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Quality Improvement Associate Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Principal Quality Engineer

Westminster, CO · On-site

$136K - $167K/yr

Associate degree required. * 8+ years relevant work experience. * Experience with continuous quality improvement activities in a manufacturing environment. * Experience with AS9100 or ISO9001 Quality ...

... improvement of inspection methods, inspection plans, internal quality procedures, and quality ... Associate degree in a technical field preferred. High school diploma or equivalent. * Experience in ...

... improvement of inspection methods, inspection plans, internal quality procedures, and quality ... Associate degree in a technical field preferred. High school diploma or equivalent. * Experience in ...

... improvement of inspection methods, inspection plans, internal quality procedures, and quality ... Associate degree in a technical field preferred. High school diploma or equivalent. * Experience in ...

Associate, Quality Control

Boulder, CO · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

The Position The Associate - Quality Control performs day-to-day quality control activities while ... This role contributes to the successful start-up, operation, and continuous improvement of quality ...

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Showing results 1-20

Quality Improvement Associate information

See Colorado salary details

$11

$28

$53

How much do quality improvement associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for quality improvement associate in Colorado is $28.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $33.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Quality Improvement Associate typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive process enhancements?

Quality Improvement Associates frequently work alongside various departments such as operations, clinical staff, and data analysts to identify areas for process optimization. They facilitate regular meetings, gather feedback, and use data-driven analysis to recommend actionable improvements. Effective communication and project coordination are key, as the role often requires balancing multiple initiatives and ensuring that proposed changes are implemented smoothly across teams. This collaborative environment not only enhances the organization's overall quality standards but also provides Associates with valuable exposure to different areas of the business.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Quality Improvement Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Quality Improvement Associate, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in quality assurance or process improvement, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, quality management systems (such as Six Sigma or Lean), and quality audit software is typical. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and collaboration skills help individuals effectively drive change and engage stakeholders. These abilities are crucial because they enable the identification and implementation of effective strategies that enhance organizational efficiency and product or service quality.

What are Quality Improvement Associates?

Quality Improvement Associates are professionals who help organizations enhance their processes, products, or services by identifying areas for improvement and implementing effective solutions. They typically collect and analyze data, collaborate with teams to develop strategies, and monitor outcomes to ensure continuous improvement. These associates often work in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and education, supporting quality assurance initiatives and helping maintain compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Quality Improvement Associate vs Quality Analyst?

AspectQuality Improvement AssociateQuality Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in healthcare, quality management, or related fieldsUsually requires a bachelor's degree, often with certifications like Six Sigma or QA certifications
Work EnvironmentHealthcare settings, hospitals, clinics, or quality improvement teamsManufacturing, healthcare, or service industries focusing on product or process quality
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in healthcare organizations aiming to improve patient careUsed across various industries to analyze and improve quality processes
Primary FocusImplementing quality improvement initiatives and process enhancementsAnalyzing data to identify quality issues and ensure standards are met

While both roles focus on quality, the Quality Improvement Associate primarily works on implementing and managing improvement projects within healthcare settings. The Quality Analyst tends to focus more on data analysis and monitoring quality metrics across industries. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Quality Improvement jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Quality Improvement jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Quality Improvement Associate jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Quality Improvement Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Quality Improvement Associate job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,904 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

RN - Quality Improvement & Infection Prevention (QAPI/IP)

BoulderCentre for Orthopedics and Spine

Boulder, CO

$41 - $59/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Description

Lead Quality. Promote Patient Safety. Make a Lasting Impact.

At Boulder Surgery Center (BSC), quality and patient safety are at the heart of everything we do. We're seeking an experienced Registered Nurse to lead our Quality Assessment & Performance Improvement (QAPI) and Infection Prevention (IP) programs in our orthopedic ambulatory surgery center.

This unique role is ideal for an RN with experience in quality improvement or infection prevention, or for an experienced Pre-Op, PACU, or Operating Room (OR) nurse who is passionate about patient safety, regulatory compliance, and driving clinical excellence.

If you enjoy analyzing data, improving processes, educating staff, and collaborating with physicians and leadership to improve patient outcomes, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact beyond direct patient care.


