Center Operations Specialist

Job Overview The Center Operations Specialist position is responsible for executing the day‑to‑day operations of one or more USO Centers, providing excellent customer service, and maintaining a safe, friendly, and inviting environment for service members. The position also manages and delivers programs, events and activities to provide engaging experiences for military service members and families, and may guide and administer volunteers. Principal Duties and Responsibilities Execute day‑to‑day Center operational procedures, ensuring a cost‑effective, safe, welcoming, and clean environment. Monitor and maintain facilities and equipment so that they are well‑maintained and ready to use. Enforce sanitary and food‑handling guidelines and regulations. Engage and interact with Center visitors and serve as a subject matter expert about amenities, tours, classes, programs and services; troubleshoot to resolve issues. May direct and manage vendors. Help maintain Center operations within budget. Monitor inventory, handle cash, and provide accurate reports for financial, operational and statistical reports. Provide ad‑hoc reports as required. Create and maintain a Standard Operating Procedure file detailing local operational procedures and Center activities to enable prompt reporting, easy rotation and follow‑on. As directed, help plan and oversee, and lead the execution of, operational areas which may include programs, logistics, inventory management, budget, social media and database management. Assist with operations and programs communications and awareness. Compile and prepare announcements, stories and photos for social media, local media and website publications, ensuring content conforms to USO media guidelines. Deliver or assist in managing the planning and evaluation of new and existing USO programs, activities and events on and off US military installations, coordinating all functions, materials and assets for effective and efficient execution. Assist in reviewing USO programs and service needs within assigned area, researching and recommending new programs and services, and implement resulting program, event or activity changes. With key stakeholders, assist in developing and maintaining relationships with the U.S. Military, local community leaders, partners, donors and media to enhance awareness and support of the USO mission. Coordinate with colleagues to ensure appropriate resources—including volunteers, materials and supplies—are available for all programs, events and activities. Serve as a program resource to colleagues and oversee volunteer participation. Communicate key information to volunteers, including shift openings, policy changes and development opportunities. Generate reports from the volunteer database related to hours worked, applications and other metrics. Direct prospective volunteers through the application process, help coordinate training, implement volunteer recognition events and run reports (e.g., award milestones, birthdays). Submit Volunteer of the Quarter nominations. May be required to operate a USO or personal motor vehicle. Other duties as assigned, including backfilling for Center Operations Manager or other positions. Job Specifications High School Diploma or equivalent. 2+ years work experience in event management, marketing, retail, customer service, recreation facility or related role. Experience in a non‑profit, military, multicultural or global organization preferred. Strong interpersonal, customer service and problem‑solving skills. Ability to interact with USO leadership, the general public and military audiences at a variety of levels with integrity and professionalism. Proficiency using computers and electronics equipment. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, volunteer management software and social media platforms. Experience with Digital Cheetah preferred. Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment regarding culturally sensitive subjects and handle confidential information with tact and poise. Demonstrated initiative, self‑motivation and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects with competing priorities and adapt quickly to change. Team collaboration and achievement of desired results. Basic math skills and knowledge of proper cash/donation handling and reporting procedures, business/accounting functions including project management and budget reconciliation. Willingness and ability to work non‑standard hours as needed. General knowledge of military community preferred. Ability to obtain and maintain credentials necessary to access USO Center locations and facilities—including security, credit or background screening, SOFA status and a valid driver’s license. Ability to obtain and maintain a valid United States passport and valid foreign driver’s license (where applicable). Must be a strong advocate of the USO’s mission. Details This position is located in Great Lakes, IL. Preference to local candidates within commuting distance. Salary range: $48,300 - $69,000. Resume and cover letter are required for full consideration. Background check – education, criminal and driving required. Statements describe the scope of responsibilities; may perform other duties as assigned. #J-18808-Ljbffr