H-1B Visa Operational Excellence Manager Jobs
Operational Excellence Manager roles qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship as specialty occupations requiring at least a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering, business, or a related field. Employers in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics regularly file LCAs for this title. No lottery exemptions apply, so timing your job search around the April cap season matters.
Find H-1B Visa Operational Excellence Manager JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 121+ Operational Excellence Manager jobs
See all 121+ Operational Excellence Manager Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Operational Excellence Manager roles.
Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Astec is a global, environmentally focused infrastructure and manufacturing company of asphalt road building and aggregate processing. Our mission is to design and build the most innovative products for the industries we serve. Leveraging innovative solutions and technologies, we serve customers all over the world.
ABOUT THE POSITION
The Operational Excellence Manager at our manufacturing site in Chattanooga, Tennessee, plays a critical role in driving Astec Industries' Lean Systems throughout the organization. This leader is responsible for advancing strategy deployment, implementing lean methodologies, and aligning plant-level initiatives with corporate strategic goals. The role also serves as a liaison between the General Manager and the Astec corporate team to ensure cohesion in strategy and execution.
LOCATION: This is an onsite position at our Roadtec-Manufacturers Road facility in Chattanooga, TN.
KEY ACTIVITIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
-
Lead the deployment of the Hoshin Kanri strategy framework at the plant and Asphalt business unit level to ensure alignment with corporate goals and initiatives.
-
Plan and facilitate cross-functional Kaizen events that drive measurable improvements across manufacturing, sales, and support functions.
-
Implement core Lean Systems and tools such as 5S, standard work, visual management, value stream mapping, TPM, and continuous flow to eliminate waste and improve efficiency.
-
Champion and oversee the deployment of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), including the implementation of pillars like autonomous maintenance, planned maintenance, quality maintenance, and early equipment management.
-
Design and deliver structured Lean and TPM training programs that teach tools, principles, and cultural behaviors across all organizational levels, ensuring understanding and practical application.
-
Drive continuous improvement initiatives across both shop floor and office operations, supporting functional leaders in achieving performance targets.
-
Coach and mentor employees and leaders in structured problem-solving methods such as A3 thinking to build capability and foster ownership.
-
Act as a hands-on liaison between the site and corporate teams, ensuring strategic alignment and effective communication across all improvement initiatives.
-
Support capital investment planning by conducting ROI analysis and evaluating the operational impact of proposed projects.
-
Develop and maintain True North Boards and PQVC (People, Quality, Velocity, Cost) dashboards to ensure performance visibility and alignment with business objectives.
-
Integrate Lean thinking into onboarding and leadership development programs to reinforce a culture of continuous improvement from day one.
-
Build internal problem-solving capability by coaching teams to sustain gains and independently lead improvement efforts.
-
Facilitate cross-functional alignment sessions to identify priorities, remove barriers, and foster collaboration across departments.
-
Collaborate with corporate leadership to align operational improvements with business growth strategies, including capacity expansion and new product introductions.
TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN THIS ROLE, YOUR EXPERIENCE AND COMPETENCIES ARE:
-
Extensive experience in Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement, with a demonstrated ability to implement and sustain long-term improvements across various business functions.
-
A proven track record of leading and facilitating Kaizen events that deliver measurable results in manufacturing, engineering, sales, service, and administrative processes.
-
Experience with the Hoshin Kanri strategy framework is highly preferred.
-
Strategic thinking and business acumen to align day-to-day actions with long-term organizational goals and growth plans.
-
Exceptional coaching, teaching, and influencing skills, with the ability to engage, educate, and empower employees at all levels—from shop floor operators to executive leadership.
-
Hands-on knowledge of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and its key pillars, as well as experience applying PQVC metrics, True North Boards, A3 problem-solving, and X-Matrix frameworks.
-
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of building trust and alignment across cross-functional and cross-cultural teams.
-
Analytical and data-driven decision-making abilities, with proficiency in performance measurement and root cause analysis.
-
Self-motivation and initiative, with the ability to work independently while collaborating with teams across functions and levels.
-
A continuous improvement mindset, consistently seeking ways to improve processes, culture, and results while modeling Astec Industries, Inc.’s core values.
SUPERVISOR AND LEADERSHIP EXPECTATIONS
-
Report to the General Manager, with a functional relationship to the Director of Operational Excellence.
-
Act as a trusted partner and strategic advisor on lean transformation efforts.
-
Lead by example on the shop floor and in office settings.
-
Deliver periodic updates to corporate leadership regarding initiative progress, risks, and opportunities.
Our Culture and Values
Employees that become part of Astec Industries, Inc. embody the values below throughout their work.
