HR Operations Excellence Specialist

It's fun to work in a company where people truly believe in what they are doing. At Dutch Bros Coffee, we are more than just a coffee company. We are a fun-loving, mind-blowing company that makes a difference one cup at a time. 

Position Overview:

The People Operations department at Dutch Bros is dedicated to advancing our HR model for enhanced consistency, simplicity, and innovation in delivering programs and processes. Our mission is to cultivate proactive, predictive, and engaging experiences for our employees. Through Lean-Agile methodology, we integrate discipline, transparency, and accelerated approaches to deliver inclusive HR solutions across the enterprise. This strategic blend harnesses Lean principles for efficiency and Agile practices for flexibility, aiming to revolutionize Dutch Bros' HR processes and services. By prioritizing efficiency and flexibility, we ensure our HR initiatives respond to evolving business needs, elevating employee experiences and organizational effectiveness.

As the HR Operations Excellence Specialist, you will optimize core systems, processes, and services to increase efficiency, improve service delivery, and create outstanding employee experiences. Through close collaboration with stakeholders, you’ll build a culture of continuous improvement and operational discipline that supports strategic business goals. You will also coach and develop Lean-Agile thinkers across the organization, equipping teams with the mindset, tools, and capabilities to drive sustainable improvement and foster a high-performance culture.

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Education, or related field.

• 3-5 years of experience in process improvement, engineering, or a related role

• Proficiency in Lean Six Sigma principles and tools (Green Belt certification preferred).

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, demonstrated through effective data analysis and root cause identification.

• Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to achieve project objectives.

• Proficiency in data analysis tools and software application to drive informed decision-making.

• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines, maintaining high standards of quality and accuracy.

• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices.

Location Requirement: 

This role is located in Tempe, Arizona. This position is required to be in office 4 days per week (Mon-Thurs); Fridays are optional remote work days.

Key Result Areas (KRAs):

People Operations Process Engineering & Continuous Improvement:

• Conduct end-to-end process assessments within the People Operations to identify inefficiencies, gaps, and opportunities for improvement using Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques.

• Define and scope process improvement initiatives through detailed project charters and work plans that align with HR and enterprise priorities, including timelines, success metrics, and stakeholder engagement strategies.

• Engineer new processes and re-engineer existing ones using structured methodologies such as DMAIC, Value Stream Mapping, and Kaizen to increase efficiency, standardization, and scalability across HR services.

• Leverage data and performance metrics to evaluate process outcomes, identify root causes, and enable data-informed decision-making that drives continuous improvement.

• Ensure successful project execution by delivering assigned process improvement initiatives on time, within budget, and in alignment with defined scope.

• Maintain thorough process documentation: Create and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), workflows, instructional materials, and training documents to ensure consistency and compliance.

Execution of Strategic Projects & Culture of Excellence:

• Lead cross-functional initiatives from planning through execution—including testing, cutover, and change adoption—ensuring alignment with strategic goals and successful delivery of optimized processes.

• Drive continuous improvement efforts by applying Lean-Agile principles and facilitating training, coaching, and workshops that b