Improvement Specialist

UPMC•Altoona, PA

10d

About The Position

UPMC Altoona is seeking a dynamic and experienced healthcare professional to join our Quality Improvement department as an Improvement Specialist! This full-time role is ideal for individuals with a strong clinical background who are eager to lead meaningful change in patient care. The Improvement Specialist will work both in office settings and alongside clinical teams, driving performance improvement initiatives that align with hospital goals and service line priorities. If you have at least five years of related experience, including direct clinical exposure and a demonstrated commitment to quality improvement, this is your opportunity to make a measurable impact in a role that builds on and evolves our Quality Nurse Coordinator framework. This position will primarily work Monday through Friday day shifts - may occasionally work other shifts as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Business Administration or related field required at time of hire/transfer
5 years of related experience required
Knowledge of information systems and process improvement techniques.
Must be able to demonstrate skills to understand and interpret data.
Ability to establish and maintain positive, caring relationships with executives, managers, physicians, non-physician providers, ancillary and support staff, other departments, and patients/families.
Ability to work productively and effectively within a complex environment, handle multiple/changing priorities and specialized equipment.
Exemplary critical thinking, analytical and problem solving abilities required as related to various aspects of patient care.
Critical thinking skills necessary to exercise and to lead others.
Mobility and visual manual dexterity.
Physical stamina for frequent walking, standing, lifting.
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UPMC approved national certification preferred.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Business Administration preferred.

Responsibilities

Project Leadership & Coordination
Lead or co-facilitate teams aligned with annual assessments and organizational goals
Assume leadership roles in core clinical design team meetings and key committees
Support redesign efforts through delegated leadership duties
Create a supportive environment for redesign work within departments
Assessment & Goal Setting
Coordinate assessments of new clinical design projects for implementation
Conduct annual operational assessments using organizational data and surveys
Contribute to setting quality, cost, and service goals based on assessment findings
Communication & Stakeholder Engagement
Communicate clinical design activities and improvements to staff, managers, and administrators
Consult with administrative and medical staff leaders, department heads, and committees
Build positive relationships with staff and leaders across departments
Partner with project area directors to facilitate work and negotiate support
Data & Process Improvement
Apply tracking methods to monitor progress and identify redesign needs
Collect and present accurate, timely data to demonstrate improvement results
Utilize cost-effective approaches when planning team activities
Integrate cost-saving opportunities into clinical practice changes
Coaching & Mentorship
Assess team development stages and apply strategies to achieve goals
Coach and advise team members in collaboration with their supervisors
Provide mentorship at the department, unit, and team levels
Professional Development & Advocacy
Maintain accountability for self-development in facilitation, change management, and quality improvement
Participate in professional organizations to enhance growth and build industry relationships
Share accomplishments through presentations or publications at local, regional, and national forums