-
Continuous devotion to meeting the needs of our customers
-
Honesty and integrity in all aspects of business
-
Respect for all individuals
-
Preserving entrepreneurial spirit and innovation
-
Safety, quality and productivity as means to ensure success
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Manufacturing Environment
Shop manufacturing environment exposures include exposure to moving mechanical parts, machinery, tools and equipment, vibration, fumes or airborne particles, motorized vehicles, welding and machining operations, outside weather conditions and exposure to the risk of electric shock. The employee may occasionally be exposed to varying levels of dirt, dust, toxic or caustic chemicals, very warm and/or very chilly temperatures. The noise level in the shop can be very loud at times consistent with an industrial assembly facility and may require hearing protection. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Astec Industries, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender (sex), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, citizenship status, a person’s veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law or executive order.
INTRODUCTION
Astec is a global, environmentally focused infrastructure and manufacturing company of asphalt road building and aggregate processing. Our mission is to design and build the most innovative products for the industries we serve. Leveraging innovative solutions and technologies, we serve customers all over the world.
ABOUT THE POSITION
The Operational Excellence Manager at our manufacturing site in Chattanooga, Tennessee, plays a critical role in driving Astec Industries' Lean Systems throughout the organization. This leader is responsible for advancing strategy deployment, implementing lean methodologies, and aligning plant-level initiatives with corporate strategic goals. The role also serves as a liaison between the General Manager and the Astec corporate team to ensure cohesion in strategy and execution.
LOCATION: This is an onsite position at our Roadtec-Manufacturers Road facility in Chattanooga, TN.
KEY ACTIVITIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
-
Lead the deployment of the Hoshin Kanri strategy framework at the plant and Asphalt business unit level to ensure alignment with corporate goals and initiatives.
-
Plan and facilitate cross-functional Kaizen events that drive measurable improvements across manufacturing, sales, and support functions.
-
Implement core Lean Systems and tools such as 5S, standard work, visual management, value stream mapping, TPM, and continuous flow to eliminate waste and improve efficiency.
-
Champion and oversee the deployment of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM), including the implementation of pillars like autonomous maintenance, planned maintenance, quality maintenance, and early equipment management.
-
Design and deliver structured Lean and TPM training programs that teach tools, principles, and cultural behaviors across all organizational levels, ensuring understanding and practical application.
-
Drive continuous improvement initiatives across both shop floor and office operations, supporting functional leaders in achieving performance targets.
-
Coach and mentor employees and leaders in structured problem-solving methods such as A3 thinking to build capability and foster ownership.
-
Act as a hands-on liaison between the site and corporate teams, ensuring strategic alignment and effective communication across all improvement initiatives.
-
Support capital investment planning by conducting ROI analysis and evaluating the operational impact of proposed projects.
-
Develop and maintain True North Boards and PQVC (People, Quality, Velocity, Cost) dashboards to ensure performance visibility and alignment with business objectives.
-
Integrate Lean thinking into onboarding and leadership development programs to reinforce a culture of continuous improvement from day one.
-
Build internal problem-solving capability by coaching teams to sustain gains and independently lead improvement efforts.
-
Facilitate cross-functional alignment sessions to identify priorities, remove barriers, and foster collaboration across departments.
-
Collaborate with corporate leadership to align operational improvements with business growth strategies, including capacity expansion and new product introductions.
TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN THIS ROLE, YOUR EXPERIENCE AND COMPETENCIES ARE:
-
Extensive experience in Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement, with a demonstrated ability to implement and sustain long-term improvements across various business functions.
-
A proven track record of leading and facilitating Kaizen events that deliver measurable results in manufacturing, engineering, sales, service, and administrative processes.
-
Experience with the Hoshin Kanri strategy framework is highly preferred.
-
Strategic thinking and business acumen to align day-to-day actions with long-term organizational goals and growth plans.
-
Exceptional coaching, teaching, and influencing skills, with the ability to engage, educate, and empower employees at all levels—from shop floor operators to executive leadership.
-
Hands-on knowledge of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and its key pillars, as well as experience applying PQVC metrics, True North Boards, A3 problem-solving, and X-Matrix frameworks.
-
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of building trust and alignment across cross-functional and cross-cultural teams.
-
Analytical and data-driven decision-making abilities, with proficiency in performance measurement and root cause analysis.
-
Self-motivation and initiative, with the ability to work independently while collaborating with teams across functions and levels.
-
A continuous improvement mindset, consistently seeking ways to improve processes, culture, and results while modeling Astec Industries, Inc.’s core values.
SUPERVISOR AND LEADERSHIP EXPECTATIONS
-
Report to the General Manager, with a functional relationship to the Director of Operational Excellence.
-
Act as a trusted partner and strategic advisor on lean transformation efforts.
-
Lead by example on the shop floor and in office settings.
