Position Overview:

MP Materials is looking for a Project Manager, Manufacturing Operational Excellence, who will be responsible for driving performance, efficiency, and continuous improvement across key projects within MP's Magnetics division. This role partners closely with Operations, Quality, Engineering, EHS and Supply Chain to build and mature sustainable manufacturing systems, standardize operational processes, and create a culture of continuous improvement as our manufacturing operations continue to expand in complexity and volume.

This position will play a critical role in both establishing new best practices from the ground up and leading troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives through the application of Lean Six Sigma methodologies, statistical analysis, root cause problem solving, and cross-functional collaboration. They will oversee improvement projects focused on scrap reduction, throughput improvement, downtime reduction, and operational standardization while maintaining strong alignment with production priorities and business objectives, and ultimately, driving operational excellence.

Position Responsibilities:

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position; it is not intended to be an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the position. The Project Manager, Manufacturing Operational Excellence will be required to perform a full range of responsibilities, including without limitation:

Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence:

• Lead Lean Six Sigma projects from conception through execution.
• Drive process improvement initiatives focused on reducing scrap, improving throughput, increasing uptime, and enhancing product quality .
• Utilize PDCA, DMAIC, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, 5S, and root cause analysis methodologies to improve operational performance.
• Identify opportunities to further improve operational efficiency, quality performance, and manufacturing reliability.
• Identify and resolve operational gaps, constraints, and process inefficiencies.
• Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) to improve process capability and operational reliability.
• Support standardization of manufacturing processes, procedures, and operational best practices.
• Facilitate Kaizen workshops and cross-functional continuous improvement activities.

Data Analytics & Performance Monitoring:

• Analyze manufacturing, quality, maintenance, and operational data to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
• Develop KPI dashboards, reports, and visual management tools to support operational decision-making.
• Perform statistical analysis related to process capability, variation reduction, scrap trends, downtime, and production performance.
• Utilize data analytics tools to support data-driven recommendations and operational improvements.
• Track and report measurable improvement results including cost savings, efficiency gains, and quality improvements.

Team Support & Leadership:

• Support employees on Lean Six Sigma tools, problem-solving methods, and continuous improvement practices.
• Coordinate and/or provide guidance to cross-functional "tiger teams" participating in operational excellence initiatives.
• Promote a culture of accountability, operational discipline, and continuous improvement throughout the organization.
• Support development of standardized problem-solving and data-driven decision making practices.

Reporting and Document Control:

• Maintain documentation related to improvement projects, action items, risk assessments, and operational metrics.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and leadership updates related to continuous improvement activities.
• Support change management activities associated with process improvements and operational changes.
• Verify sustainability of implemented improvements through audits, KPI monitoring, and follow-up reviews.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g. Industrial, Manufacturing, Mechanical), Data Analytics, Supply Chain, Business, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in manufacturing, operational excellence, quality, process engineering, or continuous improvement roles.
• Demonstrated experience leading Lean Six Sigma or operational improvement projects within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, plant operations, quality systems, and process optimization methodologies, informed by a basic understanding of the physics and chemistry underlying diverse manufacturing processes.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong analytical, statistical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the ability to interpret complex operational data and drive actionable improvements.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and adaptable, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Desired Qualities:

• Six Sigma Black Belt certification strongly preferred.
• Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen facilitation, PFMEA, SPC, and root cause analysis methodologies.
• Experience with Power BI, SQL, Python, SAP, or similar data analysis and reporting tools.
• Experience in metals, automotive, advanced manufacturing, semiconductor, or specialty chemical industries preferred.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct authority.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive problem-solver.
• Experience working in greenfield manufacturing environments or startup operations.
• Continuous improvement mindset with strong focus on operational excellence and measurable business results.