Job Description



About North Country Healthcare (NCH):

North Country Healthcare is a non-profit affiliation of four medical facilities, Androscoggin Valley Hospital, North Country Home Health & Hospice Agency, Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital, and Weeks Medical Center, located in the White Mountains Region of New Hampshire. NCH includes numerous physicians and medical providers at multiple locations. This leading comprehensive healthcare network which employs hundreds of highly-trained individuals delivers integrated patient care through three community hospitals, specialty clinics, and home health and hospice services. NCH remains committed to the health and well-being of the communities we serve.

North Country Healthcare is an equal-opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

If you require a reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to the Human Resources department at the affiliate to which you are applying.



Job Summary:

The North County Healthcare, The Performance Improvement Specialist is responsible for leading and supporting Lean Six Sigma process improvement initiatives within the hospital. This role involves teaching a Yellow Belt Class and mentoring staff performing Yellow Belt projects. Performance Improvement Specialist will be able to work collaboratively with both clinical and non-clinical staff, empowering them to implement Lean methodologies, and drive sustainable change. The Performance Improvement Specialist will contribute to enhancing the quality of patient care, increasing operational efficiency, and reducing costs.

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Process Improvement:
    • Identify, prioritize, and mentor Lean projects that aim to optimize hospital processes, reduce waste, and improve patient outcomes.
    • Apply and promote Lean tools and methodologies, such as Project Charters, Value Stream Mapping, Fishbone Diagrams, PDCA and basic data analysis and others, as well as analyze processes and implement improvements.
  2. Data Analysis:
    • Collect and analyze data to assess the current state of processes and track progress during and after improvement initiatives.
    • Use statistical methods and data-driven insights to identify root causes of issues.
  3. Cross-Functional Collaboration:
    • Collaborate with clinical and non-clinical teams, including physicians, nurses, administrators, and support staff, to implement Lean principles and create a culture of continuous improvement.
    • Facilitate with cross-functional teams to solve complex problems and implement changes.
  4. Training and Education:
    • Provide Lean training and education to staff members, fostering a shared understanding of Lean principles and methodologies.
    • Mentor and coach team members on Lean tools and techniques.
  5. Performance Metrics:
    • Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the impact of Lean initiatives on hospital operations and patient care.
    • Regularly report on project progress and outcomes to leadership.
  6. Quality Assurance:
    • Ensure that Lean initiatives align with quality and safety standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices in healthcare.
    • Promote a culture of continuous improvement and patient-centered care.
  7. Documentation and Reporting:
    • Maintain accurate records of Lean projects, including project charters, process maps, action plans, and results.
    • Assist staff in completing poster boards for annual Quality Showcase.
    • Prepare and present reports to leadership and stakeholders.
  8. Change Management:
    • Effectively communicate changes resulting from Lean initiatives to all relevant parties.
    • Address resistance to change and facilitate buy-in from team members.

Essential Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in a clinical field, or healthcare management, or business administration, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus. Lean Green Belt or Lean Six Sigma certification preferred. Experience in process improvement and Lean methodology in a healthcare setting preferred. Strong data analysis skills and proficiency in relevant software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, statistical software). Excellent project management and facilitation skills. Effective communication and interpersonal skills. Experience as a mentor in a work setting. Knowledge of healthcare regulations and quality improvement standards.


Application Instructions

Please click on the link below to apply for this position. A new window will open and direct you to apply at our corporate careers page. We look forward to hearing from you!

Apply Online