Director of Operational Excellence & Lean Transformation

BioSpace; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 146,000 - 194,000; Full time

Job summary

GRAIL seeks an Associate Director, Operational Excellence to lead data-driven improvement across laboratory and operations in Durham, NC. The role emphasizes real-time dashboards, SPC/QC insights, and Lean methodologies in a regulated setting.

You will partner with Engineering, Lab, and Software teams to scale Kaizen programs, implement 5S, and measure sustained impact, while ensuring compliance with CLIA, CAP, and FDA standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor\u2019s degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Operations, Data Science, or related field (advanced degree preferred).
• 12+ years of experience in operational excellence, process improvement, or analytics, ideally in biotech, diagnostics, or regulated environments.
• Demonstrated expertise in Lean, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt preferred), and Kaizen methodologies.
• Strong experience with data visualization tools (Tableau, Power BI, Looker) and data analysis (SQL, Python, R).
• Experience with SPC/QC frameworks and cross-functional initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain operational dashboards and data visualizations for real-time performance visibility.
• Generate KPI reports; ensure clarity, accuracy, and alignment with goals.
• Define metrics with stakeholders and continuously improve reporting frameworks.
• Lead Lean initiatives (5S, Six Sigma, Kaizen) across teams and drive a culture of continuous improvement.
• Synthesize inputs across teams into a backlog; prioritize and align on improvement efforts.

Skills

Lean methodologies

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Data visualization

Tableau

Power BI

Looker

SQL

Python

Cross-functional leadership

Education

Bachelor\u2019s degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Operations, Data Science, or related field

Tools

Tableau

Power BI

Looker

SQL

Python

Job description

GRAIL seeks an Associate Director, Operational Excellence to lead data-driven improvement across laboratory and operations in Durham, NC. The role emphasizes real-time dashboards, SPC/QC insights, and Lean methodologies in a regulated setting.

You will partner with Engineering, Lab, and Software teams to scale Kaizen programs, implement 5S, and measure sustained impact, while ensuring compliance with CLIA, CAP, and FDA standards.