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Operational Improvement Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Continuous Improvement Engineer

Ellisville, MS ยท On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

You will partner with operational teams to identify process inefficiencies, support root cause ... Support operational improvement initiatives, training activities, and other business needs as ...

The CI Manager researches, plans, trains, executes, and facilitates operational improvement programs ie. Kaizen events, in order to create a culture of continuous improvement and lean manufacturing ...

Continuous Improvement Leader

Greer, SC ยท On-site

$95 - $130/hr

Partner with General Managers and site leadership teams to evaluate operational performance and identify continuous improvement opportunities. * Lead Lean Manufacturing initiatives focused on safety ...

Showing results 21-40

Operational Improvement information

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$45.5K

$102.9K

$150K

How much do operational improvement jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for operational improvement in the United States is $102,929.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,000.00 and $121,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Operational Improvement vs Business Analyst?

AspectOperational ImprovementBusiness Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically certifications like Lean, Six Sigma, or process improvement trainingOften degrees in business, finance, or related fields; certifications like CBAP or PMI-PBA
Work EnvironmentFocus on internal processes across various departments, often in manufacturing, logistics, or service industriesAnalyze business needs, gather requirements, and recommend solutions, usually in IT or corporate settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies aiming to optimize operations and reduce costsUsed by organizations seeking to improve business processes and systems

Operational Improvement professionals focus on streamlining processes and increasing efficiency within organizations, often utilizing methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma. Business Analysts analyze business needs, gather requirements, and recommend solutions, frequently in IT or corporate projects. While both roles aim to enhance organizational performance, Operational Improvement is more process-centric, whereas Business Analysts focus on identifying and implementing business solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in operational improvement roles, and how can they be addressed?

Operational Improvement professionals often encounter challenges such as resistance to change, limited cross-departmental communication, and data accessibility issues. Successfully overcoming these challenges involves building strong relationships with stakeholders, clearly communicating the benefits of proposed changes, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Regular collaboration with team members and leveraging data-driven insights are essential for identifying root causes and implementing sustainable solutions. Seeking feedback and celebrating small wins can also help maintain momentum and buy-in throughout the improvement process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in operational improvement, and why are they important?

To thrive in Operational Improvement, you need a strong background in process analysis, project management, and data-driven decision-making, often supported by a degree in business, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma methodologies, and tools like process mapping software or ERP systems is typically required, with certifications like Lean Six Sigma being highly valued. Strong communication, problem-solving, and change management skills help professionals effectively collaborate and drive organizational change. These skills are crucial for identifying inefficiencies, implementing sustainable solutions, and achieving measurable performance improvements.

What is operational improvement?

Operational improvement refers to the process of analyzing and enhancing organizational processes, systems, and workflows to boost efficiency, productivity, and quality. This often includes identifying inefficiencies, streamlining procedures, and implementing best practices or new technologies. The goal is to reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction, and create a culture of continuous improvement within the organization. Operational improvement can be applied across various industries and departments.
More about Operational Improvement jobs
What states have the most Operational Improvement jobs? States with the most job openings for Operational Improvement jobs include:
Infographic showing various Operational Improvement job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,929 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Continuous Improvement Engineer - Manufacturing Operations

Qualdoc

Petersburg, VA โ€ข On-site

$93K/yr

Other

Re-posted 12 hours ago


Job description

Continuous Improvement Engineer - Manufacturing Operations

Location: Petersburg, VA
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Compensation: Starting at $93,000+ annually, based on experience and qualifications

Position Summary

We are seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer to drive operational excellence initiatives within a manufacturing environment. This position plays a critical role in supporting production leadership, operational teams, and plant management by identifying opportunities for improvement, implementing sustainable solutions, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

The successful candidate will serve as a key resource for process optimization, project implementation, employee development, and business system integration while helping the organization achieve measurable performance improvements.

Key Responsibilities
Process Improvement & Performance Analysis
  • Maintain and manage project tracking systems, performance metrics, and improvement databases.
  • Analyze operational data, identify performance trends, and uncover opportunities for process optimization.
  • Participate in departmental goal setting and contribute to the achievement of operational objectives.
  • Identify recurring process issues, production inefficiencies, and sources of variation, then develop effective corrective actions.
  • Support daily improvement management activities and provide cost analysis for proposed improvement initiatives.
Training & Employee Development
  • Facilitate training programs covering continuous improvement methodologies, tools, procedures, and best practices.
  • Coach employees and leaders in the application of improvement systems and problem-solving techniques.
  • Participate in improvement events and provide guidance to teams implementing process enhancements.
  • Serve as a resource for departments seeking support with operational improvement efforts.
Project Leadership & Business System Integration
  • Collaborate with operational leaders and supervisors to ensure consistent application of business system standards and improvement processes.
  • Support initiatives involving process audits, standardization efforts, results management, failure analysis, 5S programs, Six Sigma methodologies, and continuous improvement activities.
  • Assist with the development and execution of annual improvement plans and strategic operational initiatives.
  • Prepare, review, and approve standards developed through capital projects and improvement efforts.
  • Coordinate and support capital improvement (CAPEX) projects from planning through implementation.
  • Design new systems, equipment modifications, and process enhancements to improve operational performance.
  • Assist with the implementation and maintenance of organizational support systems and escalation processes.
Safety & Operational Support
  • Support safety initiatives and participate in activities that promote a safe and productive work environment.
  • Work closely with production leadership to ensure improvement efforts align with operational goals and business objectives.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Material Science, or a related field preferred.
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
  • Experience working with production quality systems, process standardization, and continuous improvement methodologies.
  • Ability to analyze complex operational challenges and implement effective solutions.
  • Strong coaching, mentoring, and employee development skills.
  • Excellent presentation, communication, organizational, and interpersonal abilities.
  • Ability to influence change and effectively collaborate across multiple departments.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of steel manufacturing processes and equipment used in heavy industrial operations.
  • Experience in one or more of the following areas:
    • Scrap processing
    • Melting operations
    • Casting
    • Rolling
    • Maintenance operations
    • Finishing processes
    • Shipping and warehouse operations
    • Production supervision or facilitation
  • Advanced understanding of business systems and technical process improvement methodologies.
  • Experience implementing capital projects and operational improvement initiatives.
What You'll Bring
  • A passion for operational excellence and continuous improvement.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
  • The ability to act as a change agent and drive sustainable results.
  • A collaborative approach to leadership and employee engagement.
  • A commitment to safety, efficiency, and long-term organizational success.
Why Join Us?
  • Competitive compensation package.
  • Direct-hire opportunity with long-term career growth potential.
  • Opportunity to lead impactful process improvement initiatives.
  • Collaborative manufacturing environment focused on innovation and operational excellence.
  • Exposure to large-scale improvement projects and strategic business initiatives.

If you enjoy solving complex operational challenges, coaching teams, and driving measurable improvements in a manufacturing environment, we encourage you to apply.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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About Qualdoc

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2020