Clinical Quality Specialist I- Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital-Lakeland, FL

Position Summary Opening Summer 2026 at 4000 Lakeland Highlands Road, Lakeland, FL. The Orlando Health System of Care includes award-winning hospitals and ERs, specialty institutes, urgent care centers, primary care practices and outpatient facilities that span Florida's east to west coasts, Central Alabama and Puerto Rico. Collectively, our dedicated team members honor our over 100-year legacy by providing professional and compassionate care to the patients, families and communities we serve. Join us! Combining the collective strengths of two powerhouse organizations, Orlando Health and the high-quality physicians at Watson Clinic are expanding access to award-winning specialty care for patients in Polk County and beyond. Opening in summer 2026, Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital

• a state-of-the-art, seven-story, multi-specialty hospital
• will serve as a vital 550,000 square-foot healthcare hub offering: 300+ inpatient beds and 69 emergency and observation beds 11 operating rooms and four cardiac interventional suites Dedicated labor and delivery services
• including a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) that will debut shortly after the hospital opens Comprehensive cardiovascular, neurology, and oncology services Advanced surgical procedures Join us in shaping the future of healthcare in Polk County as part of the Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital opening team and share in the privilege of saying you were there from the very beginning.

Benefits Beyond the Expected Orlando Health is committed to providing you with benefits that go beyond the expected, with career-growing FREE education programs and well-being services to support you and your family through every stage of life. We begin your benefits on day one and offer flexibility wherever possible, so that you can be present for your passions. "Orlando Health Is Your Best Place to Work" is not just something we say, it's our promise to you. Benefits that begin on Day 1 Four (4) weeks paid parental leave Debt-free degrees through our Preferred Education Program Tuition reimbursement and loan repayment programs Back-up childcare and elder care Fertility benefits and adoption assistance NCLEX reimbursement Free NCPDs for RN license Free Kaplan review courses Dedicated RN career counselor and GN Coordinators to develop you Specialty certifications reimbursement And more!

Position Summary:

The Clinical Quality Specialist is a key member of the quality team, responsible for coordinating and supporting quality initiatives and projects. Responsibilities Essential Functions Support quality and safety initiatives and projects as assigned by the Chief Quality Officer or administrative designee. Facilitate progress toward board-level quality goals by developing strategies, improvement plans, and presentations aligned with organizational priorities. Collaborate with leadership, clinical teams, and staff to design and sustain a comprehensive quality and patient safety program. Partner with cross-functional teams—including risk management, infection prevention, regulatory, data analytics, education, and operational effectiveness—to drive improved outcomes. Build and maintain positive working relationships with physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, and leadership teams. Lead and/or participate in interdisciplinary teams focused on quality and patient safety initiatives. Evaluate clinical and operational environments to identify opportunities for process and practice improvement. Work with leadership to foster a culture that prioritizes quality, patient safety, and regulatory compliance. Assist in the development and implementation of policies and procedures related to quality and patient safety. Support the planning and implementation of new technologies and procedures that enhance quality and safety efforts. Other Related Functions Provide education and training on quality improvement and patient safety practices. Develop and deliver reports for physicians, practice managers, and leadership to identify improvement opportunities and track progress. Serve as a resource for staff on quality and safety matters, including observing daily operations to identify process improvements and patient safety enhancements. Demonstrate initiative, accountability, and strong situational leadership skills. Champion, communicate, and support effective organizational change. Maintain proficiency in current and emerging data platforms used by the organization. Qualifications Education & Training Bachelor's degree required (healthcare, life sciences, or healthcare administration preferred).

Licensure / Certification

Current licensure with the Florida Department of Health in one of the following: Registered Nurse (RN) Respiratory Therapist (RT) Pharmacist (RPh) OR a degree in health, life sciences, or healthcare administration in lieu of clinical licensure. Experience Minimum of three (3) years of experience in a healthcare setting.

Qualifications:

Education & Training Bachelor s degree required (healthcare, life sciences, or healthcare administration preferred).

Licensure / Certification

Current licensure with the Florida Department of Health in one of the following: Registered Nurse (RN) Respiratory Therapist (RT) Pharmacist (RPh) OR a degree in health, life sciences, or healthcare administration in lieu of clinical licensure. Experience Minimum of three (3) years of experience in a healthcare setting.