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Job outlook for process improvement analysts in the United States
Process improvement analyst job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected process improvement analyst job growth rate is 11% from 2018-2028.
About 108,400 new jobs for process improvement analysts are projected over the next decade.
Process improvement analyst salaries have increased 8% for process improvement analysts in the last 5 years.
There are over 45,964 process improvement analysts currently employed in the United States.
There are 106,343 active process improvement analyst job openings in the US.
The average process improvement analyst salary is $72,770.
Are process improvement analyst jobs in demand?
Process improvement analyst job and salary trends over time
Process improvement analyst jobs over time
Process improvement analyst job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 45,964 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 43,748 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 42,495 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 40,949 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 39,399 | 0.01% |
Average process improvement analyst salary over time
Process improvement analyst salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $72,770 | $34.99 | +2.8% |
| 2024 | $70,777 | $34.03 | +2.0% |
| 2023 | $69,408 | $33.37 | +1.4% |
| 2022 | $68,445 | $32.91 | +1.4% |
| 2021 | $67,515 | $32.46 | +0.0% |
Process improvement analyst jobs by state
Most common states for process improvement analysts
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 1,093 | 157% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 3,120 | 37% |
| 3 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 387 | 37% |
| 4 | Delaware | 961,939 | 358 | 37% |
| 5 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 2,421 | 35% |
| 6 | Vermont | 623,657 | 197 | 32% |
| 7 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 400 | 30% |
| 8 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 864 | 28% |
| 9 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 1,128 | 27% |
| 10 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,560 | 26% |
| 11 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,437 | 26% |
| 12 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 2,316 | 23% |
| 13 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 2,072 | 23% |
| 14 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 444 | 23% |
| 15 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 170 | 23% |
| 16 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 2,821 | 22% |
| 17 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 230 | 22% |
| 18 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 122 | 21% |
| 19 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,100 | 20% |
| 20 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 718 | 20% |
Most common cities for process improvement analysts
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Herndon | 1 | 4% | $79,598 |
| 2 | Idaho Falls | 2 | 3% | $62,460 |
| 3 | Burke | 1 | 2% | $79,584 |
| 4 | Holyoke | 1 | 2% | $92,095 |
| 5 | Bloomington | 1 | 1% | $82,386 |
| 6 | Centennial | 1 | 1% | $92,299 |
| 7 | Highlands Ranch | 1 | 1% | $92,327 |
| 8 | Huntsville | 1 | 1% | $72,598 |
| 9 | Lakewood | 1 | 1% | $92,329 |
| 10 | Chicago | 2 | 0% | $78,846 |
| 11 | Dallas | 2 | 0% | $73,041 |
| 12 | Denver | 2 | 0% | $92,274 |
| 13 | Memphis | 2 | 0% | $63,111 |
| 14 | Washington | 2 | 0% | $92,067 |
| 15 | Arlington | 1 | 0% | $79,739 |
| 16 | Baltimore | 1 | 0% | $83,425 |
| 17 | Des Moines | 1 | 0% | $65,683 |
| 18 | Jacksonville | 1 | 0% | $57,178 |
Process Improvement Analyst job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of process improvement analyst experts
UMass Lowell
Merrimack College
University of Cincinnati Clermont College
University of North Dakota
University of Washington
Widener University
University of Southern Maine
Xavier University
University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Program Coordinator, Masters of Science in EntrepreneurshipUMass Lowell
Department of Marketing, Entrepreneurship & Innovation
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: Remember that your first job does not define your career. You may build a career around that first job or you may use it as a valuable learning experience to change careers at some point. Eventually, what we call our careers are only really seen in hindsight. They are part of a narrative we construct about ourselves. So, don't worry to much about whether you are on the 'right path'. The right path is the one you chose at the time given the constraints and alternatives before you. But make the most of every opportunity you can to learn more about yourself - what you like, what you don't like, and what you find fulfilling about your work.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: Obviously we are seeing a tremendous increase in AI and other digital technologies. These will become a more crucial skill set for many careers going forward. But I wouldn't downplay the role of what are traditionally seen as soft skills like empathy, communications, and judgment. Not only can these distinguish you from robots but from your human competitors as well.