Sr. Process Improvement Specialist

The Senior Process Improvement Specialist plays a critical role in advancing operational excellence across the University of Rochester. This position supports improvement initiatives within academic, administrative, clinical, and research environments to enhance service quality, efficiency, and user experience. The specialist applies deep expertise in Lean methodologies, continuous improvement, change management, and project facilitation to evaluate current-state processes, identify opportunities, and implement sustainable solutions. This role partners closely with cross functional teams—faculty, staff, and administrators—to drive measurable improvements that align with institutional strategies and priorities. Candidates should be passionate about leading Lean initiatives, energizing teams, and facilitating collaborative problem solving in a complex, decentralized organization.

Responsibilities

Lead Lean projects and facilitate improvement work; Analyze, redesign, and improve business processes; Manage multiple projects and drive accountability; Collect and interpret performance data and track KPIs; Build a culture of continuous improvement

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education, business, industrial, engineering, or related field; 2 years of experience and demonstrated success leading complex improvement projects and facilitating cross functional teams; Excellent facilitation, communication, and interpersonal skills—capable of engaging stakeholders at all levels; Ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and manage multiple initiatives simultaneously; Strong problem-solving mindset with enthusiasm for Lean thinking and continuous improvement culture-building; Or equivalent combination of education and experience

Nice to have

Master’s degree; Strong analytical skills and proficiency with data analysis tools (Excel, Tableau, Minitab, or similar); Lean certification (Lean Practitioner, Lean Leader, Lean Expert) or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt (IASSC or equivalent)