Operational Excellence Engineer

Welcome to the future of nuclear energy, where Westinghouse Electric Company is leading the field with expertise and innovation to shape the power of tomorrow.

At Westinghouse, innovation is in our DNA. We are creative. We think differently. We reimagine the possible across the nuclear industry every day.

As a Operational Excellence Engineer you will drive continuous improvement across Westinghouse Springfields' nuclear fuel manufacturing operations. The role focuses on improving safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance by deploying Lean manufacturing and problem‑solving methodologies. Working closely with production, engineering, maintenance, and quality teams, the role supports the site's transformation towards a high‑performance, waste‑free, learning organisation fully aligned with nuclear industry standards.

You will report to the Head of Operational Excellence & Training and be located at Westinghouse Springfields, Preston.

In this role you will have opportunities for professional development including Black Belt training, leadership pathways, and exposure to major transformation projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and facilitate Lean initiatives including Value Stream Mapping, Kaizen events, 5S, Standardised Work, and Visual Management.
• Deliver measurable improvements in safety, quality, throughput, and cost.
• Train, coach, and mentor teams in Lean methods (White Belt, Yellow Belt, Green Belt level content).
• Develop improvement roadmaps for production areas aligned with the site's Operational Excellence strategy.

Performance & Problem Solving

• Apply structured problem‑solving techniques (A3, RCA, 8D, DMAIC) to resolve recurring issues affecting product flow, equipment reliability, and process capability.
• Support production teams in identifying constraints and implementing sustainable countermeasures.
• Analyse performance data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.

Process & Equipment Improvement

• Support process engineers in capability studies and process optimisation (SPC, DOE, PFMEA).
• Help define and embed standard operating procedures, ensuring agreement on nuclear safety and configuration control requirements.
• Contribute to digitalisation and automation projects supporting smarter, more efficient manufacturing operations.

Operational Governance & Culture

• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and accountability across all levels of the organisation.
• Support implementation of tiered accountability, Gemba walks, and daily performance management routines.
• Ensure improvements comply with nuclear safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements (ONR expectations, site safety case, ALARP).

Qualifications:

• 5+ years' experience in Operational Excellence, Lean Manufacturing, or Continuous Improvement within a complex manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrable experience delivering measurable business improvements.
• Lean Competency System Level 1C certification (or equivalent).
• Analytical skills with experience using data to drive decisions.
• Experience facilitating workshops and coaching teams.
• Knowledge of problem‑solving tools and structured improvement frameworks.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience in highly regulated industries (nuclear, aerospace, defence, pharmaceutical, or similar).
• Working knowledge of Statistical Process Control, Process Mapping, DOE, and capability analysis.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and nuclear safety culture principles.
• Experience with digital lean tools or OEE systems.
• ILM/CMI leadership training or coaching experience.
• Qualified to deliver Lean Competency System Level 1a to teams

Why Westinghouse?

We know that to put forth your best effort, you need to be challenged and enjoy what you do in a supportive and respectful environment. We aim to maintain this balance by offering our employees the amenities, benefits and training they need to reach personal and professional goals.

Below is an example of what employees in the UK can expect:

• Attractive remuneration
• Great benefits and safety:
  • Peer-to-peer recognition program.
  • Life insurance
  • Pension plan
  • Employee Assistance Program: confidential counseling and resources for employees, eligible dependents, and household members
• Learning and development opportunities.
• We encourage our employees to participate in community service events and other team-building activities to strengthen their bonds and inspire each other.

You can learn more about Westinghouse by visiting http://www.westinghousenuclear.com.

Westinghouse is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities.

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