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If you’ve ever searched for an “Operational Excellence Manager job description”, chances are you’ve seen dozens of articles online. The problem? Most of them look and feel the same—generic bullet points, copy-paste responsibilities, and wording so dry it could have been written by a robot.
But here’s the truth: a job description isn’t just a checklist of duties. It’s the first impression top talent gets of your company. Done poorly, it turns away the very people you want to hire. Done right, it excites high-performers, connects them to your mission, and gets them to apply.
That’s exactly what we’ll cover in this article: how to write a compelling Operational Excellence Manager job description that actually attracts great candidates—without falling into the trap of sounding like every other bland template online.
👉 Before we dive in, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ . It’s a complete breakdown of why generic job posts fail—and the proven structure you should use instead. This article builds on that foundation and tailors it specifically for the Operational Excellence Manager role.
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What an Operational Excellence Manager Actually Does
An Operational Excellence Manager isn’t just about “managing processes” or “driving efficiencies” — though you’ll see those phrases in almost every generic job description online. In reality, this role is about helping a company work smarter, not harder.
At its core, an Operational Excellence Manager looks at how teams, systems, and workflows operate today and finds ways to make them better tomorrow. That means:
- Spotting inefficiencies that slow down progress or waste resources
- Leading cross-functional initiatives that align operations with business goals
- Driving continuous improvement through frameworks like Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen
- Measuring impact with data-driven KPIs and ensuring results actually stick
In simpler terms: they’re the bridge between strategy and execution. They make sure ambitious company goals don’t just live in a presentation deck — they translate into day-to-day actions, systems, and habits that help teams deliver faster, cleaner, and at a higher standard.
And here’s something many leaders overlook: this role isn’t just about process—it’s about people. An effective Operational Excellence Manager doesn’t just introduce tools or policies; they influence culture, coach teams on better ways of working, and make continuous improvement feel like a shared mission rather than a top-down directive.
Two Great Operational Excellence Manager Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Example 1: Experienced Operational Excellence Manager
📌 Job Title: Operational Excellence Manager – Atlas Manufacturing (Chicago, IL)
💼 Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (3 days onsite, 2 remote)
💰 Salary: $95,000–$120,000 per year + performance bonus
🕒 Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9AM–5PM
🎥 Meet the Team: [Insert Loom/YouTube Link] — Hear from our COO, Sarah Mitchell, about how this role drives impact across Atlas Manufacturing.
Who We Are
Atlas Manufacturing designs and builds industrial equipment that keeps critical infrastructure running worldwide. With over 40 years in the industry, we’re proud to combine craftsmanship, innovation, and continuous improvement to deliver products that last. Our 400-person team thrives on curiosity, precision, and the drive to solve complex problems.
Our Company Culture
We believe in progress without burnout. At Atlas, continuous improvement is everyone’s job—not just a buzzword. We celebrate small wins, learn from failures, and empower every team member to suggest changes. You’ll be joining a culture where efficiency isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about working smarter together.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead cross-functional projects to streamline processes and reduce waste
- Partner with department heads to roll out Lean and Six Sigma initiatives
- Develop performance metrics and track operational KPIs across teams
- Facilitate workshops to coach teams on process excellence and problem-solving
- Drive a culture of continuous improvement by recognizing and rewarding innovative ideas
What We’re Looking For
- 5+ years of experience in process improvement, operations, or project management
- Proven track record with Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies (Black/Green Belt a plus)
- Strong analytical skills and ability to turn data into actionable insights
- Excellent communication and facilitation skills—you inspire teams to adopt change
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred)
Why Join Us
At Atlas, you won’t be “fixing processes in isolation.” You’ll be the strategic partner driving transformation across departments. This role offers direct visibility with senior leadership, growth pathways into operations leadership, and the ability to make measurable, lasting impact.
Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance, 401(k) match, annual performance bonus, 20 PTO days, paid training for certifications.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make our hiring process fair, efficient, and skill-based. Apply here: [WorkScreen Application Link] and complete a short evaluation that helps us understand your strengths. We review every application carefully and respond within two weeks.
✅ Example 2: Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Operational Excellence Associate
📌 Job Title: Operational Excellence Associate – Atlas Manufacturing (Chicago, IL)
💼 Type: Full-Time | In-Person
💰 Salary: $65,000–$75,000 per year + training budget
🕒 Schedule: Monday–Friday, 9AM–5PM
🎥 Meet the Team: [Insert Loom/YouTube Link] — Watch a quick intro from Emily, one of our Process Analysts, about what it’s like to start your career in operational excellence at Atlas.
Who We Are
Atlas Manufacturing builds the equipment that powers critical industries—from energy to transportation. Our operations are growing fast, and we’re committed to scaling without losing efficiency or quality. That’s why we’re building our Operational Excellence team—and we’re open to training people who bring curiosity, drive, and a passion for improvement.
