Manufacturing Continuous Improvement Manager

Operational Excellence Manager Location: Virginia Beach, VA Job Type: Direct Hire Starting Salary: $85,000/year — higher depending on experience Position Summary We are seeking an Operational Excellence Manager to improve manufacturing performance through process optimization, Lean practices, data analysis, and structured problem-solving. This position works closely with operations and production teams to reduce waste, improve productivity and quality, strengthen workflows, and establish sustainable improvements. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who can coach teams, lead improvement projects, analyze operational data, and turn identified opportunities into measurable results.

Key Responsibilities Lead continuous improvement programs aligned with business and operational goals

Partner with manufacturing and operations teams to identify productivity, process, and cost-reduction opportunities

Facilitate Kaizen events, improvement workshops, and problem-solving activities

Apply Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Root Cause Analysis , and other CI methodologies

Evaluate workflows, identify bottlenecks, and implement sustainable solutions

Work directly with production teams to introduce and maintain process improvements

Train, coach, and mentor employees on CI tools and practices

Develop communication plans that encourage participation and engagement

Establish and monitor KPIs to measure improvement results

Analyze operational data and use findings to guide decisions and action plans

Present project results, recommendations, and progress to plant and senior leadership

Improve labor efficiency through workflow optimization, process design, and capital investment opportunities

Support CI initiatives across multiple shifts as needed

Promote accountability, teamwork, innovation, safety, quality, and continuous learning

Ensure improvement activities support operational and customer requirements

Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Business Management, Manufacturing Engineering , or related field; equivalent experience considered

5+ years of experience leading or implementing continuous improvement programs in manufacturing

Experience in engineer-to-order, fabrication, industrial, or manufacturing environments preferred

Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement certification strongly preferred

Proven success delivering measurable process and operational improvements

Strong knowledge of:

Lean principles

Value stream mapping

Root cause analysis

Kaizen facilitation

Change management

Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret operational data

Strong leadership and cross-functional influence skills

Excellent presentation, communication, facilitation, and training abilities

Strong project management, organization, and time-management skills

Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office

Self-motivated problem solver who can manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Strong commitment to safety, quality, accountability, and operational excellence

Work Requirements Regularly walk and interact with teams on the manufacturing floor

Ability to stand, bend, and move throughout production areas

Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.

Willingness to support multiple shifts and work flexible hours when improvement projects require it

Comfortable working in both office and manufacturing environments