Operational Excellence Manager

Axiom Space; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Axiom Space in Houston, TX seeks an Operational Excellence Manager to drive lean processes and continuous improvement across functions. You will analyze workflows, monitor KPIs, and implement improvements to ensure efficient, high-quality delivery of operations.

Qualified candidates will have a 5+ year track record in operational improvement, strong analytical skills, and proficiency with data tools. This on-site role supports our mission-driven, fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field, with 5+ years of experience.
• Proven experience in operational improvement, process optimization, or quality assurance.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, or other operational excellence frameworks is a plus.
• Preferred: experience in space, aerospace, or defense industries.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools and operational management software.

Responsibilities

• Process optimization across operational workflows to improve efficiency, quality, and timeliness.
• Monitor KPIs and quality indicators; report findings to leadership.
• Identify bottlenecks, root causes, and implement actionable solutions.
• Ensure adherence to safety and quality standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align processes.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives and document results.
• Maintain accurate records of processes and improvements.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Written & verbal communication

Independent & collaborative work

Lean Six Sigma familiarity

Education

Bachelor's degree (Operations Management / Business Admin / Engineering)

Tools

Data analysis tools

Operational management software

Job description

Operational Excellence Manager### Operational Excellence ManagerApply: Houston: Full time: Posted Today: JR100879**OVERVIEW**Axiom Space is a human space exploration company, building era-defining space infrastructure and delivering technology-driven solutions that will empower civilization to transcend Earth. Beginning with Axiom Station, successor to the International Space Station, the company is pioneering a next-generation orbital settlement that will foster groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity and drive the global space economy of tomorrow. Today, guided by the vision of leading humanity's expansion off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and beyond. For more information about Axiom Space, visitwww.axiomspace.com.Axiom Space fosters a work environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a bold and dynamic **Operational Excellence Team Member** who is fueled by high accountability, execution horsepower, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and life itself, for the benefit of all on Earth and beyond.**POSITION SUMMARY**Since Axiom Space is a very complex work environment, we are looking for a resilient, high-energy Operational Excellence Team Member to support Axiom Space’s mission by ensuring the smooth, efficient, and high-quality delivery of operational processes. In this role, you will identify inefficiencies, implement improvements, and install and maintain operational standards across the business, in alignment with Axiom’s safety, quality, and performance goals. You will analyze and improve workflows, track KPIs, operational metrics, and quality indicators, and report findings to leadership. You will also partner with team members across departments to align processes, resolve issues, and drive continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, or other operational excellence methodologies. **KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES*** Process Optimization: Analyze and improve operational workflows to enhance efficiency, quality, and timeliness* Performance Monitoring: Track KPIs, operational metrics, and quality indicators; report findings to leadership* Problem Solving: Identify operational bottlenecks and root causes, and propose actionable solutions* Compliance & Standards: Ensure adherence to Axiom Space’s operational, safety, and quality standards* Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with team members across departments to align processes and resolve issues* Continuous Improvement: Implement and maintain improvement initiatives, including Lean, Six Sigma, or other operational excellence methodologies* Documentation: Maintain accurate records of processes, improvements, and operational reports* Perform additional job duties as assigned**QUALIFICATIONS:**To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.**Education & Experience*** Bachelor’s degree in Operations Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field, with 5+years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience* Proven experience in operational improvement, process optimization, or quality assurance* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills* Excellent written and verbal communication skills* Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment* Familiarity with operational excellence frameworks (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.) is a plus* Preferred: Experience in space, aerospace, or defense industries* Preferred: Proficiency with data analysis tools and operational management software* Track record of making things happen in ambiguous, fast-moving environments* Uses good judgement to problem-solve proactively, positively impacting hard challenges* Demonstrated organization skills to meet tight deadlines with high quality results**Core Skills*** Passion for space and the mission* Entrepreneurial, growth mindset* High EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally* Tech-solutioning in using systems and tools to move smarter and faster**Core Competencies:**Embody our core values of **leadership**, **innovation**, and **teamwork.** In addition, to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:* Accountability* Technical Rigor* Execution Discipline* Pride of Delivery**WORK ENVIRONMENT:**This role is based on-site in Axiom Space’s Houston, TX office and requires regular collaboration with cross-functional teams. Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task.**Requirements*** This position may require access to export controlled technical data or technology subject to NASA regulations, International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). In accordance with U.S. export control laws, final candidates may be required to undergo additional export control screening to determine eligibility for access. Meeting these requirements is a condition of employment.* Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised* Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones**Physical Requirements*** Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time)* May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time)* Equipment and Machines* Standard office equipment (PC, phone, printer, etc.)*Axiom Space is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Axiom Space does not discriminate on the basis of race, regional color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.*