At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive operational excellence through data analysis and hands-on project management.
- Company: Join HelloFresh, a leader in food delivery with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 70% off meal boxes, gym membership, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Hybrid working policy and a dog-friendly office environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on production processes while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and experience in operational excellence preferred.
The predicted salary is between 45091 - 53460 £ per year.
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 Hello Fresh 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., Power Apps, App Sheet) 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 (Power Apps, App Sheet) (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 Hello Fresh 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.
You are required to cooperate with Hello Fresh 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 Hello Fresh employee, please make sure you have discussed your application with your Line Manager.
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Operational Excellence Engineer employer: HelloFresh
HelloFresh is an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture in Spondon, Derby. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer mentorship opportunities and encourage continuous learning to help you excel in your role as an Automation Engineering Shift Supervisor. Join us to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to delivering exceptional service and making a meaningful impact in the food industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Excellence Engineer
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Operational Excellence Engineer role you’re after at HelloFresh.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at HelloFresh a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at HelloFresh.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Operational Excellence Engineer at HelloFresh, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Excellence Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Operational Excellence Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at HelloFresh a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to HelloFresh specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at HelloFresh
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with HelloFresh, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like HelloFresh want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