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Michael Ciuchta Ph.D.: If all you want is the highest potential starting salary, then you should aim for careers that offer them. But that is a shortsighted way to view things. For example, many careers that have tournament-like pay structures (think entertainment) often have very low starting salaries but the so-called winners enjoy outsized financial gains. If you are thinking about a more traditional career, I think it's important to make sure you are more valuable to your employer than they are to you. This means you have to market yourself, both to your current employer as well as to potential ones. Of course, this approach may not be for everyone and maximizing your salary potential is only one thing you should be considering when assessing job and career opportunities.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Yipeng Yang: Get to know clearly the job duties quickly. Make good connections with colleagues and listen to their advices.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Swagata Banerjee PhD: Digital literacy: As technology continues to evolve, proficiency in digital tools and platforms will become increasingly essential. Adaptability: The ability to quickly learn new skills and adapt to changing circumstances will be crucial in a rapidly evolving industry landscape. Data literacy: Understanding and analyzing data will become more important for making informed decisions and optimizing strategies. Interdisciplinary skills: The ability to work across different disciplines and collaborate effectively with diverse teams will be highly valued. Emotional intelligence: Soft skills such as empathy, communication, and teamwork will continue to be in demand as workplaces become more interconnected and dynamic.
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Reshad Osmani PhD: As a new graduate starting your career, I recommend staying curious, being open to learning from others, seeking feedback, building networks, and being proactive in tackling challenges. Keep developing your analytical skills, stay adaptable, and remember that mistakes are opportunities for growth. Learning by doing should be your number one priority.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Reshad Osmani PhD: To maximize your salary potential when starting your career, consider the following strategies: negotiate your starting salary based on market research, demonstrate your value through accomplishments, seek out opportunities for advancement and growth, continuously improve your skills, consider additional certifications or degrees, and be willing to explore job opportunities that offer competitive compensation packages.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Reshad Osmani PhD: In the next 3-5 years, skills like data analysis, digital literacy, adaptability, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are likely to become even more important across various fields due to the increasing influence of technology, automation, and remote work trends. Additionally, skills related to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and sustainability may also gain prominence.
Renee Robinson Ph.D.
Professor of CommunicationWhat general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Renee Robinson Ph.D.: How can you maximize your salary potential when starting your career in your field?
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Renee Robinson Ph.D.: What skills do you think will become more important and prevalent in the field in the next 3-5 years?
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Renee Robinson Ph.D.: That would be awesome! We were hoping you could answer the following questions: 1. What general advice would you give to a graduate beginning their career in the field?
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Rebecca Bird MAS, BS MT(ASCP): Skills that will become more important in the future are understanding quality measures. Six Sigma Lean principles are very applicable to what we do and help to keep a balanced workflow. A second thing is to understand that you and your coworkers are human. Find resilience tools that help you to keep a calm focus and practice good communication. Stay connected to national organizations for articles and training to stay connected to the future.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rebecca Bird MAS, BS MT(ASCP): To maximize your salary potential, obtain some experience while you are in school. If there is a clinic to volunteer at or a student job in a lab, take it. Higher pay is almost always offered to the evening and night shift technicians. If your new workplace is on 8-hour nights or evenings, create a schedule where evenings and nights do 10s or 12s and suggest it to the leadership. This makes a much better work-life balance.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Rebecca Bird MAS, BS MT(ASCP): As a new graduate, remember why you decided on this career. Was it because you liked to help people? Then remember your results are improving the quality of life for another person. Is it because you like detective work? Then view each sample as a puzzle to work through. Is it because you want to further your education? Then never stop learning.
