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Process Improvement Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Process Improvement Consultant - Operational Excellence & Business Transformation Department: Operations / Continuous Improvement Reports To: Director of Operations Excellence, Account ...

Senior Manager Process Improvement

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$105K - $147K/yr

Ensure process compliance and appropriate continuous improvement tools are in place and fully utilized to support associate empowerment and data-driven decision making. * Perform advanced data ...

DC Process Improvement Manager

Elgin, IL · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

The DC Process Improvement Manager is responsible for managing continuous improvement projects while supporting Quality/Cost/Delivery operations for North and Latin America. In this role you will:

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Process Improvement information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$41.2K

$93.4K

$137K

How much do process improvement jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for process improvement in Chicago, IL is $93,366.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $106,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is process improvement?

Process improvement refers to the practice of identifying, analyzing, and enhancing existing business processes to optimize performance, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. It involves evaluating current workflows, finding inefficiencies or bottlenecks, and implementing changes to make operations smoother and more effective. Process improvement can be applied to any area of an organization and often uses methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen. The goal is to deliver better quality, speed, and value to customers and the business.

How does a process improvement professional typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement changes?

Process Improvement professionals often work closely with stakeholders from various departments such as operations, IT, quality assurance, and management. They facilitate workshops, collect feedback, and use data-driven analysis to identify inefficiencies and recommend solutions. Successful collaboration requires strong communication and influencing skills, as well as the ability to build consensus around new processes. Regular meetings and progress updates ensure that everyone is aligned and any obstacles are addressed promptly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process improvement specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Process Improvement Specialist, you need expertise in process analysis, project management, and data-driven problem-solving, often supported by a degree in business or engineering and Lean Six Sigma certification. Familiarity with process mapping tools, statistical analysis software, and workflow management systems is typically required. Strong communication, collaboration, and change management skills help drive stakeholder engagement and successful implementation. These competencies are crucial for identifying inefficiencies, implementing sustainable improvements, and achieving organizational goals.

What is the difference between Process Improvement vs Business Analyst?

AspectProcess ImprovementBusiness Analyst
Primary FocusOptimizing processes and workflowsAnalyzing business needs and defining solutions
Skills & CertificationsLean, Six Sigma, project managementRequirements gathering, data analysis, communication
Work EnvironmentOperations, manufacturing, service industriesIT, finance, healthcare, various industries
GoalsIncrease efficiency, reduce wasteImprove business processes, support decision-making

While Process Improvement specialists focus on streamlining workflows and reducing inefficiencies, Business Analysts analyze business needs and recommend solutions. Both roles require analytical skills, but Process Improvement emphasizes methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma, whereas Business Analysts focus on requirements gathering and stakeholder communication. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right roles for operational efficiency and strategic projects.

How to get into process improvement?

To enter process improvement, candidates typically need a background in operations, engineering, or business, along with skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and project management. Earning certifications such as Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen can enhance prospects, and gaining experience through roles in operations or quality assurance is beneficial.

What does a process improvement job entail?

A process improvement job involves analyzing existing workflows to identify inefficiencies and implementing solutions to enhance productivity, quality, and cost-effectiveness. Professionals in this role often use tools like Six Sigma or Lean methodologies and may require strong analytical skills and process mapping knowledge. The goal is to optimize operations and support continuous improvement within an organization.

What jobs focus on process improvement?

Jobs that focus on process improvement include roles such as Process Improvement Specialist, Business Analyst, Lean Six Sigma Consultant, and Continuous Improvement Manager. These positions involve analyzing workflows, identifying inefficiencies, and implementing strategies to enhance productivity and quality, often utilizing tools like Six Sigma, Kaizen, or Lean methodologies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Process Improvement jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Process Improvement jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Process Improvement jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Process Improvement jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Process Improvement jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Process Improvement job openings:

Infographic showing various Process Improvement job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,366 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Sr. Process Improvement Consultant

CBRE

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


CBRE rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 349 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

