Improvement Specialist (Patient Safety/UPMC Shadyside)

UPMC Senior Communities • $75K — $95K *
Pittsburgh, PA 15237In-Person
Healthcare
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of related experience, including 3 years in hospital/healthcare settings.
  • Minimum 7 years of improvement experience, with 5 years specifically in Quality or healthcare.
  • Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Business Administration, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
  • Proficiency in information systems and process improvement techniques.
  • Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills relevant to patient care.
  • Ability to establish positive relationships across various departments and with all staff levels.

Responsibilities

  • Lead project teams in alignment with organizational goals and annual assessments.
  • Coordinate assessments for new clinical design projects and conduct annual operational evaluations.
  • Effectively communicate activities and improvements in clinical design to all stakeholders.
  • Monitor and track progress to identify areas for redesign and improvement.
  • Coach and mentor team members, fostering an environment conducive to growth.
  • Engage in professional development and advocacy by participating in relevant organizations.

Benefits

  • Hybrid work model allows for both on-site and remote work options.
  • Opportunity for professional growth through mentorship and coaching.
  • Participation in professional organizations for network building and development.
  • Engagement in quality improvement processes enhances job satisfaction and impact.
  • Access to ongoing training and development opportunities to stay current in the field.
Full Job Description
Improvement Specialist (Patient Safety/UPMC Shadyside)

Position Overview: The Patient Safety Improvement Specialist conducts thorough reviews of patient safety events and works closely with the Chief Nursing Officer, Medical Director of Patient Safety, and Patient Safety Officer to determine event classifications in line with Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority guidelines. This role helps facilitate and lead Root Cause Analyses using a Just Culture approach to identify system issues and opportunities for improvement. The specialist supports improvement projects that arise from good catches, high-risk near misses, and serious or sentinel events, helping drive safer processes and a stronger culture of safety across the organization.

Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, hybrid model with on-site and work from home availability

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 with staff, managers, and administration
    • 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 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


Qualifications:

  • Minimum 5 years of related experience with 3 years of hospital and/or healthcare experience to be considered.
  • *Minimum 7 years of improvement experience with 5 years in Quality and or healthcare experience required for posted salary.
  • Bachelor's degree in Nursing, Business Administration or related field required at time of hire/transfer.
  • Master's degree in Business Administration preferred.
  • 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.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:
  • UPMC approved certification required. If the employee does not have a UPMC approved certification, a Master's degree may be substituted in lieu of certification.
  • Act 34

About UPMC Senior Communities

UPMC Senior Communities Careers

There has never been a better time to explore the diverse job opportunities at UPMC Senior Communities—the leading network of senior living facilities focused on innovative care and professional excellence.

Work You’ll Do

Join UPMC Senior Communities to assist in transforming the experience of aging through top-tier care and wellness programs. This is an opportunity to be part of a team that values leadership, diversity, and innovation in the healthcare sector. Lead in a unique role where skills in healthcare, empathy, and leadership converge to enhance the lives of seniors. UPMC Senior Communities stands at the forefront of the industry, integrating advanced technology and personalized care practices. Engage with a professional network of healthcare providers and administrators dedicated to pioneering improvements in senior living. Collaborate with over 3,000 dedicated professionals across various facilities.

Introducing the UPMC Senior Communities Professional Development Program

The program is designed to foster career growth through comprehensive training, leadership development, and diversity training. UPMC Senior Communities is committed to nurturing the professional growth of its team members through continuous education and opportunities for advancement.

Do Innovative Work

Be part of a culture that thrives on innovation and continuous improvement. UPMC Senior Communities employs a vast array of healthcare professionals and support staff, all dedicated to setting new standards in senior care.

Drive Change in Senior Healthcare

Deliver targeted solutions and personalized care that significantly improve the quality of life for residents. UPMC Senior Communities offers a platform for professionals to apply their expertise in a meaningful and impactful way.

Be Part of a Great Team

Work alongside a team that values compassion and professionalism, harnessing the collective capabilities to deliver exceptional care. UPMC Senior Communities promotes a collaborative environment where every team member’s contribution is valued.

Future-Proof Your Career

Advance your career within UPMC Senior Communities through a variety of pathways, from direct care positions to administrative roles. Enjoy robust benefits, professional development programs, and a supportive work environment that encourages long-term career growth.

Explore

Discover how UPMC Senior Communities leads the way in senior healthcare innovation: - Implementing cutting-edge health technology to enhance resident care - Developing community-based programs that support holistic wellness

The UPMC Senior Communities Employment Promise

With a commitment to employee satisfaction and career development, UPMC Senior Communities ensures that all team members have the resources and support to succeed. Clients and their families rely on UPMC Senior Communities for compassionate and skilled care, making it a prime choice for those seeking meaningful employment in the healthcare sector.

Stay Connected

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests. UPMC Senior Communities looks for passionate, curious, creative, and solution-driven team players. SEARCH UPMC SENIOR COMMUNITIES JOBS

Keep Up to Date

Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work at UPMC Senior Communities.

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Explore the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at UPMC Senior Communities.
Learn more about UPMC Senior Communities
Industry
Hospitals & Medical Centers
* Ladders Estimates

Similar Jobs

Ad banner background

Get Ready For Your
Next Interview

More Jobs at UPMC Senior Communities

More Healthcare Jobs

Find similar Improvement Specialist (Patient Safety/UPMC Shadyside) jobs:

NationwidePittsburgh, PA