Operational Excellence Engineer-(OpEx)

ZRG Careers; Muskogee (OK); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage

401(k): Company match of 4.5%

Paid Holidays and Vacation Time

Performance-Based Bonus Program

Job summary

ZRG Careers is looking for an Operational Excellence Engineer to enhance performance through continuous improvement initiatives. The role includes responsibility for deploying the DRIVE+ Management System and leading projects that advance business indicators.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and over 5 years of experience in lean manufacturing. Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite are essential.

Benefits include comprehensive medical coverage, 401(k) matching, and tuition reimbursement.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in Continuous Improvement or Lean Manufacturing.
• Strong background in engineering or operations leadership.
• Demonstrated experience implementing Six Sigma methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and own elements of the DRIVE+ Management System.
• Identify and execute projects improving key performance indicators.
• Lead training initiatives related to Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Problem-solving

Process Flow Analysis

Team Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

We are seeking individuals whose passion and dedication match the strength and resilience of the products we deliver. The Operational Excellence (OpEx) Engineer will be a highly qualified continuous improvement professional with deep experience in achieving transformative results and working within a management system environment. The role is responsible for facilitating and deploying the DRIVE+ (OpEx Management System).

The primary focus is on defining regional strategy regarding the deployment of corporate initiatives related to lean management and advancing the maturity of the DRIVE+ Management System. This position will provide leadership to assist operating and maintenance leaders in identifying, prioritizing, and implementing projects, routines, and system elements that improve key business indicators.

The OpEx Engineer will provide expertise and support in monitoring, facilitating, leading, and training team members to work effectively within the system, including but not limited to methods such as 5S, TPM, standardization, workflow analysis, value stream mapping, maintenance excellence, and Six Sigma. This role will track overall improvement progress and report as necessary to local and executive management.

Your Role at a Glance

• Develop, continuously improve, and own assigned elements of the DRIVE+ Management System, ensuring compliance through training, follow-up, and auditing.
• Identify, prioritize, and execute projects that improve key performance indicators within assigned areas.
• Lead and/or facilitate continuous improvement efforts across safety, quality, operational excellence, cost, and people.
• Help identify key performance indicators and develop tools to improve them (flow complexity, purchasing methods, value analysis, etc.), ensuring effective use through audits.
• Partner with finance teams to validate project justification and outcomes.
• Develop and maintain detailed process and value stream maps for key manufacturing and business processes.
• Drive daily management methods by integrating improvement routines into operational meetings (daily, weekly, monthly).
• Support CI professionals across the facility in deploying appropriate metrics and management routines aligned with the DRIVE+ system.
• Ensure sustainability of improvement results through coaching and performance tracking.
• Coach, mentor, and develop site resources to strengthen adoption of the management system.
• Coordinate and report improvement and cost‑saving efforts to executive leadership.
• Support strategic planning and lead high‑impact improvement projects.
• Foster a culture of problem‑solving and continuous improvement across sites.
• Lead training initiatives related to Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
• Support cross‑site and cross‑functional process improvements.
• Lead benchmarking efforts and share best practices across the organization.
• Follow all company policies, including Safety and Quality.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

What Sets You Apart

We’re looking for individuals who bring the right mix of experience, mindset, and motivation:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (mechanical, electrical, or automation preferred); business degrees will be considered.
• 5+ years of experience in Continuous Improvement or Lean Manufacturing within an industrial setting.
• Strong background in engineering or operations leadership with a solid understanding of process flow, waste identification, and lean manufacturing principles.
• Demonstrated experience implementing Six Sigma or Toyota Production System (TPS) methodologies.
• Prior experience working on the shop floor.
• Experience in operations leadership or process engineering with a strong understanding of broader business strategy.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate cross‑functional continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage complex projects.
• Ability to communicate progress clearly and concisely.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with shop floor personnel.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio).
• Ability to travel as needed.

What Powers Your Performance

Success in this role is driven by ownership, collaboration, and a continuous improvement mindset. Strong candidates will:

• Communicate clearly and constructively
• Collaborate effectively and contribute to team success
• Adapt to change with a proactive mindset
• Take accountability and initiative
• Demonstrate reliability and pride in performance
• Prioritize safety and act with awareness
• Embrace feedback and continuous learning
• Maintain strong attention to detail
• Drive continuous improvement and challenge the status quo
• Support and develop others

How We Support Your Success

We are committed to helping you thrive—on the job and beyond. We offer a collaborative culture where your ideas drive real impact, along with opportunities for career growth within a stable industry.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
• Company-Paid Life Insurance & Short/Long-Term Disability
• Profit Sharing: Up to 4%
• 401(k): Company match of 4.5% with no vesting period
• Paid Parental Leave (including adoption support)
• Paid Holidays and Vacation Time
• Performance-Based Bonus Program
• Tuition Reimbursement

Safety isn’t negotiable—it’s part of our culture. Every decision is guided by a commitment to protecting our people through clear expectations, continuous training, and shared accountability.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.