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Marilyn Krogh: Statistical and communication skills are always in demand, and familiarity with a little AI would be a bonus.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Marilyn Krogh: Know yourself—take time to identify and name your own strengths, interests and priorities in your work life. Take advantage of the services from your university career development center.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Marilyn Krogh: Have a strong undergraduate portfolio, do an internship before graduation, and be willing to 'go an extra mile' for your employer.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Michael Zhang: Don’t worry about your job title. Regardless of what you do, prepare yourself with data and modeling skills and hands-on experience in applying knowledge for developing, evaluating, refining and implementing analytics solutions to your career.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Jennifer Barr PhD: Embrace a lifelong learning mindset at the outset. Read case books about successful organizations, notable leaders and new business practices.
Establish an unwavering reputation as a disciplined and responsible worker.
Strive to be an excellent listener. Your attention to detail will be noticed as evidenced through your work.
Be creative and take risks. Suggest an idea to your supervisor about how to improve a procedure or system. This will position you as an early career problem solver.
Seize every opportunity to grow and build key skills including communication, interpersonal, critical thinking and technology.
Recognize the strong correlation between emotional intelligence and success. This is particularly important as you advance in your career.
Cultivate mentorship opportunities and network as much as possible. Eventually step into a mentorship role.
Honesty, integrity and character matter. Be true to yourself and never deviate from your moral compass. Listen to your instincts always.
Create a strong LinkedIn profile and update regularly. It is one of the top recruiting sites.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
David Hart: This field has become more valuable ever since the supply chain interruption due to Covid. The analyst is challenged every day with supply chain issues and deployment of the right resources to their prospective areas. Every day can be a new challenge so the work is rarely mundane.
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Adam Roth: As a liberal arts graduate, it is critical to focus on networking, continuous learning, and gaining practical experience. I strongly advise leveraging campus recruitment fairs, leadership positions, alumni gatherings, and platforms like LinkedIn to build a robust professional network. Utilize career services to seek out internships or volunteer opportunities that will enhance your skills and expand your professional network. Through your coursework and extra- and co-curricular activities, work on developing skills that are highly sought after by employers of new college graduates and which are in short supply; oral and written communication, analytical reasoning, problem solving, and teamwork. Complement these with technical skills that will make you more versatile in the job market. When possible, find mentors among alumni, internship supervisors, and even parents of friends who will offer guidance and support. Embrace opportunities to showcase your abilities, identify areas for improvement, and pursue additional coursework or online credentials to further enhance your skills and marketability.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Adam Roth: I recommend that students start by identifying a specific skill in demand within your field, such as data analysis or social media marketing, and focus on developing expertise in that area. Research salary ranges and living costs in particular areas where you’re interested in working to ensure your compensation aligns with the local market. Always negotiate a salary and consider other aspects of the offer, such as funds for continuing education, technology and more. Continuing to network and establish demand for your services is essential; attend industry events, join professional associations, and engage with professionals in your field. Never miss an opportunity to reach out to and check in with your professional contacts. Pursue additional learning opportunities and education, such as certifications or advanced degrees, to provide a competitive advantage and increase your earning potential over time.
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Bradley Andrew Ph.D.: So-called soft skills are still in demand by employers, based on recent surveys, because a smaller percentage of graduates possess them. These include:
Showing up and on time;
Having a strong work ethic;
Critical thinking skills
Social skills, including the ability to get along well with people, motivate and encourage them, and leadership skills. Also be able to schmooze with clients over dinner or drinks, or just in your office. A personal touch and connection is something software can’t provide.
Creativity—Apple products, for example, appeal to many people because of their combination of form and function.
The ability to work AI in order to increase one’s productivity will become more important over the next 5 years.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Bradley Andrew Ph.D.: Once you have your first job, ask about or determine the 20% of your supervisor’s job that they hate and start doing that for them. They will love you for it and it will quickly get you recognition. You’ll also be well on your way to learning your boss’s job. Continue doing this as you progress in your career (Kudos to Theo Epstein, former GM for the Red Sox, for this recommendation)
No matter the task you’re given, do it to the absolute best of your abilities. In the professional world, you may often be given menial tasks or tasks that you don’t believe are part of your job description. Doing those tasks to the absolute best of your ability leads to increased trust, recognition and responsibility and will put you “above class.” If asked, the coffee you bring should be the best your boss has ever had. You never know who’s watching.
