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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 ...

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

See salary details

$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.

Operational Quality Continuous Improvement Engineer

Sportsman Boats Mfg.

Summerville, SC โ€ข On-site

$70K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Sportsman Boats is looking for a Continuous Improvement Engineer who will execute CI (Continuous Improvement) activities and events at the production level. This person will work alongside the CI team and is responsible for improving the outcomes of manufacturing and operational processes, efficiency, reducing cost, and increasing yield.
What you will do:
Continuous Improvement
  • Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives throughout manufacturing operations
  • Facilitate root cause analysis and corrective action activities for recurring production issues
  • Support waste reduction, process flow improvements, and labor efficiency initiatives
  • Assist with implementation and sustainment of 5S and visual management activities
  • Support value stream improvement efforts and operational process optimization
  • Develop and improve standardized work instructions and process documentation
  • Track and report KPI performance trends related to quality and operational performance
  • Participate in kaizen events and operational improvement workshops

Plant Quality
  • Support daily manufacturing quality activities across production areas
  • Investigate internal defects and recurring production quality concerns
  • Analyze defect trends and recommend corrective actions
  • Support containment activities and verification of corrective action effectiveness
  • Conduct process audits and layered process verification activities
  • Work closely with production leadership to improve process consistency and accountability
  • Assist with implementation of quality systems and process controls
  • Support warranty reduction initiatives through proactive process improvements

Supplier Quality
  • Work directly with suppliers to address quality concerns and recurring defects
  • Support supplier corrective action requests (SCARs) and follow-up activities
  • Assist with supplier audits and performance evaluations
  • Coordinate containment activities for supplier-related issues
  • Help improve incoming material quality and supplier accountability
  • Track supplier quality metrics and communicate performance trends

To be considered you must have:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Industrial Technology, or related field preferred
  • 3+ years of experience in manufacturing, quality, or continuous improvement environments
  • Experience with root cause analysis methodologies and corrective action systems
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and operational workflows
  • Experience working directly within a production environment
  • Ability to interpret data and identify process improvement opportunities
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel and standard reporting tools
Preferred Education and Experience
  • Hands-on problem-solving mentality
  • Ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority
  • Strong floor presence and engagement with production teams
  • Self-motivated with strong follow-through
  • Comfortable balancing multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Strong attention to detail with focus on execution and accountability
Core Competencies
  • Gemba-oriented approach
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Lean tool proficiency
  • Team collaboration and influence
  • Accountability and ownership

Why should you consider joining the Sportsman team?
  • We promote from within on a regular and consistent basis
  • Every employee is offered lean manufacturing and 5s training
  • Our employees are treated with respect
  • We offer quarterly production bonuses
  • You will learn from the best in the industry
  • Great benefits including 10 days paid time off, 10 days shutdown pay, insurance, 401k, and more!

Sportsman Boats is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.
Apply online or come by our plant at 113 Sportsman Way, Summerville, SC 29483.