Our Company Culture
We know that fresh eyes often spot opportunities veterans miss. That’s why we hire for potential, not just experience. If you’re the type of person who loves solving puzzles, organizing chaos, and asking “why do we do it this way?”, you’ll thrive here.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Support senior team members in identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies
- Assist with data collection and basic analysis of process performance
- Shadow workshops and gradually facilitate small group improvements
- Document new processes and help teams adopt changes smoothly
- Learn Lean and Six Sigma methodologies through hands-on projects
What We’re Looking For
- No prior experience required—training will be provided
- Bachelor’s degree (any discipline) or equivalent experience
- Curiosity, problem-solving mindset, and strong organizational skills
- Ability to collaborate with multiple teams and communicate clearly
- Bonus if you’ve done coursework in operations, analytics, or engineering
Why Join Us
You’ll be starting your career in a field that combines business, strategy, and problem-solving. We’ll pay for your Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification, provide mentorship from experienced managers, and give you opportunities to lead projects as you grow.
Benefits: Health and dental insurance, 401(k) match, PTO, mentorship program, certification budget.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on potential, not just resumes. Apply here: [WorkScreen Application Link] and complete an engaging evaluation. We’ll respond to every application within two weeks.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Why These Operational Excellence Manager Job Posts Work
So what makes the two templates above better than the generic, cookie-cutter posts you’ll find elsewhere? Let’s break it down.
1. The Job Titles Are Clear and Specific
- Instead of just saying “Operational Excellence Manager”, the experienced role includes the company name and location: “Operational Excellence Manager – Atlas Manufacturing (Chicago, IL)”.
- This signals credibility and context, helping candidates instantly picture where and how they’d fit in.
- For the entry-level role, using “Operational Excellence Associate” makes it accessible and appealing to candidates who may not have prior experience.
2. Warm Intros Provide Context and Mission
- Both posts start by introducing who the company is and why the role exists.
- The experienced version frames the role as a bridge between teams and leadership.
- The entry-level version highlights curiosity and potential, showing that the company is open to training passionate people.
- This makes candidates feel part of a story, not just a list of tasks.
3. Transparency Builds Trust
- Both templates include salary ranges, work type (hybrid or in-person), and schedules.
- Compensation clarity eliminates guesswork and attracts serious applicants.
- Highlighting benefits (insurance, PTO, 401k, certification budget) positions Atlas as a modern employer that values its people.
4. Culture Is Shown, Not Claimed
- The experienced version emphasizes a culture of progress without burnout—a powerful promise in operations roles.
- The entry-level version reframes inexperience as an asset, showing that fresh ideas are welcomed.
- Instead of vague claims (“We value collaboration”), both versions demonstrate culture with real language candidates can connect with.
5. Responsibilities Are Impact-Oriented
- Instead of dumping a list of generic tasks, each responsibility ties back to impact:
- “Lead cross-functional projects to streamline processes” → shows scope and influence.
- “Support senior team members… shadow workshops” → shows how a new hire will learn and grow.
- “Lead cross-functional projects to streamline processes” → shows scope and influence.
- This makes the job feel purposeful rather than transactional.
6. Application Process Feels Respectful
- Both templates explain what happens after applying: WorkScreen evaluation, reviewed applications, and guaranteed response within two weeks.
- Contrast that with the cold, outdated “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.” Respecting candidates’ time sets Atlas apart.
7. Personal Touch With Video
- A Loom/YouTube link to the team or hiring manager adds authenticity.
- Candidates get to see the faces behind the company, making the post more relatable and trustworthy.
8. Strong “Why Join Us” Pitch
- The experienced version highlights strategic visibility and leadership growth.
- The entry-level version promises mentorship, certifications, and hands-on training.
Both focus on what candidates gain—not just what the company demands.
Example of a Bad Operational Excellence Manager Job Description (And Why It Fails)
📌 Job Title: Operational Excellence Manager
🏢 Company: Confidential
💼 Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are seeking to hire an Operational Excellence Manager responsible for overseeing process improvement initiatives across the organization. The successful candidate will coordinate with stakeholders, ensure compliance with internal standards, and report on key performance indicators.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage day-to-day process improvement activities
- Implement operational strategies
- Oversee compliance with company policies
- Generate reports for senior management
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations, or related field
- 5–7 years of experience in operations or process improvement
- Knowledge of Lean or Six Sigma preferred
- Strong analytical and organizational skills
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their resume and cover letter to hr@confidential.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
- The Job Title Is Too Generic
Just “Operational Excellence Manager.” No context, no company name, no location. It looks like a template, not a real opportunity. - The Introduction Is Cold and Forgettable
The “summary” is a jargon dump: overseeing process improvement initiatives, compliance, reporting. There’s no mission, no reason why this role matters, and nothing that helps a candidate feel inspired. - No Transparency on Pay or Benefits
Not mentioning salary, perks, or even the work arrangement (remote, hybrid, in-office) makes this feel outdated—and can drive top candidates away. - Culture Is Missing Entirely
There’s no hint of what it’s like to actually work at the company. Are they innovative? Collaborative? Burnout-prone? Candidates have no idea. - Responsibilities Are Vague and Transactional
“Manage day-to-day process improvement” and “generate reports” don’t tell the candidate what impact they’ll have or why it matters. It feels like busywork. - Dismissive Hiring Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is one of the most frustrating lines in job posts. It signals that the company doesn’t value applicants’ time or effort.