106th of 492 rated business services


Job description


Senior Process Improvement Consultant - Operational Excellence & Business Transformation
Department: Operations / Continuous Improvement
Reports To: Director of Operations Excellence, Account Leadership, or Continuous Improvement Leader
Location: Remote
Travel: Up to 25%-50%, based on business need
Position Summary
The Senior Process Improvement Consultant is a strategic operational excellence leader responsible for improving performance across complex, multi-site facilities management operations. The role designs scalable processes, governance models, reporting tools, financial controls, and continuous improvement programs that reduce cost, improve productivity, strengthen accountability, and enhance client outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operational Excellence & Process Improvement
  • Lead enterprise-wide operational excellence initiatives that improve service delivery, productivity, quality, and scalability.
  • Assess current-state operations, identify gaps and inefficiencies, and design future-state processes, workflows, SOPs, playbooks, and governance structures.
  • Apply Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen, and continuous improvement methods to redesign processes and sustain measurable results.
  • Partner with Operations, Finance, Procurement, HR, Technology, and Account Management leaders to standardize best practices across sites and regions.
  • Reporting, Analytics & Business Intelligence
  • Design executive dashboards, KPI scorecards, and reporting packages that provide clear visibility into operational, financial, labor, procurement, and client performance.
  • Translate data into actionable insights that support strategic decisions, quarterly business reviews, forecasting, and performance management.
  • Establish standardized metrics, reporting cadences, data governance, and performance controls across functions and locations.
  • Leverage tools such as Tableau, Power BI, Excel, Smartsheet, SharePoint, Service Insight, CMMS, ERP, and related business intelligence platforms.
  • Financial Controls, Procurement & Labor Optimization
  • Improve financial accountability through cost-to-serve analysis, profitability reviews, budgeting support, forecast accuracy, margin enhancement, and variance management.
  • Evaluate labor models, staffing levels, scheduling practices, overtime utilization, productivity drivers, turnover, and workforce planning requirements.
  • Analyze procurement spend, supplier performance, contract compliance, inventory controls, and SKU rationalization opportunities across consumables, chemicals, tools, and equipment.
  • Build scorecards and governance routines that track savings, productivity, compliance, and operational improvement benefits.
  • Technology, Systemization & Program Governance
  • Drive automation and systemization of manual processes, workflows, reporting routines, and recurring business controls.
  • Partner with technology teams to improve platform adoption, data quality, workflow automation, and reporting capability.
  • Develop a continuous improvement governance framework, including project intake, prioritization, benefits tracking, savings validation, and leadership reporting.
  • Maintain an improvement portfolio and mentor operational leaders on continuous improvement tools, methods, and sustainment practices.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Operations Management, Finance, Supply Chain Management, or related field required; master's degree preferred.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt required; Black Belt, PMP, CCIP, or APICS / supply chain certification preferred.
  • Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (required)
  • Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (preferred)
  • PMP Certification
  • Certified Continuous Improvement Professional (CCIP)
  • APICS / Supply Chain Certifications (desired)
  • Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Experience & Skills
  • 8+ years of experience in process improvement, operational excellence, business transformation, management consulting, finance, procurement, facilities management, or related disciplines.
  • Demonstrated success leading enterprise-level improvement initiatives in complex, multi-site service environments.
  • Strong financial acumen, business analytics capability, and experience developing KPI frameworks, dashboards, and executive reporting.
  • Ability to lead cross-functional initiatives across Operations, Finance, Procurement, HR, Technology, and Account Management.
  • Technical proficiency with advanced Excel, Tableau, Power BI, Power Platform, Smartsheet, SharePoint, CMMS, ERP, financial modeling, data analytics, and process mapping tools.
  • Critical Competencies
  • Strategic thinking, executive presence, and strong communication skills.
  • Analytical problem solving, financial acumen, and data-driven decision-making.
  • Process design, project management, stakeholder management, and influencing without authority.
  • Change leadership, continuous improvement mindset, and business transformation orientation.

Why CBRE?
When you join CBRE, you become part of the global leader in commercial real estate services and investment that helps businesses and people thrive. We are dynamic problem solvers and forward-thinking professionals who create significant impact. Our collaborative culture is built on our shared values - respect, integrity, service and excellence - and we value the diverse perspectives, backgrounds and skillsets of our people. At CBRE, you have the opportunity to chart your own course and realize your potential. We welcome all applicants.
Applicant AI Use Disclosure
We value human interaction to understand each candidate's unique experience, skills and aspirations. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to make hiring decisions, and we ask that candidates disclose any use of AI in the application and interview process.
Position Value Proposition
This role serves as a business performance accelerator, creating the structure, analytics, controls, and operational discipline required to transform complex service operations into scalable, high-performing, data-driven organizations. The position directly supports profitability, efficiency, client satisfaction, operational consistency, and long-term growth.
CBRE carefully considers multiple factors to determine compensation, including a candidate's education, training, and experience. The minimum salary for the Senior Process Improvement Consultant position is $115,000 annually [or $55.29 per hour] and the maximum salary for the Senior Process Improvement Consultant position is $120,000 annually [or $57.69 per hour]. The compensation that is offered to a successful candidate will depend on the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience. Successful candidates will also be eligible for a discretionary bonus based on CBRE's applicable benefit program.
Equal Employment Opportunity: CBRE has a long-standing commitment to providing equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, veteran status, political belief, or any other basis protected by applicable law.
Candidate Accommodations: CBRE values the differences of all current and prospective employees and recognizes how every employee contributes to our company's success. CBRE provides reasonable accommodations in job application procedures for individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance due to a disability in the application or recruitment process, please submit a request via email at recruitingaccommodations@cbre.com or via telephone at +1 866 225 3099 (U.S.) and +1 866 388 4346 (Canada).

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About CBRE

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The real estate industry is undergoing significant and exciting change, increasingly driven by data and technology. At CBRE, the world's premier commercial real estate services company, we empower teams to take ownership over that technology and shape it, offering both nimble, research-driven product design and the resources of a Fortune 500 business. We approach culture with intention, valuing camaraderie, collaboration, inclusivity and a healthy work/life balance. The user experience team is passionate about the quality, usability, and simplicity of the experiences we create. Individuals in these roles gather these key user insights, and then use them to inspire and inform product strategy and design solutions. We partner closely with each other, engineering, and product management to create innovative, usable, great-looking products.

Industry

Real estate

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

Year founded

1906

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