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Process Improvement Associate Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Associate, Working Capital

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Description Alvarez & Marsal Private Equity Performance Improvement Associate: CFO Services Alvarez ... managing the process through to completion. * Developing findings and making strategic ...

QUALITY & COMPLIANCE SPECIALIST

Elgin, IL · On-site +1

$70K - $120K/yr

Statistical process improvement * Quality documentation * Packaging materials * Food-contact ... ASQ Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) * Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt * ISO ...

Showing results 21-40

Process Improvement Associate information

See Illinois salary details

$38.8K

$87.8K

$128.9K

How much do process improvement associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for process improvement associate in Illinois is $87,842.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,800.00 and $99,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Process Improvement Associate vs Business Analyst?

AspectProcess Improvement AssociateBusiness Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in business, operations, or related field; certifications like Lean or Six Sigma are commonBachelor's degree in business, finance, or related; certifications like CBAP or Six Sigma are advantageous
Work EnvironmentOften in manufacturing, healthcare, or corporate settings focusing on process efficiencyIn various industries including finance, IT, and consulting, analyzing business needs and solutions
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies aiming to optimize processes and reduce costsUsed by organizations to improve business operations and implement technology solutions

While both roles focus on improving organizational efficiency, the Process Improvement Associate primarily concentrates on streamlining processes through methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma. The Business Analyst, on the other hand, often has a broader scope, analyzing business needs, gathering requirements, and recommending solutions, which may include process improvements. Both roles require analytical skills and certifications, but their focus areas and typical industries differ slightly.

What is a process improvement associate?

Process Improvement Associates are professionals who analyze and optimize business processes within an organization to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve quality. They collect data, identify areas for improvement, and collaborate with various teams to implement changes. These associates often use methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen to guide their efforts. Their goal is to streamline operations and support the organization's strategic objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by process improvement associates when implementing new procedures?

Process Improvement Associates often encounter resistance to change from team members who are accustomed to existing workflows. Building consensus and clearly communicating the benefits of proposed improvements is essential to gaining buy-in. Additionally, balancing multiple projects and ensuring that process changes align with organizational objectives can be challenging. Successful associates typically collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to gather feedback, address concerns, and monitor the effectiveness of implemented solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process improvement associate?

To thrive as a Process Improvement Associate, you need strong analytical skills, knowledge of process mapping methodologies, and a relevant degree in business, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with Lean, Six Sigma, and process management software like Microsoft Visio or Minitab is commonly required, and certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Green Belt are often preferred. Outstanding communication, problem-solving abilities, and a collaborative mindset help individuals stand out in this role. These skills enable effective identification and implementation of process enhancements, driving efficiency and value within organizations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Improvement jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Process Improvement jobs in Illinois are:
What job categories do people searching Process Improvement Associate jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Process Improvement Associate jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Process Improvement Associate jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Process Improvement Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Process Improvement Associate job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,842 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

Associate, Working Capital

Alvarez & Marsal

Chicago, IL • On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Alvarez & Marsal rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description

Description
Alvarez & Marsal Private Equity Performance Improvement
Associate: CFO Services
Alvarez & Marsal, a leading independent global professional services firm, specializing in providing turnaround management, performance improvement and corporate advisory services, is seeking to expand its Private Equity Performance Improvement (PEPI) - CFO Services team in various locations throughout the U.S. With more than 3,000 professionals based in 40 locations across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, our firm excels in problem solving and value creation. Drawing on a strong operational heritage and hands-on-approach, our professionals work closely with organizations and stakeholders to help tackle complex business issues and maximize value.
A&M's Private Equity Performance Improvement Services (PEPI) practice, with offices throughout the US, focuses on serving middle market and large cap private equity firms who have engaged A&M to help improve operating results at their portfolio companies.
Our professionals are aligned with a PEPI service line to promote the development of deep functional skills & experiences and to maximize our ability to tailor solutions to solve our clients' business issues.
Our PEPI services include:
CFO Services (including interim management - CFO, Controller, Treasurer)
Rapid Results
CDD/Strategy
Merger Integration & Carve-outs
IT
Supply Chain
The CFO Services practice is a growing business with excellent opportunities for career advancement and building leadership skills. The CFO Services leadership team is focused on providing career development and training for high performing professionals.
PEPI CFO Services Associate:
Professional Experience
  • Solid understanding of finance and accounting, with a preference for CPA's
  • Working with team members through a time-sensitive project by structuring a work plan and managing the process through to completion.
  • Developing findings and making strategic recommendations.
  • Strong financial modeling experience and solid understanding of financial statements - development of 13-week cash flows is preferred; experience with Tableau and think-cell software is a plus
  • Treasury / cash management experience a strong plus
  • Systems implementation experience a plus
Professional Skills
  • Synthesizing meaningful insights from data, opinions, or facts
  • Strong written, oral and analytical skills
  • Strong Excel and PowerPoint skills
  • Structured project management (time, team and work-stream's management)
  • Initiative and drive
  • Critical thinking skills
  • Ability to deliver time-pressured project on-time and on-quality
  • Flexible and creative thinking
  • Client relationship building
Qualifications
  • 4-7+ years of relevant work experience in Management Consulting, Investment Banking, Private Equity, Corporate Strategy or related field (e.g., Treasury, Sourcing, Supply Chain, Corporate Finance, etc.)
  • Bachelor's degree or higher form of education from accredited 4-year institution
  • Strong expertise with data and analytics tools such as Microsoft Excel, PowerBI, Alteryx, Tableau, etc.
  • Flexibility to travel up to 80% of the time at short/immediate notice
#LI-LS1
The salary range is $90,000-$130,000 annually, dependent on several variables including but not limited to education, experience, skills, and geography. In addition, A&M offers a discretionary bonus program which is based on a number of factors, including individual and firm performance. Please ask your recruiter for details.

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