Initiatives & Optimization Specialist - Portland

The Initiatives & Optimization Specialist supports the Strategic Initiatives & Optimization team by helping implement business projects that improve efficiency, processes, and strategic alignment. Reporting to the Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives & Optimization and working with senior leadership, including the Chief Revenue Officer, this role drives operational excellence, fosters cross-functional collaboration, and ensures timely completion of key priorities.

Carson has been synonymous with quality and service since 1938. Originating as a heating oil provider in Portland, we have expanded our reach across the Pacific Northwest, offering a diverse range of services including fuels, lubricants, propane, industrial solutions, and more. Our commitment to customer satisfaction drives our success and inspires our dedicated team!

Key Responsibilities

• Support the execution of detailed project plans for strategic initiatives, including process improvements, system enhancements, and cross-functional implementations.
• Coordinate closely with internal stakeholders to gather requirements, align resources, and drive timely delivery of key project milestones.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks or roadblocks, and proactively escalate issues to the Senior Director.
• Support change management efforts by developing clear documentation, training materials, and communication plans that facilitate smooth adoption across teams.
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) and project outcomes to ensure alignment with business goals.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of internal systems, tools, and workflows, leveraging this understanding to identify inefficiencies and support optimization efforts.
• Apply process workflow knowledge to map, analyze, and improve operational processes, ensuring consistency, scalability, and alignment with strategic goals.
• Lead hands-on training of defined optimized workflows and changes.
• Participate in regular leadership check-ins, providing updates, gathering feedback, and adjusting execution strategies to ensure continued progress and impact.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in project coordination, business operations, or process improvement roles.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with a proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across departments and levels.
• Analytical mindset with a focus on execution, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Proficiency or ability to learn project management and collaboration tools (e.g., Asana, Microsoft Office, Teams).
• Willingness to learn and grow in a fast-paced environment.

Job Details

• Location of position: This position is a remote position.  Must attend monthly in-person meetings or training at a designated Carson office. Travel to various on-site locations will be required dependent upon project schedule.
• Required workdays & hours: This position has a schedule of working Monday thru Friday, with On-Call time that might require weekend work. Hours will be during our regular business hours, usually between the hours of 8 - 5 pm.  Specific work schedule to be determined with manager.

Employer Notes

• A background check and drug screen will be conducted and driving record checked.

Benefits include: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, Aflac, Pre-paid legal, Long-Term Disability, Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, and PTO. 

Please apply at www.carsonteam.com/careers

Carson is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.