Operational Excellence Project Manager (FT)

Ashe Memorial Hospital • Jefferson, NC

76d

About The Position

The Healthcare Operational Excellence Project Manager is responsible for leading and managing strategic improvement initiatives across the organization. This role applies Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to streamline workflows, enhance patient throughput, and reduce operational inefficiencies. The Project Manager partners with executives, service line leaders, and frontline staff to ensure projects are aligned with organizational goals, regulatory standards, and best practices in healthcare delivery.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, business, nursing, or related field.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in project management or process improvement within a healthcare environment.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional teams in operational or quality improvement initiatives.
• Strong communication, facilitation, and leadership skills, with the ability to influence at all organizational levels.
• Proficiency in data analysis, performance measurement, and reporting tools.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required; Black Belt strongly preferred.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or other project management certification required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage large-scale projects that focus on operational efficiency, quality outcomes, and patient flow.
• Collaborate with executives and department leaders to identify improvement opportunities and prioritize initiatives.
• Apply techniques of Lean, Six Sigma, Value Stream Mapping, data collection and analysis, ARCIE models, action plans, and other performance improvement methodologies to redesign processes and eliminate waste.
• Select, create, interpret and teach data display/analysis techniques and statistical process control tools (i.e., Pareto chart, Histogram, Run Chart, Control charts, etc.).
• Create, interpret and teach logic and process analysis tools (i.e., Flowcharts, Cause and Effect, Root Cause Analysis, etc.).
• Facilitate workshops, Kaizen events, and training sessions to engage staff in process improvement.
• Track, measure, and report project outcomes using key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Develop and maintain project documentation, including charters, timelines, and progress reports.
• Ensure compliance with healthcare regulatory and accreditation requirements related to quality and operational improvement.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement by coaching leaders and staff in Lean principles and change management.

Benefits

• Benefits apply the 1st of the month following employment, per policy.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees