Plant OPEX Leader: Lean Process & Data-Driven Improvement

Wanzl GmbH; Charlotte (NC); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

WNA in the Charlotte, NC area seeks an Operational Excellence Manager to lead plant-level OPEX programs, translate strategy into action, and drive continuous improvement and data auditing to ensure accuracy and compliance.

You will lead Lean and Six Sigma projects, monitor KPIs, mentor supervisors and operators, and collaborate across Production, Materials and Quality to raise performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial or Mechanical Engineering (MBA preferred).
• Lean Manufacturing expert with proficiency in VSM and process optimization.
• Strong problem-solving skills with structured methodologies.
• Minimum 3 years in manufacturing ops, CPEx or OPEX roles.
• Strong data analysis using Excel and Power BI.
• Knowledge of SQMDC KPIs.
• Excellent project management with cross-functional leadership.
• Outstanding communication and change-management abilities.
• Ability to mentor and coach teams and manage multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

• Deploy and sustain OPEX programs at the plant level.
• Lead Lean and Six Sigma projects to reduce waste, optimize processes, and improve KPIs.
• Facilitate structured problem-solving sessions (PDCA, 5-Why, Fishbone).
• Monitor KPIs and ensure accurate reporting of production and quality data.
• Audit data integrity across MES, ERP, and quality systems.
• Support digitalization of dashboards and reporting tools (Power BI, Excel).
• Plan, execute, and monitor improvement projects within scope, time, and budget.
• Deliver OPEX training and drive cultural change.
• Coordinate with Production, Materials, and Quality teams.

Skills

Lean Manufacturing

VSM

Problem Solving

Data Analysis (Excel)

Power BI

KPI knowledge (SQMDC)

Cross-functional collaboration

Project Management

Mentoring & Coaching

Change Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial/Mechanical Engineering

MBA (preferred)

Tools

Six Sigma

Job description

WNA in the Charlotte, NC area seeks an Operational Excellence Manager to lead plant-level OPEX programs, translate strategy into action, and drive continuous improvement and data auditing to ensure accuracy and compliance.

You will lead Lean and Six Sigma projects, monitor KPIs, mentor supervisors and operators, and collaborate across Production, Materials and Quality to raise performance.