American Institutes for Research · 2 hours ago
Senior Process Optimization Specialist
American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization dedicated to addressing pressing challenges through behavioral and social science research. The Senior Process Optimization Specialist will lead efforts in process optimization, focusing on human-centered design to enhance workflows and operational efficiency across the organization.
EducationNon Profit
Responsibilities
Shape and Execute Optimization Strategy: As a key member of the process optimization team, shape and design strategies that drive process optimization efforts that align with organizational goals and translate into actionable outcomes
Identify and Prioritize Opportunities: Use data, stakeholder input, and service design tools to identify high-impact areas for optimization
Lead Design Thinking Sprints: Use human-centered design thinking methods to uncover user needs, generate insights, and guide cross-functional teams in co-creating solutions that improve user experience and operational outcomes
Lead Prototyping and User Testing Initiatives: Build high-fidelity prototypes to visualize and refine process optimization strategies. Facilitate user testing sessions to validate solutions, gather feedback, and ensure alignment with user needs and organizational goals
Drive Change Management: Develop and implement change management strategies to support adoption of new processes, including stakeholder engagement, communications, training, and feedback loops
Measure and Communicate Impact: Track design outcomes and communicate value to stakeholders and leadership
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's Degree and 9+ years of experience; Master's Degree and 7+ years of experience; Doctoral Degree and 3+ years of experience
Demonstrated experience leading operational improvement, design thinking, and change management initiatives in complex organizations
Background in research, technical assistance, or mission-driven organizations
Track record of translating abstract concepts into tangible tools and processes
Expertise in design thinking, service design, or human-centered design
Strong facilitation, storytelling, and communication skills
Proven change and project management skills
Ability to work collaboratively across cross-functional teams
Understanding of other common process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Agile)
Proficiency with design and project management tools such as Miro, Figma, Airtable, or similar
Familiarity with behavioral insights and their application in process design and change management
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis
Company
American Institutes for Research
An independent, not-for-profit corporation which performs basic and applied research
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$9.86MKey Investors
U.S. Department of EducationJim Joseph Foundation
2017-11-01Grant· $7.8M
2014-09-08Grant· $0.8M
2010-10-10Grant· $1.26M
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