-
Deliver periodic updates to corporate leadership regarding initiative progress, risks, and opportunities.
Our Culture and Values
Employees that become part of Astec Industries, Inc. embody the values below throughout their work.
-
Continuous devotion to meeting the needs of our customers
-
Honesty and integrity in all aspects of business
-
Respect for all individuals
-
Preserving entrepreneurial spirit and innovation
-
Safety, quality and productivity as means to ensure success
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Manufacturing Environment
Shop manufacturing environment exposures include exposure to moving mechanical parts, machinery, tools and equipment, vibration, fumes or airborne particles, motorized vehicles, welding and machining operations, outside weather conditions and exposure to the risk of electric shock. The employee may occasionally be exposed to varying levels of dirt, dust, toxic or caustic chemicals, very warm and/or very chilly temperatures. The noise level in the shop can be very loud at times consistent with an industrial assembly facility and may require hearing protection. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Astec Industries, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender (sex), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, citizenship status, a person’s veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law or executive order.
See all 121+ H-1B Visa Operational Excellence Manager Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new H-1B Visa Operational Excellence Manager Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding H-1B Visa Sponsorship as an Operational Excellence Manager
Verify your degree aligns with the role
USCIS requires your degree field to directly relate to Operational Excellence management. Industrial engineering, operations management, or business degrees typically qualify. A general management degree may trigger an RFE if the employer's LCA doesn't clearly connect your field to the role's duties.
Target employers with active LCA filings
Search the OFLC Wage Search by SOC code 11-1021 to identify companies that have recently certified LCAs for operations or general management roles. Repeat filers signal an established sponsorship pipeline, which reduces your risk of an employer backing out mid-process.
Use Migrate Mate to filter H-1B sponsor employers
Filter your search on Migrate Mate by employers with verified H-1B filing history for Operational Excellence and process improvement roles. This saves hours of manual DOL disclosure lookups and surfaces companies already comfortable with the sponsorship process.
Negotiate offer timing around the cap calendar
H-1B cap petitions are filed in April for an October 1 start. If you receive an offer in June, your employer can't file until the following April. Clarify start dates and bridge authorization, like OPT cap-gap, during offer negotiations to avoid a 16-month gap.
Document your process improvement outcomes quantitatively
USCIS adjudicators scrutinize whether Operational Excellence Manager roles truly require a specialized degree. Employer support letters that cite measurable outcomes, such as cycle time reductions or defect rate improvements, strengthen the specialty occupation case alongside your credentials.
Confirm the employer's prevailing wage tier before signing
DOL assigns Operational Excellence Manager roles to a wage level based on complexity and supervision. Check the OFLC Wage Search for your work location's Level I through Level IV range. An offer below the certified LCA wage can delay or invalidate your petition.
H-1B Visa Operational Excellence Manager: Frequently Asked Questions
Does an Operational Excellence Manager role qualify as an H-1B specialty occupation?
Yes, provided the employer can demonstrate the position normally requires at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field such as industrial engineering, operations management, or a closely related discipline. Generic management duties without a defined degree requirement can draw an RFE from USCIS, so the job description and offer letter must clearly articulate the theoretical and practical application of that specialized knowledge.
Which industries most commonly sponsor H-1B visas for this role?
Manufacturing, healthcare systems, logistics, and large financial services firms file the most LCAs for Operational Excellence and continuous improvement roles. These industries run formal Lean or Six Sigma programs that require dedicated managers, making the specialty occupation argument straightforward. You can browse verified sponsoring employers across these sectors on Migrate Mate.
How does my Six Sigma or Lean certification affect H-1B eligibility?
Professional certifications like Six Sigma Black Belt or Lean Master strengthen your petition but don't substitute for a qualifying bachelor's degree. USCIS evaluates specialty occupation based on the role's degree requirement, not the applicant's certifications alone. Certifications are most useful in the employer's support letter, where they help explain why the position demands specialized knowledge beyond general management experience.
Can my employer file my H-1B petition before I finish my OPT?
Yes, and timing this correctly is critical. Your employer should file the H-1B cap petition in April while you're still on OPT. If your OPT expires before October 1, the cap-gap rule automatically extends your work authorization through September 30, provided your employer filed before your OPT end date and your F-1 status remains valid. Confirm the exact cap-gap coverage with your DSO.
What SOC code do employers typically use when filing an LCA for this role?
Most employers file under SOC code 11-9199 (Managers, All Other) or 13-1082 (Project Management Specialists) for Operational Excellence Manager positions, depending on whether the role emphasizes people management or process project work. The O*NET profile for the relevant SOC code describes the typical duties and education requirements, which employers use to support the specialty occupation classification in the LCA and I-129 petition.