Operational Excellence Specialist

Operational Excellence Specialist Company: Ball Corporation Location: Pittston, PA, US, 18640 Date: Jul 2, 2026 Job Category: Quality/ Continuous Improvement Req. ID: 49961 Primary Purpose of the Position The Operational Excellence Specialist is an entry level position. It is both a facilitative leader and a learner, operating under the supervision of the Regional Manager Lean Six Sigma or Regional Operational Excellence Manager. The Operational Excellence Specialist is expected to learn and understand the can‑making process and get involved with day‑to‑day operations at the plant. The dual focus is on: Leading standardization of the management process at the plant, working directly with employees on all shifts and teams. Leading various process improvement assignments and projects that yield bottom‑line productivity, improved throughput and better quality. This is an entry level development role with an assignment of approximately 2 years. After 2 years, through solid performance, candidates may have an opportunity to grow into a Plant Supervisor role and a path to other future leadership roles. Essential Responsible Areas Plant resource to facilitate and execute plant standardization of the management system and work with employees at all levels to help facilitate, train and track implementation to standard. Leads and facilitates improvement teams, workshop teams, and individual improvement projects aligned with plant or department priorities. Participates as a team member, problem solving resource and group facilitator on plant or department improvement teams as required; also participates in daily problem‑solving activities. Collaborates with plant team to conduct process analysis and performance reporting in support of internal or external client needs. Learns and practices Lean tools and techniques (DMAIC, PDCA, root cause analysis, risk assessment/FMEA, kaizen). Collaborates with plant training resources to support the development, documentation, training, sustainment and improvement of standardized work. Supports and facilitates adoption of best practices to eliminate waste and improve performance for assigned plant or function. Required to present, educate, train and facilitate at all levels and to external audiences. Professional & Education Qualification Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Science, Supply Chain or equivalent work‑related experience. Job‑related experience in process improvement or project management experience; manufacturing experience (preferred). Skills Must be able to prioritize multiple projects, perform complex tasks, organize and follow through consistently and work under pressure to meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment. Proven team builder and leader. Strong written and oral communication, facilitation and presentation skills. Ability to influence upward, across and down without formal authority. Willing to take risks, challenge the status quo and work under ambiguous circumstances. Intellectually, emotionally and logically capable and confident; has the intelligence and stature to quickly gain credibility and become a trusted advisor. Knowledge Computer‑based skills (MS Excel, PowerPoint, Word). Benefits Expected Hiring Salary Range: $66,700 - $93,160. This role will be eligible to participate in the annual incentive compensation plan. Onsite Work Environment: This position is based in Pittston, PA and requires regular in‑person engagement on‑site. Travel and local commute between Ball locations and other possible non‑Ball locations may be required. Ball Corporation is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified job applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, aboriginality, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, veteran status, age, political affiliation or any other non‑merit characteristic. Under Colorado, California, Connecticut, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania law, you have the right to exclude or redact age‑related details—such as your date of birth, school attendance dates, or graduation dates—from your resume, cover letter, CV, or other supporting documents (e.g., transcripts, certificates). Legal authorization to work in the U.S. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visa, now or in the future, for this job opening. * This position will be posted internally for a minimum of 5 days and will remain open until filled or adjusted based on the volume of applicants. #J-18808-Ljbffr