Department: Pre-Op/PACU

Reports to: Pre-Op/PACU Manager and Clinical Director

Schedule/Type: Full-Time (30 hours/week), Hourly, Onsite | Three 10-hour shifts, Monday-Friday

Wage: $41.00 - $59.00 hr, commensurate with experience

Bonus Eligibility: No

Requirements

What You'll Do

As the QAPI & Infection Prevention RN, you will:

  • Lead and coordinate BSC's Quality Assessment & Performance Improvement (QAPI) Program. 
  • Oversee the Center's Infection Prevention and Control Program. 
  • Monitor quality metrics, identify trends, and recommend improvement initiatives. 
  • Investigate patient safety events and coordinate corrective action plans. 
  • Conduct chart audits, quality reviews, and infection surveillance. 
  • Monitor surgical site infections (SSI) and healthcare-associated infections. 
  • Lead Performance Improvement (PI) projects from planning through implementation. 
  • Prepare quality reports for leadership, physicians, and the QAPI Committee. 
  • Educate and coach staff on quality improvement and infection prevention best practices. 
  • Ensure compliance with CMS, AAAHC, OSHA, CDC, and Colorado regulatory standards. 
  • Serve as the ASCWebQI Super User and provide training and support to staff. 
  • Collaborate with physicians, leadership, and interdisciplinary teams to foster a culture of patient safety. 
  • Support employee health initiatives, including annual influenza vaccination tracking, when assigned. 

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

  • Current unrestricted Colorado Registered Nurse (RN) license 
  • Associate Degree in Nursing 
  • Current BLS, ACLS, and PALS certifications 
  • Previous RN experience in an Ambulatory Surgery Center, Operating Room (OR), Pre-Op, PACU, Medical-Surgical, or Acute Care setting required.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and critical thinking skills 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills 
  • Ability to independently manage multiple priorities while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams 
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic health record systems 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience serving in a quality improvement, infection prevention, accreditation, regulatory compliance, or patient safety role within a healthcare setting.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
  • Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC or CAIP), or willingness to complete required infection prevention education.
  • Experience conducting chart audits, quality reviews, infection surveillance, and performance improvement initiatives.
  • Experience with ASCWebQI or similar quality management software.

Why You'll Love This Role

This position offers the opportunity to influence patient care beyond the bedside. You'll partner with clinical leaders and physicians to improve outcomes, strengthen patient safety initiatives, and ensure the highest standards of quality throughout the surgery center.

Ideal candidates enjoy:

  • Solving complex problems 
  • Working with clinical data 
  • Leading quality improvement initiatives 
  • Educating and mentoring others 
  • Collaborating across departments 
  • Driving meaningful organizational change 

Why Join Boulder Surgery Center?

At Boulder Surgery Center, we believe exceptional patient care starts with exceptional people. When you join our team, you'll be part of a collaborative culture that values clinical excellence, continuous improvement, and patient safety. We empower our employees to make meaningful contributions, support professional growth, and help shape the future of orthopedic surgical care.

Our team enjoys:

  • Monday-Friday schedule 
  • Benefits-eligible full-time position (30 hours/week) 
  • No evenings, weekends, on-call, or holiday shifts 
  • Competitive  compensation 
  • Comprehensive  medical, dental, and vision benefits 
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) 
  • 401(k)  with Safe Harbor employer contribution 
  • Continuing education and professional development opportunities 
  • Collaborative,  team-oriented culture 
  • The opportunity to make a measurable impact on patient safety and quality 

About Boulder Surgery Center

Boulder Surgery Center is a leading orthopedic ambulatory surgery center committed to delivering safe, compassionate, and exceptional surgical care. Our physicians, nurses, and clinical teams work together to provide outstanding patient experiences while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.


Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're passionate about improving healthcare quality and helping shape the future of patient safety in an outpatient surgical setting, we'd love to hear from you.


Company Paid Benefits

Company-paid Basic Life & AD&D Insurance

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

401(k) Safe Harbor Employer Contribution


Additional Benefit Options

Medical

Dental

Vision

Health Savings Account (HSA)

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Short-Term Disability

Long-Term Disability

Voluntary Life & AD&D

Accident Insurance

Hospital Indemnity Insurance

Critical Illness Insurance

Legal Plan

Identity Theft Protection

401(k)



Closing Date: Applications accepted ongoing

Boulder Centre for Orthopedics is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Our hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We encourage diverse candidates to apply and welcome the opportunity to build a talented and inclusive workforce. In our recruitment and employment practices, we adhere to applicable federal, state, and local laws, ensuring fairness and inclusivity in all aspects of employment. We value diversity and believe that a diverse workforce enhances our ability to serve our patients and community effectively. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply, regardless of background or identity.