Senior Process Improvement Specialist

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

220 Hutchison Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14627

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

100005 Ofc Exec VP Admin & Finance

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URG 112

Compensation Range:

$70,600.00 - $105,800.00

Responsibilities:

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.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Lead Lean Projects & Facilitate Improvement Work 

• Uses Lean principles to define project objectives, scope, success measures, and alignment with University priorities. 
• Facilitates current state assessments, root cause analyses, Kaizen events, and future state design sessions. 
• Benchmarks best practices within and beyond higher education to inform solutions. 
• Engages teams and leadership to build buy in and ensure project success. 
• Identifies risks and develops mitigation strategies. 
• Tracks and reports project outcomes, including expected and actual benefits. 

Analyze, Redesign, and Improve Business Processes 

• Conducts detailed analysis of operational workflows to identify bottlenecks, waste, and gaps. 
• Uses Lean, Six Sigma, and other improvement frameworks to design and test solutions. 
• Creates process maps, flowcharts, standard work, and related documentation to support improvement and accountability. 
• Ensures redesigned processes are user-centered, scalable, and sustainable across the University and/or Medical Center. 

Manage Multiple Projects and Drive Accountability 

• Manages several improvement projects simultaneously, ensuring timely progress aligned with strategic goals. 
• Develops project plans, charters, timelines, and budgets; monitors performance metrics. 
• Facilitates team meetings, communicates updates, and supports stakeholders through all phases of change. 
• Monitors postimplementation results and adjusts processes as needed to achieve intended outcomes. 

Data Analysis and KPI Monitoring 

• Collects and interprets performance data to identify trends and improvement opportunities. 
• Utilizes dashboards, reports, and analytics tools (e.g., Excel, Tableau, Minitab) to track KPIs and outcomes. 
• Prepares clear, compelling presentations for leadership, including recommendations and impact summaries. 

Build a Culture of Continuous Improvement 

• Partners with departments across the University to understand operational needs and champion continuous improvement practices. 
• Builds relationships with faculty, staff, and administrators to foster engagement and long term adoption of Lean principles. 
• Contributes to training, coaching, and knowledge sharing that strengthens institutional capabilities. 

Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in education, business, industrial, engineering, or related field required
• Master’s Degree preferred
• 2 Years of experience and demonstrated success leading complex improvement projects and facilitating cross functional teams required. 
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong analytical skills and proficiency with data analysis tools (Excel, Tableau, Minitab, or similar) preferred. 
• Excellent facilitation, communication, and interpersonal skills—capable of engaging stakeholders at all levels required. 
• Ability to work independently, prioritize effectively, and manage multiple initiatives simultaneously required. 
• Strong problem-solving mindset with enthusiasm for Lean thinking and continuous improvement culture-building required. 

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

• Lean certification (Lean Practitioner, Lean Leader, Lean Expert) or Six Sigma Green/Black Belt (IASSC or equivalent) preferred

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.