Operational Excellence Manager

Quest Defense

. Lead and maintain the company’s Quality Management System (QMS) to meet AS9100, customer, and internal requirements .

Posted 11/4/2026full-timeRemote • Ohio • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $110,000 - $144,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in leading Quality Management Systems (QMS) to meet AS9100 standards, facilitating cross-functional process improvements, and utilizing LEAN methodologies for operational excellence. Proficient in quality audits, root cause analysis, and developing performance metrics to drive continuous improvement.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Quality Management System (QMS)LEAN MethodologiesAS9100 CertificationRoot Cause AnalysisCross-Functional Process Improvement

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Quality AuditsProcess MappingValue Stream MappingSix SigmaStandard Work PracticesPerformance MetricsContinuous ImprovementWaste ReductionProblem-Solving MethodsDocumentation Management

Soft Skills

Excellent CommunicationAnalytical SkillsFacilitation SkillsStrategic ThinkingHands-On Execution

Tools & Technologies

BI/DataOps ToolsSOPICSwim LanesRASCI

Certifications & Qualifications

LEAN CertificationSix Sigma CertificationAS9100 Training

Industry Keywords

Operational ExcellenceQuality LeadershipExport-Controlled InformationKaizen EventsProcess Improvement Projects

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead and maintain the company’s Quality Management System (QMS) to meet AS9100, customer, and internal requirements
Manage the internal audit program and lead preparation for external AS9100 audits and certification reviews
Maintain quality processes, documentation, and training across the organization
Lead quality issue resolution using root cause analysis and corrective actions
Lead LEAN and continuous improvement efforts, including Kaizen events, waste reduction, and process improvement projects
Develop and improve standard work practices, workflows, and tools
Map and review business processes to identify delays, gaps, and improvement opportunities
Work with leaders and cross-functional teams to implement, document, and sustain process improvements
Provide training on quality standards, LEAN practices, problem-solving methods, and audit readiness
Develop and track quality and process performance measures, dashboards, and KPIs with the BI/DataOps team
Review audit results, quality trends, and performance data to measure results and identify further improvement opportunities

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business, operations, or a related field or equivalent experience
5–10 years of experience as an operational excellence manager or in a similar operational excellence or quality leadership role
Eligibility to access and review export-controlled information under applicable laws and regulations
Formal training in LEAN, Six Sigma, Quality Management, or AS9100
Experience leading cross-functional process improvement initiatives
Strong facilitation skills for workshops, audits, and process mapping sessions
Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution
Experience with lean methodologies, including Kaizen events, waste reduction, and continuous improvement cycles
Experience with value stream mapping, standard work, visual management, and cycle time analysis
Experience facilitating process mapping using SOPIC, swim lanes, or RASCI
Experience leading quality management initiatives
Experience conducting quality audits and reviewing project records, documentation, and technical data, including EAR- and ITAR-controlled materials

Benefits

Comp & perks

Competitive compensation
Employer-matched 401(k)
Certification assistance
Clear opportunities for advancement
Flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment
Comprehensive medical, dental, life, and disability coverage
Professional development support
Flexible, friendly workplace
Work on safety- and mission-critical projects with real-world impact