Quality Operational Excellence Engineer

Vantive; Castlebar; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A vital organ therapy company is seeking an Operational Excellence Engineer to drive continuous improvement and optimize lab operations. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Science or Engineering, Lean Six Sigma certification, and at least 3–5 years of relevant experience. This role entails leading projects that enhance efficiency and compliance within a GMP-regulated environment. The company offers a stable work environment, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art technology.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

Company pension scheme

Annual bonus scheme

State-of-the-art equipment and technology

Recognition for outstanding performance

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in operational excellence or process improvement.
• Strong knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Proven leadership and ability to influence teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead continuous improvement methodologies to optimize lab operations.
• Leverage data to identify performance gaps and opportunities.
• Coach and mentor laboratory personnel on Lean principles.

Skills

Lean

Data analysis

Leadership

Collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Science, Engineering, or related field

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification

Tools

Power BI

Smartsheet

Laboratory Information Systems (LIMS)

Job description

Vantive is a vital organ therapy company on a mission to extend lives and expand possibilities for patients and care teams everywhere. For 70 years, our team has driven meaningful innovations in kidney care. As we build on our legacy, we are deepening our commitment to elevating the dialysis experience through digital solutions and advanced services, while looking beyond kidney care and investing in transforming vital organ therapies. Greater flexibility and efficiency in therapy administration for care teams, and longer, fuller lives for patients— that is what Vantive aspires to deliver.

We believe Vantive will not only build our leadership in the kidney care space, it will also offer meaningful work to those who join us. At Vantive, you will become part of a community of people who are focused, courageous and don’t settle for the mediocre. Each of us is driven to help improve patients’ lives worldwide. Join us in advancing our mission to extend lives and expand possibilities.

Operational Excellence Engineer

We are actively seeking an operational excellence engineer to drive continuous improvement initiatives and operational efficiencies across the Chemistry and Microbiology laboratories, as well as supporting other functional areas as required.

This individual will be a strong team player, a Lean Leader with a thorough understanding of laboratory workflows, compliance requirements, and the principles of Lean and Continuous Improvement. The role requires a blend of technical proficiency, analytical skills, and leadership to effectively influence lab teams, streamline testing and support processes, and ensure operational excellence within a GMP-regulated environment.

The Engineer will report directly to the Operational Excellence Manager and will work closely with laboratory leadership, QA, and cross‑functional teams to ensure optimal performance and compliance while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.

Leadership Competencies

• Ensures Accountability: Acts with a clear sense of ownership. Follows through on commitments and ensures others do the same. Takes personal responsibility for decisions, actions, and outcomes
• Drives Results: Has a strong bottom‑line orientation. Persists in accomplishing objectives despite obstacles and setbacks
• Influence and Collaboration: Has an ability to influence while fostering collaboration across laboratory and cross‑functional teams.
• Change Leadership: Leads by example in promoting a culture of continuous improvement, guiding teams through transitions with resilience and clear communication
• Efficiency and Problem Solving: Demonstrates a proven track record for efficiency in executing lab improvement projects while effectively navigating roadblocks

Key Responsibilities

• Process Improvement: Lead and implement continuous improvement methodologies to optimize lab operations, increase testing efficiency, and reduce waste
• Data Analysis: Leverage data‑driven insights to identify performance gaps, trends, and opportunities for improvement in lab processes
• Cross‑functional Collaboration: Work closely with laboratory, QA, and operations teams to implement improvement initiatives that enhance compliance and efficiency
• Training and Development: Coach and mentor laboratory personnel on Lean and continuous improvement principles to sustain a culture of excellence

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Science, Engineering, or a related field (level 7 or higher)
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in operational excellence, process improvement, or a related field, ideally within a laboratory or GMP‑regulated environment
• Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools such as Power BI, Smartsheet, or laboratory information systems (LIMS)
• Proven leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence laboratory and cross‑functional teams

What Can Vantive Offer To You

• A stable and secure work environment
• A comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance, company pension scheme, and annual bonus scheme
• A collaborative and dynamic work environment
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art equipment and technology
• Recognition and reward for outstanding performance

Reasonable Accommodation

Vantive is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities globally. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or interview process, please click on the link here and let us know the nature of your request along with your contact information. Form Link

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