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Director Operational Excellence (OPEX)

AIRBUS U.S. Space & Defense, Inc.
United States, Virginia, Arlington
1525 Wilson Boulevard (Show on map)
Jul 02, 2025

Airbus U.S. Space & Defense, Inc offers advanced solutions to meet the most complex U.S. defense, security, space, and intelligence requirements. Celebrating over 50 years in the US, we remain a trusted government partner, leveraging world-class satellite, laser communication, rotor and fixed wing solutions to help our national security, defense and space focused customers meet their missions.

Airbus U.S. looks to employ a commitment driven team, dedicated to enabling our customer's mission success. We are committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment and a welcoming and engaging staff. With competitive compensation and superior employee benefits, as well as a commitment to fostering individual career growth, Airbus U.S. is the place where top talent wants to work.

Position Summary

Director Operational Excellence will lead continuous improvement activity & strategy for the AUS enterprise, while optimizing business processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall performance. This involves identifying areas for improvement, implementing solutions, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within an organization.

Responsibilities



  • Process Analysis and Improvement:

    • Analyzing current processes, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing solutions to streamline workflows and eliminate waste.


  • Lean Methodologies:

    • Utilizing lean and Six Sigma principles (e.g., Value stream mapping) to optimize operations and improve efficiency.


  • Project Management:

    • Managing projects from start to finish, including planning, execution, and monitoring progress.


  • Data Analysis and Reporting:

    • Utilizing data to identify areas for improvement, track progress, and measure the effectiveness of implemented solutions.


  • Change Management:

    • Leading and facilitating change initiatives, working with teams to adopt new processes and technologies.


  • Training and Coaching:

    • Training employees on new processes, tools, and methodologies, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.


  • Collaboration and Communication:

    • Working effectively with cross-functional teams, communicating progress, and building consensus around improvement initiatives.


  • Performance Management:

    • Monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) and implementing strategies to improve performance.


  • Developing and Implementing Strategies:

    • Contributing to the development and implementation of operational excellence strategies that align with overall business objectives.


  • Facilitate workshops

    • Working hand - in - hand across the AUS network leading CI event with assist in the future state creation and ensure project execution


  • Ensuring Compliance:

    • Ensuring that processes and operations comply with relevant safety, quality, and regulatory standards.


  • Other duties as assigned



Qualifications

Education:



  • Bachelor's degree in business. MBA equivalent or Lean Methodology experience preferred.


Certification(s):



  • Six Sigma Green or Black Belt preferred
  • LEAN philosophy proficient


Experience:



  • Minimum of seven (7) years' experience in Operations
  • Proficiency in LEAN and Six Sigma methodologies.
  • Excellent project management and organizational skills.
  • Experience with data analysis and reporting.
  • Knowledge of relevant safety and quality standards.
  • Experience in change management.
  • Aerospace experience preferred.


Knowledge, Skills, Demonstrated Capabilities:



  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.


Technical Systems Proficiency:



  • Lean / Six Sigma tool set
  • MS Project
  • MS Office 365


Travel Required:



  • Up to 40 % travel required


Eligibility:



  • US Citizenship required



Clearance:



  • Ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance
  • Active DoD security clearance at Top Secret/ SCI desirable



Physical Requirements:



  • Carrying: able to carry documents and/or electronic equipment up to 20lbs/9kg.
  • Lifting: able to lift documents and/or electronic equipment up to 20lbs/9kg.
  • Pushing/Pulling: able to push/pull items in office areas.
  • Sitting: able to sit for extended periods of time at computer and in meetings.
  • Squatting/Kneeling: able to occasionally squat or kneel to retrieve or replace items shelved on bottom shelves.
  • Standing: able to stand for extended periods of time.
  • Travel: able to travel independently and at short notice.
  • Walking: able to walk through office and production areas including uneven surfaces.



Equal Employment Opportunity

Airbus provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetics, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status, or other legally protected status. In addition to federal law requirements, Airbus complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, demotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, benefits, and training. Airbus expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetics, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status or other legally protected status.

As a matter of policy, Airbus does not sponsor visas for US positions unless specified. Only applicants with current work authorization will be considered. Airbus does not offer tenured or guaranteed employment. Employment with Airbus is at will, meaning either the company or the employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause, with or without notice. Airbus reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises. This position description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

By submitting your resume or application you are consenting to Airbus using and storing information about you for monitoring purposes relating to your application or future employment. This information will only be used by Airbus.

Airbus is committed to achieving workforce diversity and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or religious belief.

Airbus is, and always has been, committed to equal opportunities for all. As such, we will never ask for any type of monetary exchange in the frame of a recruitment process. Any impersonation of Airbus to do so should be reported to HR@airbusus.com.

Company Website: www.airbusus.com

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