Operational Excellence Director, Manufacturing Systems at Wayne Wire Cloth

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionOperational Excellence Director, Manufacturing SystemsJoin Wayne Wire in Northwest Michigan and champion an enterprise approach to continuous improvement across multiple facilities. You’ll set direction, enable teams, and install durable systems that lift quality, reduce cost, and accelerate delivery for our global filtration business.Role focusLead and facilitate hands‑on CI initiatives that remove waste and reduce process variability.Analyze current global manufacturing processes and implement standardized, scalable practices.Establish best practices, enable knowledge sharing, and solicit input across Manufacturing.Identify and resolve productivity barriers tied to quality, cost, timing, and environmental considerations.Validate productivity improvements through data and on‑floor observation.Partner with Purchasing on sourcing strategy decisions that support performance and stability.Investigate quality issues to root cause; implement preventative solutions and poka‑yoke fixtures.Document tangible gains in efficiency, Takt time, floor space utilization, and overhead reduction.Assess equipment and workflows; recommend changes that enhance ergonomics and operator performance.Lead work transfer projects to balance capacity and delight customers; coordinate resources outside direct reporting lines.About Wayne WireWe’ve been growing for over 80 years. Wayne Wire designs and manufactures custom filtration products serving aerospace, automotive, commercial, medical, refrigeration, marine, and other industries worldwide.What you bringBachelor’s degree.Demonstrated strength in data analysis, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis.Expertise in continuous improvement, Lean principles, Six Sigma, Process Engineering, APQP, Quality Control, and ISO 9001.AS9100 Experience and National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP) exposure are a plus.Ability to write manufacturing control plans; strong knowledge of manufacturing methods and procedures.Manufacturing experience; metals and wire mesh processes are a plus.Meticulous attention to detail; organized, thorough, and effective at prioritization and multitasking.Exceptional communicator who collaborates across functions to generate ideas and drive change.Proven ability to analyze complex processes and design creative, logical, and effective solutions; systematic in approach.Functional and technical skills to influence without authority.ToolsERP SoftwareLife and benefitsNorthern Michigan offers an exceptional quality of life and year‑round recreation. We support you with:Medical Insurance PPO (BCBS), Dental, Vision (VSP)Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA)Company‑paid Short‑Term and Long‑Term DisabilityCompany‑paid Life Insurance401(k) with company match and a discretionary profit sharing planPaid holidays, paid vacation, tuition reimbursementCompensationCompensation based on Education and Experience.