Operational Excellence Manager

Overview

Axiom Space is a human space exploration company, building era-defining space infrastructure and delivering technology-driven solutions that will empower civilization to transcend Earth.

Beginning with Axiom Station, successor to the International Space Station, the company is pioneering a next-generation orbital settlement that will foster groundbreaking innovation and research in microgravity and drive the global space economy of tomorrow.

Today, guided by the vision of leading humanity's expansion off planet, Axiom Space is the principal provider of commercial human spaceflight services and developer of advanced spacesuits for the Moon and beyond.

Axiom Space fosters a work environment inclusive of all perspectives. We are the pioneers of commercial space, leading the transformation of low-Earth orbit into a global space marketplace. Our mission-driven team is seeking a bold and dynamic Operational Excellence Team Member who is fueled by high accountability, execution horsepower, and driven to understand our world, science/technology, and life itself, for the benefit of all on Earth and beyond.

Position Summary

Since Axiom Space is a very complex work environment, we are looking for a resilient, high-energy Operational Excellence Team Member to support Axiom Space's mission by ensuring the smooth, efficient, and high-quality delivery of operational processes.

In this role, you will identify inefficiencies, implement improvements, and install and maintain operational standards across the business, in alignment with Axiom's safety, quality, and performance goals. You will analyze and improve workflows, track KPIs, operational metrics, and quality indicators, and report findings to leadership.

You will also partner with team members across departments to align processes, resolve issues, and drive continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, or other operational excellence methodologies.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Process Optimization: Analyze and improve operational workflows to enhance efficiency, quality, and timeliness
• Performance Monitoring: Track KPIs, operational metrics, and quality indicators; report findings to leadership
• Problem Solving: Identify operational bottlenecks and root causes, and propose actionable solutions
• Compliance & Standards: Ensure adherence to Axiom Space's operational, safety, and quality standards
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work with team members across departments to align processes and resolve issues
• Continuous Improvement: Implement and maintain improvement initiatives, including Lean, Six Sigma, or other operational excellence methodologies
• Documentation: Maintain accurate records of processes, improvements, and operational reports
• Perform additional job duties as assigned

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field, with 5+years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Proven experience in operational improvement, process optimization, or quality assurance
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Familiarity with operational excellence frameworks (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.) is a plus
• Preferred: Experience in space, aerospace, or defense industries
• Preferred: Proficiency with data analysis tools and operational management software
• Track record of making things happen in ambiguous, fast-moving environments
• Uses good judgement to problem-solve proactively, positively impacting hard challenges
• Demonstrated organization skills to meet tight deadlines with high quality results

Core Skills

• Passion for space and the mission
• Entrepreneurial, growth mindset
• High EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally
• Tech-solutioning in using systems and tools to move smarter and faster

Core Competencies

Embody our core values of leadership, innovation, and teamwork. In addition, to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Accountability
• Technical Rigor
• Execution Discipline
• Pride of Delivery

Work Environment

This role is based on-site in Axiom Space's Houston, TX office and requires regular collaboration with cross-functional teams. Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task.

Requirements

• This position may require access to export controlled technical data or technology subject to NASA regulations, International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). In accordance with U.S. export control laws, final candidates may be required to undergo additional export control screening to determine eligibility for access. Meeting these requirements is a condition of employment.
• Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised
• Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones

Physical Requirements

• Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time)
• May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time)
• Equipment and Machines
• Standard office equipment (PC, phone, printer, etc.)