Specialist, Manufacturing and Operational Excellence

Position Summary: 

The Manufacturing and Operational Excellence Specialist plays a pivotal role in optimizing the operational efficiency of the company’s operations by strategically identifying, proposing, and supporting both functional and cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions and/or projects. Collaborating closely within Manufacturing and cross-functionally, this role champions a culture of continuous improvement, transparency, and effective communication. The Specialist role drives commitment to industrial culture Ways of Working and contributes to the overall success of plant operations by eliminating roadblocks to our success.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Essential Functions:  

• This role requires active engagement with the shop floor by maintaining a qualified status for BSC operations in MACI production.  
• This role will also require completion of Lean/Six Sigma training courses with a minimum certification of Yellow Belt within the first 12 months of the role.
• Partner with Manufacturing team members and leadership to deliver projects and change management through influential leadership and sound project management fundamentals.
• Execute both short-term and long-term improvement project lifecycles by creating plans, overseeing implementation of process changes, tracking progress, validating financial return, and documenting process changes.  
• Direct support as Subject Matter Expert for Manufacturing Systems (For example: Freezer Pro/Cryostorage, ERP, EBR, etc.).
• Provide SME knowledge and support for the prioritization of potential improvements based on impact on the business and required effort.
• Create and maintain the tactical continuous improvement road map for MACI and Epicel manufacturing operations.  
• Gather data for key performance indicators and analyze results, modifying continuous improvement programs in response. 
• Successfully eliminate waste through LEAN principles. 
• Assist in the delivery of continuous improvement related training programs and activities, including Lean, Six Sigma and 5S. 

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or higher degree and 2+ years of experience with manufacturing operations.
• Associate’s degree or GED equivalent and 6+ years of experience with manufacturing operations.
• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal.   
• Advanced to expert level ability with Microsoft office. 
• Experience with ERP, MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems), and scheduling systems (e.g., Microsoft Dynamics GP, MFG/Pro, SAP, Preactor, etc.). 

Preferred Qualifications:  

• Lean manufacturing experience.
• Experience in more than two operations departments.
• Experience in cGMP production environments. 
• Experience working in a regulated environment often audited by internal and external Agencies, such as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and ISO.  
• Proven analytical, problem solving, and facilitation skills.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:

• The schedule for the role is Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Role will be based in Burlington, with travel as needed to support Cambridge projects and operations.
• Ability to gown and gain entry to manufacturing areas.  
• May be required to stand for extended periods of time while performing physical duties. 
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs.

Why Vericel? 

• Cutting-Edge Science: Work with a leading regenerative medicine product that is transforming patient care.
• Career Growth: Be a part of a growing organization with opportunities to expand your impact.
• Collaborative Culture: Work alongside a team of dedicated professionals who are passionate about improving lives.

The salary range Vericel reasonably and in good faith expects to pay for this position at the time of this posting is $78,000 to $90,000 annually. 

The actual salary offered will be determined based on factors such as the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and skills. Bonus, incentive pay, equity and benefits may be provided in addition to the base compensation listed above.

In accordance with Massachusetts law, Vericel provides the pay range that it reasonably and in good faith expects to pay for a particular and specific employment position at the time of posting or offer. This range is subject to change based on business needs, market conditions, and individual qualifications. Employees and applicants may request the pay range for their position or for a position to which they are applying. Retaliation for making such a request is strictly prohibited.

EEO Statement

All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or protected veteran status and will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. Vericel Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Vericel Corporation is VEVRAA federal contractor and desires priority referrals of protected veterans for job openings at all locations within the state.