Operational Excellence Engineer

About The Team: The Operational Excellence Engineer sits within the UK Operational Excellence team and plays a vital role in driving the delivery, implementation, and continuous improvement of production technologies, processes, and business propositions across HelloFresh distribution centres in the UK market. This is a highly project-driven, hybrid role designed for someone who loves working with data just as much as being present on the shop floor. You will combine disciplined project management with hands-on operational execution to improve key operational KPIs—specifically focusing on Error Rate, Minutes per Box, and productivity. From initial scoping to final on-floor adoption, you will bridge the gap between data-driven insights and real-world operational impact. What You Will Be Doing: End-to-End Project Delivery: Define project scope, milestones, and success measures to lead technical and non-technical Opex projects from initiation through to successful implementation on time and within budget. Continuous Improvement & Lean Execution: Support and lead Yellow and Green Belt projects utilizing Lean Six Sigma methodologies to identify bottlenecks, eliminate waste, and drive a culture of continuous improvement on the shop floor. Data Analysis & Actionable Insights: Analyze complex operational data using tools like Excel, Google Sheets, Grafana, Tableau, or SQL, translating these metrics into actionable business decisions and measurable KPI improvements. Digital & Low-Code Innovation: Leverage AI tools, modern digital solutions, and low-code/no-code platforms (e.g., PowerApps, AppSheet) to build practical on-floor tools that bridge the gap between data insights and daily operations. Stakeholder Management & Collaboration: Lead and influence diverse, cross-functional teams and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders from shop-floor operatives up to senior management through disciplined meetings and clear, structured communication. Change Management & Floor Presence: Maintain a strong, visible presence on the production floor to drive change initiatives, ensure the sustainable adoption of new processes/technologies, and support trials or tests alongside the Senior Opex Manager. Risk & Issue Mitigation: Proactively recognize project risks and operational bottlenecks; create robust avoidance plans, take corrective measures early, and provide transparent status reporting to leadership. Standardisation & Training: Drive operational standards in line with standard work principles, documenting process improvements and providing training to onsite teams on Continuous Improvement methodologies and techniques. Who You Are: Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Operations, or a related technical field (preferred). 2-3 years of experience in food manufacturing, high-volume fulfillment, or packaging sectors (highly preferred). Proven experience leading or contributing to operational exce...