Zero Personality in the CTA
“Send your resume to hr@confidential.com” is as cold as it gets. No enthusiasm, no encouragement, no personal touch.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Operational Excellence Manager Job Post Stand Out
Even with a strong structure, the little details are what separate a good job description from a great one. Here are some advanced touches you can add to make your post resonate with high-quality candidates:
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Show candidates you care about their safety from the start. A simple line like this builds instant trust:
“We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.”
2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Work-life balance matters, especially in roles that focus on efficiency. Including this shows you practice what you preach:
“Enjoy 20 PTO days per year, plus 2 flex days each quarter to recharge and return refreshed.”
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Since Operational Excellence is a discipline that thrives on learning, call out the opportunities to upskill:
“We invest in your growth. You’ll have a dedicated training budget to pursue Lean Six Sigma certifications, attend industry workshops, and grow into leadership roles.”
4. Use a Loom/YouTube Video for Authenticity
Hearing directly from the hiring manager or COO gives the post a human voice:
🎥 “Watch this quick video from our COO, Sarah Mitchell, on why Operational Excellence is core to our strategy.”
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Share Employee Testimonials or Reviews
Link to a real Glassdoor review, or quote a current employee:
“What I love most about Atlas is that everyone’s ideas matter. Even as an analyst, I got to lead a process improvement project that saved us thousands.” – Emily, Process Analyst
6. Make the CTA Encouraging, Not Transactional
Instead of the cold “Send resume to HR,” inspire them to take the next step:
“We’d love to learn about your perspective on process improvement. Apply through WorkScreen and show us your strengths—we promise to get back to every applicant.”
Should You Use AI to Write an Operational Excellence Manager Job Description?
With so many AI tools available, it’s tempting to just type: “Write me an Operational Excellence Manager job description” and paste whatever comes out. But here’s the catch—using AI blindly will almost always give you a generic, lifeless post that blends in with the hundreds of others online.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
- It produces filler content. AI without context churns out the same vague buzzwords: “Oversee process improvement,” “Ensure compliance,” “Implement strategies.” Sound familiar? That’s because those lines already exist in a thousand other JDs.
- It attracts the wrong candidates. A bland post gets you resumes from people who are just mass-applying—not the sharp, strategic thinkers you want in this role.
- It hurts your brand. A job post is often the first impression someone gets of your company. Why risk sounding like you phoned it in?
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI
AI can be powerful—but only if you feed it the right ingredients. Instead of letting it do all the work, guide it with your company’s unique details.
Here’s how to prompt it effectively:
Bad Prompt:
“Write me a job description for an Operational Excellence Manager.”
Better Prompt:
“Help me write a job description for our company, Atlas Manufacturing. We’re hiring an Operational Excellence Manager to help us [Insert Key Responsibilities, e.g., streamline processes, drive Lean initiatives, measure KPIs]. Our culture is [Describe Your Culture, e.g., progress without burnout, continuous improvement as a shared mission]. We want to attract candidates who are [Ideal Traits, e.g., analytical, collaborative, change champions]. We offer [Insert Benefits, e.g., PTO, certification budget, flexible work]. Our hiring process [Explain, e.g., skill-based through WorkScreen with guaranteed feedback]. Please structure it like a compelling job post, not a generic template. Here are the additional notes I’ve written [paste notes]”
By doing this, AI becomes a polishing tool, not a replacement for your input. It helps refine tone, improve clarity, and organize structure—but the heart of the post comes from your company’s voice, culture, and mission.
👉 Bottom line: Don’t let AI strip your job descriptions of personality. Use it as an assistant, not an author.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Need Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Templates
We get it—sometimes you just need a solid starting point. Maybe you’ve already read this guide and understand what makes a job post effective, but you also want something you can copy, paste, and tailor quickly.
