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 excellence, continuous improvement, or technology implementation projects (essential).
• Strong practical knowledge of Lean Methodology, its tools, and standard work principles (Green/Yellow Belt level) (essential).
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (Excel, Google Sheets, Grafana, Tableau, or SQL) (preferred).
• Familiarity with modern digital solutions, AI tools, and low-code/no-code application development (PowerApps, AppSheet) (preferred).
• Previous experience working with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) or Warehouse Control Systems (WCS) is preferred.
• A passion for combining analytical thinking with hands-on, real-time problem solving on a fast-paced production floor.
• An engaging, collaborative personality with the ability to influence cross-functional teams and effectively communicate complex updates to various audiences
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with a proven ability to manage multiple competing priorities simultaneously.

What you will get in return:

● 70% off HelloFresh or Green Chef boxes
● Company pension scheme
● Gym membership
● Bupa private medical insurance (including dental & family cover options)
● Mental health first aiders and an employee assistance programme
● Dog friendly office! (London site only)
● Nursery support scheme
● Cycle to work scheme
● Group Life Assurance

Location: The Windmill, 1 Holme Lane, Spondon, Derby, DE21 7HW

To be considered for this role, you’ll need to have the independent right to work in the UK, as we're unfortunately unable to provide sponsorship at this time.

Hybrid Working Policy
We offer a hybrid working policy for eligible roles, allowing flexibility to work from home and in the office. For more details on eligibility and how this applies to the role you're applying for, please consult with your recruiter.

Next steps: Your application will be reviewed and if successful, a member of the Talent Acquisition Team will be in touch within 2 weeks.

You are required to cooperate with HelloFresh in all health and safety matters. You are responsible for ensuring you take reasonable care of your own health, and safety as well as others who may be affected by the work activities you undertake. You must report incidents immediately and actively raise health and safety-related concerns to your Line Manager. As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment, we will process Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks to the successful individual. Failure to disclose relevant information at application or throughout the process could affect your employment with the company.

If you are currently a HelloFresh employee, please make sure you have discussed your application with your Line Manager.