Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 114,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.
Abbott Nutrition is seeking an Operations Excellence Specialist to work our nutrition plant in Casa Grande, AZ.:
As an integral member of the Operations Excellence team, the Operations Excellence Specialist will support manufacturing operations by applying data-driven analysis, structured problem-solving, and Lean Six Sigma methodologies. This role is responsible for identifying and executing improvement projects, maintaining a pipeline of vetted initiatives, and developing Yellow Belt capabilities across the organization.
The Specialist will work cross-functionally to uncover operational opportunities, implement sustainable solutions, and drive continuous, measurable improvements in key performance metrics such as Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and Product Right First Time (PRFT). With a strong emphasis on long-term impact, this role ensures that improvements are embedded into daily operations and aligned with strategic business objectives.
Working at Abbott
At Abbott, you can do work that matters, grow, and learn, care for yourself and your family, be your true self, and live a full life. You’ll also have access to:
Career development with an international company where you can grow the career you dream of.
Employees can qualify for free medical coverage in our Health Investment Plan (HIP) PPO medical plan in the next calendar year.
An excellent retirement savings plan with a high employer contribution
Tuition reimbursement, the Freedom 2 Save student debt program, and FreeU education benefit - an affordable and convenient path to getting a bachelor’s degree.
A company recognized as a great place to work in dozens of countries worldwide and named one of the most admired companies in the world by Fortune.
A company that is recognized as one of the best big companies to work for as well as the best place to work for diversity, working mothers, female executives, and scientists.
The Opportunity
This position works out of our Casa Grande, Arizona location in the Abbott Nutrition division. Our Nutrition business develops science-based nutrition products for people of all ages, from helping babies and children grow to keeping adult bodies strong and active. Millions of people around the world count on our leading brands – including Similac®, PediaSure®, Pedialyte®, Ensure®, and Glucerna® – to help them get the nutrients they need to live their healthiest lives.
Casa Grande, AZ., is one of Abbott’s leading nutrition manufacturing plants in the U.S., reflecting our commitment to innovation and excellence. But we’re more than just a company, we’re a family. Working here you’ll be part of a family that works together to make a difference and enhance the lives of millions worldwide.
What You’ll Work On
- Identify and deliver a minimum of $100,000 in annual cost savings or cost avoidance through targeted improvement projects.
- Provide analytical and process support to Focus Teams, including trend analysis to reduce equipment downtime.
- Actively participate in daily manufacturing meetings and GEMBA walks to support real-time problem-solving and operational awareness.
- Facilitate cross-functional Kaizen events, root cause analyses, and focused problem-solving sessions to drive continuous improvement.
- Develop and maintain Value Stream Maps and/or a Process Transformation document to optimize manufacturing workflows.
- Mentor and train Yellow Belts in the application of Root Cause Analysis (RCA) methodologies and tools, fostering a culture of operational excellence.
- Obtain Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification within one year if not already certified.
- Achieve RCA Champion certification within the first three months of entering the role, if not previously certified.
- Complete FPS Value Stream Mapping (VSM) Level 3 certification within one year if not currently certified.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree - Engineering, Business, Operations, Science or related.
Preferred Qualifications
- Minimum 2 years of demonstrated success in applying LSS/Continuous Improvement/OpEx tools.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in manufacturing operations, business improvement, quality systems, or other areas related to project management.
- Certification or equivalent working knowledge of improvement tools and methodologies
- Lean/Six Sigma; Green Belt preferred.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Pre-Employment Inquiries and Citizenship | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (eeoc.gov)
Apply Now
- Participants who complete a short wellness assessment qualify for FREE coverage in our HIP PPO medical plan. Free coverage applies in the next calendar year.
Learn more about our health and wellness benefits, which provide the security to help you and your family live full lives: www.abbottbenefits.com
Follow your career aspirations to Abbott for diverse opportunities with a company that can help you build your future and live your best life. Abbott is an Equal Opportunity and Military/Veteran friendly Employer, committed to employee diversity.
Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott, and on Twitter @AbbottNews.
The base pay for this position is $60,000.00 – $120,000.00. In specific locations, the pay range may vary from the range posted.
