Continuous Improvement Specialist

Saint Mary's University; Halifax; Hybrid; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Halifax is seeking a Continuous Improvement Specialist to drive operational excellence and foster a culture of improvement. This temporary full-time role involves leading process improvement initiatives, collaborating with stakeholders, and conducting data analysis across various departments. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree, Lean Six Sigma certification, and 3-5 years of relevant experience. The position offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits package

Defined Contribution Pension plan

Personal days

Professional development

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in process improvement, quality assurance, or operational excellence roles.
• Experience in the post-secondary education sector is preferred.
• Proven experience leading cross-functional improvement projects.

Responsibilities

• Support institutional effectiveness by leading process improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify process efficiencies.
• Conduct process mapping, root cause, and data analysis.

Skills

Process improvement

Data analysis

Lean methodologies

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant field

Master's degree

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Project Management certification

Tools

Data analysis tools

Job description

Date Posted: December 19, 2025

Posting Deadline: Open Until Filled

Department: Program Development Support & Innovation

Type of Employment: Temporary, Full Time (through June 30, 2028)

Group Affiliation: $ 100,606- $ 129,651 (annually)

At Saint Mary's University, you will be surrounded by a talented and dedicated team of professionals committed to accessibility, diversity, and the provision of a positive and supportive learning environment. We recognize the importance of the contribution and growth of each individual in the University's success. We are currently looking to fill the position of Continuous Improvement Specialist (Temporary) to join our Program Innovation & Strategic Initiatives team.

What We Offer

As a team member at Saint Mary's, we are proud to offer many benefits. Some of these include:

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Defined Contribution Pension plan
• Vacation
• Personal days
• Hybrid Flex Option (may be required to travel between campuses or external meetings)
• Professional development
• Holiday closure
• Summer hour schedule
• Employee Transit EPass through Halifax Transit

Job Information And Responsibilities

The Continuous Improvement Specialist supports institutional effectiveness by leading and facilitating process improvement initiatives across academic and administrative departments. The role focuses on driving operational excellence, enhancing service delivery, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in alignment with institutional goals.

Under the direction of the Director, Program Development Support & Innovaton will:

• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify opportunities for process improvement and operational efficiencies.
• Lead cross-functional teams through Lean, Six Sigma, and/or other quality improvement methodologies.
• Conduct process mapping, root cause analysis, and data analysis to inform decision-making.
• Develop and implement performance metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Monitor and report on project outcomes, return on investment (ROI), and sustainability of improvements.
• Facilitate workshops, training sessions, and change management activities to build capacity and promote a culture of continuous improvement.
• Partner with institutional research, IT, and academic/administrative units to align process improvements with strategic priorities.
• Contribute to policy development and review processes to ensure alignment with best practices.

Experience And Education Requirements

To be the successful Continuous Improvement Specialist you will have:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Public Administration, Higher Education, or related field (required).
• Master's degree (preferred).
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (required); Black Belt (preferred).
• Project Management certification (PMP or equivalent) is an asset.
• 3-5 years of experience in process improvement, quality assurance, or operational excellence roles.
• Experience in the post-secondary education sector is preferred.
• Proven experience leading cross-functional improvement projects.
• Experience with data analysis tools and techniques.

Application Details

Required

Apply for this opportunity online using our online application system through Career Beacon. Click on "Apply Now" and complete all required information fields. Qualified candidates should submit the following with their application:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Three Professional References

Late applications may not receive consideration. We appreciate all applications and note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. No telephone calls please.

At Saint Mary's University, equity and diversity are integral to excellence and enrich our community. As an institution committed to fostering an environment of inclusion and respect, we encourage all qualified candidates to apply; however, preference will be given to applicants who self-identify as Black/African Nova Scotians, Indigenous peoples, racialized persons/visible minorities, persons with disabilities and women. If you require accommodations during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition at [e-mail]