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Operational Excellence Pharmaceutical Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Baxter

Sr Manager, Operational Excellence

Round Lake, IL · On-site

$136K - $187K/yr

The Senior Manager, Operations Excellence is responsible for managing and directing the process ... Preferably in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or comparable environments. * Minimum 5 years in a ...

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How much do operational excellence pharmaceutical jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for operational excellence pharmaceutical in the United States is $19.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Who are the big 4 in pharma?

The Big 4 pharmaceutical companies are Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Merck & Co., and Novartis. These companies are among the largest in the industry, often leading in research, manufacturing, and global market share, which can impact roles in operational excellence within pharma organizations.

How does an Operational Excellence role in the pharmaceutical industry typically interact with cross-functional teams?

In a pharmaceutical company, Operational Excellence professionals work closely with cross-functional teams such as manufacturing, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, and supply chain. Their role involves facilitating process improvements, standardizing best practices, and driving initiatives that enhance efficiency and compliance. This collaboration often includes leading workshops, coordinating kaizen events, and collecting feedback to ensure that proposed changes are practical and align with regulatory standards. Effective communication and the ability to influence without direct authority are crucial for success in these interactions.

What is Operational Excellence in the pharmaceutical industry?

Operational Excellence in the pharmaceutical industry refers to a systematic approach to improving business processes, increasing efficiency, and ensuring high-quality standards throughout the drug development and manufacturing lifecycle. It involves the application of methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement to streamline operations, reduce waste, and comply with strict regulatory requirements. Professionals in this field focus on optimizing workflows, enhancing productivity, and fostering a culture of innovation and compliance. This ultimately leads to safer products, faster time-to-market, and cost savings for pharmaceutical companies.

What is the difference between Operational Excellence Pharmaceutical vs Quality Assurance Specialist?

AspectOperational Excellence PharmaceuticalQuality Assurance Specialist
CredentialsLean Six Sigma, GMP knowledge, industry certificationsGMP, ISO, QA certifications, relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, process improvement teamsQuality labs, compliance departments
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical manufacturing, process optimizationPharmaceutical companies, regulatory compliance

Operational Excellence Pharmaceutical focuses on process improvement, efficiency, and lean methodologies within pharmaceutical manufacturing. In contrast, Quality Assurance Specialists concentrate on ensuring product quality, compliance, and regulatory standards. While both roles require GMP knowledge and industry certifications, their primary focus areas differ—one optimizes processes, the other ensures quality standards are met.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Operational Excellence within the pharmaceutical industry, and why are they important?

To excel in Operational Excellence in the pharmaceutical sector, you need a solid background in process improvement methodologies (such as Lean, Six Sigma), analytical skills, and a degree in engineering, pharmacy, or related fields. Familiarity with quality management systems, data analysis tools, and certifications like Six Sigma Green/Black Belt are typically required. Outstanding problem-solving, change management, and communication skills help individuals lead cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement. These capabilities are crucial for optimizing processes, ensuring compliance, and maintaining high-quality standards in a highly regulated industry.
Infographic showing various Operational Excellence Pharmaceutical job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,139 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Operational Excellence Manager

Operational Excellence Manager

West Pharmaceutical Services

Kearney, NE • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

West Pharmaceutical Services rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 109 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

At West, we're a dedicated team that is connected by a purpose to improve patient lives that has been at the center of our Company for more than a century. Our story began when Herman O. West solved the problem of supplying penicillin in mass quantities to the US Government during World War 2. Through our work to deliver thousands of life-saving and life-enhancing injectable medicines to millions of patients daily, West's indelible mark on the healthcare industry has just begun. A name started our story. How will yours help write our future?
There's no better place to join an inclusive community of professionals with opportunities for lifelong learning, growth and development. Supported by benefit programs, we empower the physical, mental, emotional and financial health of our team members and their families.
We believe in giving back to help those in need in the communities where we live and work. And are equally committed to creating a healthier environment and planet through our sustainability efforts.
Job Summary
This is a fully onsite position.The duties of the process excellence manager are to function as a member of the plant managers staff and to identify problems, clearly and accurately define problem statements and apply structured/disciplined methodology (Lean and/or Six Sigma) addressing data-driven root causes. Lead process improvement projects that are focused on delivering sustainable increases in productivity, profitability and customer satisfaction across a range of business processes and functions. Manage all site tooling including validation, repair, replacement, etc.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Manage and direct the process engineering group. Manage of 3 or more people is typical.
  • Prepare objectives, appraisals and development plans for direct reports.
  • Collaborate with Global and Local Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to standardize best practices, drive continuous improvement, and ensure alignment with enterprise initiatives.
  • Partner cross-functionally with all departments (Operations, Quality, Engineering, Supply Chain, Finance, etc.) to support quality improvements, cost reduction initiatives, and production performance.
  • Serve as an active member of the Site Leadership Team, contributing to strategic planning, operational decision-making, and business performance reviews.
  • Facilitate the Plant Team to reduce variation, yield savings, improve quality, meet Customer's needs while achieving Plant and Corporate goals.
  • Accountable for delivering tangible results, effective change management approaches and best practice project management techniques.
  • Interact with all departments to support quality, cost savings and production needs.
  • Provide project leadership by coordinating the efforts of the various departmental disciplines for the successful completion of projects according to plan and budget.
  • Develop initial project scope, timelines, savings and cost estimates.
  • Leads qualification of new and repaired equipment.
  • Guides the activities of technicians/operators performing process improvement functions.
  • Monitor projects to ensure they remain on schedule and budget and track delivered results.
  • Verify and track cost savings for Plant Bonus efforts.
  • Write technical reports as required.
  • Write and revise procedures and S.O.I.'s to ensure the equipment is operated and maintained according to good manufacturing practices.
  • Write design of experiments (DOE's) as required to address plant issues or test new approaches.
  • Assists with facility/supplier audits and meetings, as required.
  • Perform other duties as directed

Education
  • High School Diploma/GED required.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, or Chemical) or similar degree highly preferred.

Work Experience
  • Minimum 5 years of relatable experience and in leadership required

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Excellent communication skills (in English)
  • Ability to assert technical solutions and standards in an international environment
  • Ability to collaborate well with people across different countries
  • Self-motivated, results- and solution-oriented personality
  • Working knowledge of SPC and Minitab software
  • Able to be aware of all relevant standard operating procedures as per Company policy as they are related to the position covered by this Job Description
  • Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (or Green Belt with solid track of lean improvements).
  • Able to comply with the company's safety and quality policies at all times

Travel Requirements
10%: Up to 26 business days per year
Physical Requirements
Sedentary-Exerting up to 10lbs/4kgs of force occasionally, and/or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time.
Additional Requirements
  • Able to routinely use standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Position operates in a professional office environment. May stand or sit for extended periods of time
  • Must be able to communicate effectively with written and oral skills, make quick decisions, interpret data, read and write, speak in front of groups, express and exchange ideas, understand direction and adhere to procedures
  • Organizational skills will enable planning, prioritization and achievement of goals especially of importance for the successful execution of related activities
  • Read and interpret data, information and documents
  • Must maintain the ability to work well with others in a variety of situations
  • Must be able to multi-task, work under time constraints, problem solve, and prioritize
  • Ability to make independent and sound judgments
  • Observe and interpret situations, analyze and solve problems

West embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We foster an environment where all individuals are safe, treated fairly, valued and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or other applicable legally protected characteristics. Where permitted by law, employment with West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. or any of its subsidiary or affiliate companies, is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of post-offer background screening.
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