That’s what this section is for.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: Operational Excellence Manager – [Your Company Name] ([Location])
💼 Type: Full-Time | [Onsite / Hybrid / Remote]
💰 Salary: [Insert Range Here]
🎥 Meet the Team: [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
Who We Are
At [Company Name], we believe operational excellence isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about empowering people to do their best work without unnecessary roadblocks. We’re a [Brief Description of Your Company, e.g., mid-sized tech firm, global logistics provider, etc.] with a mission to [Insert Your Mission].
Our Culture
Progress without burnout. Collaboration without silos. Innovation without bureaucracy. That’s the environment we’ve built—and this role will help us protect and scale it.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead process improvement initiatives across multiple teams
- Partner with leadership to align operations with business strategy
- Drive Lean/Six Sigma projects that reduce waste and improve output
- Coach teams on continuous improvement frameworks
- Develop metrics to measure success and ensure accountability
What We’re Looking For
- [X]+ years of experience in operations, continuous improvement, or project management
- Hands-on knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or similar frameworks
- Strong communication and facilitation skills
- Ability to analyze data and turn insights into action
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations, or related field
Why Join Us
You won’t just be managing checklists—you’ll be shaping how our company works and grows. Expect leadership visibility, growth opportunities, and the chance to create lasting impact across the business.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make our process skill-based and fair. Apply here: [WorkScreen Application Link] and complete a quick evaluation. We review every application and respond to all candidates within two weeks.
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Details + Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
Job Details
- 📌 Job Title: Operational Excellence Manager
- 🏢 Company: [Your Company Name]
- 📍 Location: [City, State / Remote / Hybrid]
- 💼 Type: Full-Time | [Onsite / Hybrid / Remote]
- 💰 Salary: [Insert Salary Range]
- 🕒 Schedule: Monday–Friday, standard business hours
Job Brief
We’re looking for an Operational Excellence Manager to lead process improvement and continuous improvement initiatives across [Company Name]. You’ll identify inefficiencies, drive Lean/Six Sigma projects, and ensure measurable results that support our company’s growth.
Responsibilities
- Identify, design, and lead operational improvement projects
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline processes
- Track KPIs and report progress to senior leadership
- Facilitate workshops and training on continuous improvement practices
- Ensure compliance with industry standards and internal policies
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field
- [X]+ years of experience in operations or process improvement
- Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt certification preferred
- Strong data analysis and reporting skills
- Excellent communication and change management abilities
Benefits
- Competitive salary + performance bonus
- Health, dental, and vision coverage
- PTO + flexible work arrangements
- Training and certification budget
- Growth opportunities into operations leadership
How to Apply
Apply directly via WorkScreen: [WorkScreen Application Link]. Complete our quick evaluation, and we’ll get back to you within two weeks.
What Happens After You Write a Job Post? That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in
Crafting a compelling job description is only half the battle. Once your post goes live, you’ll likely get dozens—or even hundreds—of applications. The real challenge is figuring out who actually has the skills and drive to succeed in the role.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
Here’s How WorkScreen Helps You Hire Smarter
✅ Quickly Identify Top Talent
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Assess Real-World Ability, Not Just Resumes
WorkScreen lets you run one-click skill tests that reflect the actual skills required for success. For an Operational Excellence Manager, that could mean problem-solving exercises, data interpretation tasks, or situational judgment tests.
✅ Filter Out Low-Effort Applicants
WorkScreen eliminates low-effort applicants—including those who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
Why This Matters
Hiring an Operational Excellence Manager isn’t about finding someone who looks good on paper—it’s about finding someone who can lead change, solve problems, and inspire teams. With WorkScreen, you get the clarity you need to hire with confidence.
👉 After you create your job post, let WorkScreen take over. You’ll save time, improve candidate quality, and make better, data-driven hiring decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions - Operational Excellence Manager Job Description
The average salary for an Operational Excellence Manager in the U.S. typically ranges from $90,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on industry, company size, and location. In larger corporations or highly regulated industries (like healthcare, finance, or manufacturing), salaries can reach $130,000+, while mid-sized companies may start closer to $80,000–$95,000. Bonus structures and performance incentives are also common in this role.
In most organizations, this role reports directly to the Director of Operations, VP of Operations, or Chief Operating Officer (COO). In larger enterprises, they may also work closely with Program Management Offices (PMOs) or Transformation Leaders.
Key skills include:
- Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement frameworks
- Analytical skills for interpreting performance data and KPIs
- Change management and the ability to influence cross-functional teams
- Communication and facilitation skills to align leadership and frontline staff
- Strategic thinking to ensure improvements tie back to business outcomes
While not always mandatory, certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt are highly valued. They demonstrate a proven ability to manage process improvement projects. Employers often sponsor training if candidates show strong aptitude and leadership potential.
Both. While process frameworks are critical, success in this role often depends on the ability to influence culture and lead people through change. The best Operational Excellence Managers combine technical know-how with strong interpersonal and coaching skills.
