Operational Excellence Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Working at Knobelsdorff (KE)

Along with building state-of-the-art projects, we build meaningful careers, lasting opportunities, and teams of dedicated individuals who truly own their work. As a leading turnkey specialty contractor specializing in Automation, Electric, Energy, and Power Services, our team tackles challenging, cutting-edge projects that provide opportunities to build new skills, confidence, and gain valuable hands-on experience in a variety of different industries. We tackle industrial electrical installations, advanced automation systems, and renewable energy solutions.

Since our founding as a family-owned company in 1988, we've grown while staying true to our core values. Starting your career with KE means joining a culture that values your contributions, moves quickly, takes calculated risks, and celebrates team members who step up and own their work.

If you're ready to join a team where your voice matters, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated, KE is the place for you.

The Operational Excellence Business Partner supports the division by driving continuous improvement, process standardization, and execution through strong cross-functional collaboration. You’ll be responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing operational excellence initiatives that directly impact efficiency, compliance, quality, and project success.

Success in this role means delivering measurable improvements, supporting strategic growth, and fostering a culture of excellence, all while upholding KE’s commitment to Safety, People, Passion, and Performance. If you take pride in disciplined processes, data-driven decision-making, and influencing positive change, this role is built for you.

What You’ll Do

You’ll be part of a team that gets things done, works with purpose, and takes pride in the results. Your day-to-day responsibilities may include:

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, quality, and reliability
• Develop, document, and refine standardized processes, SOPs, and playbooks
• Facilitate Lean and continuous improvement methodologies (Kaizen, PDCA, Leader Standard Work, etc.)
• Partner with operational leaders to identify improvement opportunities and implement sustainable solutions
• Define, track, and report key performance indicators related to operational excellence
• Lead structured problem-solving and root cause analysis efforts
• Support change management initiatives and promote adoption of new processes and tools
• Provide coaching, training, and mentorship to leaders and frontline teams
• Collaborate cross-functionally to support project success and strategic goals

What You Bring

You’re someone who shows up ready to work hard, learn fast, and contribute to a team that takes pride in doing things right. Successful candidates typically bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field OR equivalent experience (4:1 ratio)
• 3–5 years of experience in operational roles with exposure to Operational Excellence or Continuous Improvement initiatives
• Proficiency in CI/OpEx tools and methodologies
• Strong ability to analyze workflows, processes, and performance data
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to influence without direct authority
• Commitment to safety and quality standards
• Ability to travel as required

Bonus Points

• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or higher
• 5+ years of experience in Operational Excellence or Continuous Improvement
• Experience in construction, energy, or industrial environments
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams
• Experience with strategic planning and change management
• Experience coaching field teams and implementing on-site improvements
• Familiarity with ERP/CRM tools
• Data analytics and KPI reporting experience

Pay Range

We believe in paying for the value you bring to the team, and we aim to be competitive in every market we hire in.

Pay Range: $96,200 - $127,200 per year

Total Rewards Statement

As a full-time employee at KE, you'll have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and future.

• 100% employer-paid health and dental coverage for employees
• HSA contributions to support your medical expenses
• Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage
• 401(k) with competitive company match
• Paid weekly with competitive wages
• PTO, six paid holidays, and education reimbursement
• Exclusive employee discounts through Working Advantage

We believe your work should be rewarded with more than just a paycheck. At KE, we invest in your total wellbeing.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

Typical requirements may include:

• Ability to sit for extended periods while working on a computer
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, crouching, and climbing
• Ability to lift, carry, and move materials up to 25 pounds independently
• Use of hands and arms to handle tools, materials, and equipment
• Ability to work at various heights when visiting job sites
• Exposure to outdoor weather conditions and active construction environments

Accessibility: If you need accommodations as part of the employment process, please contact KE Human Resources at HR@KEway.com.

Workplace Environment

This role primarily works in a professional office environment with standard equipment such as computers, phones, printers, conference rooms, and presentation spaces.

• Occasional visits to industrial, commercial, or job sites with exposure to varying temperatures, noise, and moving equipment
• PPE is required when on-site, including hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection
• Work hours may vary by project needs, including early starts, overtime, or shift work

Travel Requirements

• Travel required: Approximately 15–20% between job sites or company facilities, depending on project assignments

Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO)

Knobelsdorff (KE) is an EEO to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, citizenship, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:

• EEO is the Law (English/Spanish)

KE participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. For more information about E-Verify, please review the E-Verify Participation and Right to Work posters

If you need accommodation during the hiring process, let us know and we’ll work with you.