Operational Excellence Engineer — Lean Biotech & Data

GRAIL; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 69,000 - 93,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible time-off

401(k) retirement plan with employer  

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Mindfulness programs

Job summary

GRAIL is seeking an Engineer, Operational Excellence to drive data-driven process improvements across sequencing-based cancer screening operations. The role integrates data, process, and operations to boost efficiency, quality, and scalability in laboratory workflows.

Ideal candidates are detail-oriented, data-savvy, and experienced in Lean methodologies, with a passion for solving complex operational problems through structured analysis and experimentation. On-site at our Durham, NC office.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in process engineering, operations, or continuous improvement roles, ideally in biotech, diagnostics, or manufacturing.
• Working knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies (certification a plus).
• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Excel, SQL, Python, Tableau, Power BI).
• Familiarity with SPC/QC tools and statistical analysis techniques.
• Strong problem-solving skills with attention to detail and data accuracy.
• Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate across teams.

Responsibilities

• Operational Data & Reporting: Support KPI reporting, ensure data integrity and usability.
• Process Analysis & Monitoring: Data exploration, identify trends and deviations; apply SPC and QC methods.
• Continuous Improvement Execution: Lead Lean initiatives (5S, Kaizen, Six Sigma) and scale improvements.
• Issue Tracking & Prioritization Support: Document issues and risks; prioritize improvement efforts.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with Operations, Engineering, Software, and Product teams to implement improvements.

Skills

Lean methodologies

Six Sigma

Kaizen

Data analysis

Statistical analysis

SPC

Quality Control

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Industrial Engineering, or related field

Tools

Excel

SQL

Python

Tableau

Power BI

Job description

GRAIL is seeking an Engineer, Operational Excellence to drive data-driven process improvements across sequencing-based cancer screening operations. The role integrates data, process, and operations to boost efficiency, quality, and scalability in laboratory workflows.

Ideal candidates are detail-oriented, data-savvy, and experienced in Lean methodologies, with a passion for solving complex operational problems through structured analysis and experimentation. On-site at our Durham, NC office.