Associate Process Optimization Consultant

Illuminative Strategies Inc; Springfield (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Illuminative Strategies Inc. in Springfield, IL is seeking an Associate Process Optimization Consultant to work with public-sector clients on transforming processes and managing organizational change. This role targets hands-on analysis, delivering tailored solutions, and supporting ongoing client engagements.

You will contribute to current-state assessments, design future-state processes, and grow analytical capabilities through coaching and mentorship in a dynamic consulting setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication; ability to convey complex information clearly.
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent organization, prioritization, and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines while delivering high-quality work.
• Able to collaborate effectively with diverse clients and project teams.
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Willingness to learn new technologies and methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with clients to understand business challenges and objectives.
• Conduct thorough research and analysis to gather data and insights.
• Assist in developing strategic plans and process improvements.
• Support change management efforts by guiding transitions.
• Contribute to business development by identifying opportunities.
• Participate in project management to ensure timely delivery.
• Prepare presentations and reports communicating findings and recommendations.
• Engage in continuous learning to stay updated on industry trends.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Research skills

Problem solving

Time management

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

MBA or Master's preferred

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft PowerPoint

Visio

PowerBI

Jira

Job description

Description

About ISI

Illuminative Strategies Inc. (ISI) is an award-winning management consulting firm specializing in business process transformation and organizational change management. We primarily partner with public-sector organizations to solve complex operational challenges, implement meaningful changes, and improve the delivery of critical services.

Headquartered in Springfield, Illinois, our consultants work at the intersection of people, process, and technology creating practical and sustainable solutions for our clients.

Position Overview

ISI is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Associate Process Optimization Consultant to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will work closely with clients to identify their needs and develop tailored solutions that drive business success. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills and a passion for helping organizations improve their processes and achieve their strategic goals. This position offers an excellent opportunity for professional growth and development in the consulting field.

You will contribute to larger consulting engagements while taking ownership of assigned deliverables and workstreams. Through hands-on client experience, coaching, and mentorship, you will continue to develop your analytical and root cause analysis skills in documenting and assessing current state processes to design future state solutions.

Essential Responsibilities

• Collaborate with clients to understand their business challenges and objectives.
• Conduct thorough research and analysis to gather relevant data and insights.
• Assist in the development of strategic plans and process improvement initiatives.
• Support change management efforts by helping clients navigate transitions effectively.
• Contribute to business development activities by identifying new opportunities for consulting services.
• Participate in project management tasks to ensure timely delivery of solutions.
• Prepare presentations and reports that clearly communicate findings and recommendations.
• Engage in continuous learning to stay updated on industry trends and best practices.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with a strong academic record required; graduate degree (MBA, Master's, etc.) preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex information clearly.
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organization, prioritization, and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines while producing high-quality work.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse clients and project teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Willingness to learn new technologies, methodologies, and subject matter quickly.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience or coursework in process improvement, change management, and/or project management principles and practices.
• Familiarity with management consulting frameworks and approaches.
• Understanding of business process mapping and baselining data.
• Knowledge of business development strategies within a consulting environment.
• Excellent research skills with the ability to analyze and visualize complex data sets.
• Proficient in business consulting techniques, including strategic planning and business analysis.
• Proficiency with tools such as Visio, PowerBI, Jira, or similar is a plus.

Prior professional consulting experience is not required. ISI values demonstrated potential, initiative, sound judgment, and a commitment to continued learning.

Additional Requirements

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Must live, or be willing to relocate, within commuting distance of ISI's Springfield, Illinois office. Relocation assistant may be available.
• Must be willing and able to work onsite five days per week.
• Must possess a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and automobile insurance that meets Illinois minimum requirements.
• Must be willing and able to travel within the United States based on client and project needs.
• Must be available, when necessary, to meet project commitments, deadlines, and assigned business area needs.