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Operational Excellence Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Role Description POSITION SUMMARY The Operational Excellence (OpEx) Leader is a key individual contributor within the Kalamazoo Digital Transformation and Operational Excellence organization. The ...

... operations โ€ข Research and explore opportunities to increase effective use of labor โ€ข Create measurement tools to ensure account optimization โ€ข Work with Innovation Design to develop field ...

... operations โ€ข Research and explore opportunities to increase effective use of labor โ€ข Create measurement tools to ensure account optimization โ€ข Work with Innovation Design to develop field ...

Operations Excellence Engineer

New Buffalo, MI ยท On-site

$66K - $90K/yr

We are seeking an Operations Excellence Engineer to lead the optimization of workflows and play a key role in the continuous improvement across all projects and operations. This role ensures ...

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Operational Excellence information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do operational excellence jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for operational excellence in Michigan is $18.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an operational excellence professional do?

An Operational Excellence job focuses on improving business processes, efficiency, and overall performance by implementing best practices, data-driven decision-making, and continuous improvement methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma. Professionals in this role work to optimize workflows, reduce waste, and enhance productivity across various departments. They collaborate with leadership teams to drive a culture of continuous improvement and operational efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed for operational excellence?

To thrive in Operational Excellence, you need a solid understanding of process improvement methodologies (like Lean or Six Sigma), data analysis, and change management, often backed by relevant certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Green or Black Belt. Familiarity with analytical and process mapping tools like Microsoft Visio, Minitab, and ERP systems is highly beneficial. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities are vital for driving cross-functional initiatives and engaging teams. These skills are crucial for identifying inefficiencies, implementing sustainable improvements, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within an organization.

What types of projects or initiatives does someone in operational excellence typically lead or participate in?

Professionals in Operational Excellence are often involved in projects that focus on streamlining business processes, reducing waste, and increasing quality and efficiency across departments. Typical initiatives might include leading value stream mapping sessions, conducting root cause analyses, facilitating Kaizen events, and implementing new best practices or technologies to optimize workflow. These roles frequently require cross-functional collaboration with teams in production, quality, supply chain, finance, and IT to drive impactful change. Depending on the organization, you may also be responsible for training teams on process improvement methodologies and tracking the measurable results of these efforts.

What is an operational excellence role?

An operational excellence role involves improving business processes, increasing efficiency, and reducing waste within an organization. Professionals in this role often utilize methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen and may hold certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt to drive continuous improvement initiatives.

What skills are needed for operational excellence?

Operational excellence professionals need strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and knowledge of process improvement methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen. Effective communication, teamwork, and project management skills are also essential to implement and sustain continuous improvement initiatives.

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

The most popular types of Operational Excellence jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Operational Excellence job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,618 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Operational Excellence Manager

Kalamazoo, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Role Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Operational Excellence (OpEx) Leader is a key individual contributor within the Kalamazoo Digital Transformation and Operational Excellence organization. The principal purpose of the role is to identify, initiate, and complete projects that drive business results. This involves strengthening the culture of continuous improvement and leading cross-functional teams through the rigorous application of Lean & Six Sigma methodologies to achieve measurable outcomes. This role supports the entire Kalamazoo site, partnering across all functions including Manufacturing, Quality, Laboratories, Warehouse, Supply Chain, and Finance to drive efficiency and eliminate waste. This position reports to the Senior Manager - Digital Transformation and Operational Excellence.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Conduct process evaluations and implement improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
  • Develop and manage Lean initiatives to improve system performance and efficiency.
  • Monitor the effectiveness of implemented Lean processes and make necessary adjustments.
  • Create and present reports on Lean initiatives and their impact to senior management.
  • Achieve aggressive operational targets with delivery of significant financial benefit.
  • Serve as a recognized expert to facilitate highly complex problem solving, value stream mapping and special data analysis as required.
  • Network both internally and externally to exchange learning's and ensure best practices are adopted throughout the operations.
  • Coach and train site colleagues on Lean methodology.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.
  • Minimum 5-10 years progressive work experience or equivalent in a business environment preferably manufacturing technical/engineering or supply chain management.
  • Strong understanding of Lean methodologies and principles.
  • Bachelor's degree in STEM field.
  • Demonstrated training and facilitation experience preferred.
  • Experience in data analysis and visualization preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • The work environment includes both office and manufacturing settings.
  • Approximately 75% office-based and 25% walking/standing in manufacturing areas.
  • May require use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing as per GMP standards.
  • Potential for limited domestic and/or international travel up to 5%.
  • Colleague will work in a facility that manufactures Cephalosporins and must not be Cephalosporin sensitive.
Full timeRegularColleague

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