Don’t expect credit and don’t ask for credit when things go right; give the credit to others.
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Melissa Zimdars: To remember that you're going to learn a lot on the job and that failure is part of the learning process. It's okay to ask questions and to not know things, but you must be willing to take feedback, adjust, and grow.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Melissa Zimdars: - The ability to communicate effectively is an evergreen skill that only seems to be getting more important as the number of ways we communicate with each other, our supervisors, and with clients or outside stakeholders keeps expanding. - The ability to adapt to and learn how to navigate new technologies and platforms.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Melissa Zimdars: Recognize that your first career opportunity won't be your last. If the job you land after college does not have opportunities for growth or advancement, it's imperative that you keep an eye out for them elsewhere as you continue to gain experience in your field.
Fawen Zhang PhD
Professor of AudiologyUniversity of Cincinnati Clermont College
Communication Disorders Sciences And Services
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Fawen Zhang PhD: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Fawen Zhang PhD: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Fawen Zhang PhD: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
Yvette Koepke
Associate Dean for Academic SuccessUniversity of North Dakota
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, And Group Studies
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Yvette Koepke: Skills: Given the rapidly increasing rate of change in our world, human skills like emotional intelligence and innovation will become ever more important. Your background will help you make connections and work well with others, and think creatively and critically by considering various perspectives.
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Victor Menaldo: Learn, learn and learn some more. Adopt a growth mindset where you never stop learning. Gain economic literacy and financial literacy and historical literacy and statistical literacy. This will allow you to complement AI: ask it good questions, contextualize and evaluate its answers, and ask good follow up questions.
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Victor Menaldo: Interacting with AI and knowing how to best exploit it to get the most out of it: increase productivity and value added in whatever field one is in.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Victor Menaldo: Develop oral communication skills that allow you to speak in an articulate manner and organize your thoughts to signal your competence, knowledge, work ethic, and willingness to keep learning and improving.
Tongyang Yang Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Economics and Business AnalyticsWidener University
Business/Commerce
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Tongyang Yang Ph.D.: There are many reasons that people like about being a business analyst, including reasons listed as follows: 1. Analytical Skills and Data Exploration: BAs often analyze data to understand trends and identify areas for improvement. Seeing a successful implementation and its positive impact can be very rewarding. 2. Problem-solving. BAs get to identify inefficiencies and propose solutions that can improve how a business operates. 3. Continuous learning. Business analysts may work on a range of projects and the field of business analysis may be constantly evolving, which required BAs to actively cultivate skills in new businesses. For example, the coming of the AI era requires BAs to master AI fundamentals and data fluency. 4. While some thrive on the problem-solving and communication aspects of a BA role, others may find them less appealing. Carefully consider your personality and preferences to see if this aligns with your career goals.
Tove Rasmussen
LecturerUniversity of Southern Maine
Specialized Sales, Merchandising And Marketing Operations
What general advice would you give to a Process Improvement Analyst?
Tove Rasmussen: Tove Rasmussen advises graduates beginning their career in the field to...
What Process Improvement Analyst skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Tove Rasmussen: Tove Rasmussen believes that the skills that will become more important and prevalent in the field in the next 3-5 years are...
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Tove Rasmussen: Tove Rasmussen suggests that to maximize salary potential when starting a career in the field, individuals should...
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Dr. DAWN TOLONEN MBA: For the near future concentrate on three areas, soft skills, critical thinking, and artificial intelligence (AI). Your technical skills helped you land the job, but it’s your soft skills that lead to promotion.
What will help Process Improvement Analysts increase their earning potential?
Praneet Tiwari: Continue to be a learner! Business degrees give students the foundation they need to begin their careers but to continue to do well in their careers, they need to keep learning. Find opportunities to learn more to keep evolving whether it’s the use of free resources when available or if your organization funds additional degrees then use those opportunities too. The business world is constantly evolving so it’s important to stay current. Another important thing to focus on is networking. Often after we get our first jobs, we get complacent when it comes to networking but building a network is crucial. Connect with other professionals through LinkedIn, your university’s alumni associations, and events specific to your industry.