Title: Lean/ Operational Excellence Specialist (m/f/d)

Requisition ID: 73678

Date: May 27, 2026

Location:

Stolberg, NW, DE

Department: Operations

Description:

At West, we’re a dedicated team that is connected by a purpose to improve patient lives that has been at the center of our Company for more than a century. Our story began when Herman O. West solved the problem of supplying penicillin in mass quantities to the US Government during World War 2. Through our work to deliver thousands of life-saving and life-enhancing injectable medicines to millions of patients daily, West’s indelible mark on the healthcare industry has just begun. A name started our story. How will yours help write our future?

There’s no better place to join an inclusive community of professionals with opportunities for lifelong learning, growth and development. Supported by benefit programs, we empower the physical, mental, emotional and financial health of our team members and their families.

We believe in giving back to help those in need in the communities where we live and work. And are equally committed to creating a healthier environment and planet through our sustainability efforts.

Contract details: fulltime, permanent

To be filled: asap

No relocation is provided for this opportunity.

This is an onsite position.

Job Summary

In this role, you will lead strategic Lean improvement initiatives. You will work closely with the Leadership Team and the Process Excellence Team to support the overall vision and drive improvements to ensure that processes meet current and future requirements in terms of cost, quality, delivery, growth, and flexibility, while achieving site and corporate objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Provide leadership and training on Lean philosophies and tools
Organize and facilitate Kaizen workshops / RIEs (Rapid Improvement Events)
Guide cross-functional teams in implementing Lean/Six Sigma methodologies for continuous improvement
Ensure application of the Lean Daily Management System©
Develop and maintain meaningful Lean metrics, status reports, and documentation of identified and implemented projects
Monitor and report monthly on all savings and Lean activities
Facilitate the development, implementation, and adjustment of a site-specific Lean strategy plan
Lead and take responsibility for the site-specific DMAIC program
Share best practices across sites

Education

Successfully completed Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a field related to Business Administration, Operations, Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Industrial Engineering

Work Experience

Initial experience in a manufacturing environment
Hands-on and successful Lean Six Sigma implementation experience in a manufacturing environment

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Fluent in German and English
High level of self-motivation and strong interpersonal skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong problem-solving, coaching, and training capabilities
Proven project management, organizational, and Lean Six Sigma expertise, particularly in applying methodologies such as:
- FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis)
- DMAIC (Define–Measure–Analyze–Improve–Control)
- COPQ (Cost of Poor Quality)
- DFSS (Design for Six Sigma)

License and Certifications

Lean Six Sigma certification, preferably Black Belt

Pay Transparency:

The annual base salary range for this position is €57,600.00 - €73,300.00. Total target compensation is determined using objective and gender-neutral criteria, including relevant experience, qualifications, skills, market benchmarks, geographic location, and the scope and responsibilities of the role.

This position may be eligible for variable compensation and other incentive programs in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans within the country of employment. In addition, team members are eligible to participate in the company’s benefits and total rewards programs applicable to their location and employment status.

West is an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. If you have a special need that requires accommodation in order to apply to West, please send an email to Apply.Accommodation@westpharma.com. Where permitted by law, an offer of employment with West Pharmaceutical Services, or any of its subsidiary or affiliate companies, is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of background screening.