Carrier

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Carrier is the leading global provider of healthy, safe and sustainable building and cold chain solutions with a world-class, diverse workforce with business segments covering HVAC, refrigeration, and fire and security. We make modern life possible by delivering safer, smarter and more sustainable services that make a difference to people and our planet while revolutionizing industry trends. This is why we come to work every day. Join us and we can make a difference together.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Palm Beach Gardens, FL, US

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