Director - Operations

Description Summary The Director of Operations serves as a key member of the school leadership team by overseeing campus improvement projects, facilities, transportation, security, dining, and other operational functions that help maintain a safe, functional, and welcoming environment in support of the mission of Southwest Christian School. This position combines project management, facilities oversight, vendor coordination, team leadership, and hands-on operational support to ensure projects and daily operations are completed effectively, within budget, and with minimal disruption to the school community. The ideal candidate is an organized, proactive problem solver who can manage multiple priorities, build strong relationships with contractors, vendors, faculty, and staff, and demonstrate excellence in the stewardship of school resources. As a Christian school leader, the Director of Operations is expected to model Christ-like character and support the mission, vision, and values of the school in all interactions. Essential Job Duties Operational Leadership Provides leadership and oversight for facilities, transportation, security, dining, custodial, groundskeeping, and related operational functions across SCS campuses Establishes and maintains high standards for campus safety, cleanliness, appearance, functionality, and readiness Develops preventive maintenance and long-range replacement plans for major building systems, equipment, vehicles, and campus assets Coordinates operational support for major school events and activities Helps lead the school’s operational response to facility emergencies, severe weather, utility interruptions, and other disruptions Identifies opportunities to improve operational efficiency, service, safety, and stewardship Construction & Capital Project Management Plans, coordinates, and oversees campus construction, renovation, and improvement projects from conception through completion Develops project timelines, budgets, and schedules while monitoring progress and communicating updates to school leadership Coordinates architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, vendors, and inspectors throughout each project Ensures projects comply with applicable building codes, safety regulations, permitting requirements, and school standards Conducts regular site visits to monitor quality, resolve issues, and verify work is completed according to specifications Reviews project proposals, bids, contracts, invoices, and change orders Assists in long-range campus planning and capital improvement priorities Vendor & Contractor Management Develops and maintains strong relationships with vendors and service providers, including security, food service, transportation, custodial, groundskeeping, and facilities contractors Solicits and evaluates competitive bids based on quality, cost, reliability, and service Schedules and coordinates vendor work to minimize disruption to school operations Monitors vendor performance, ensures contractual obligations are met, and addresses concerns in a timely manner Maintains accurate records of contracts, warranties, certificates of insurance, service agreements, and project documentation Budget & Administrative Responsibilities Assists in developing and managing budgets for capital projects, facilities and grounds, security, dining, and transportation Monitors expenditures, identifies opportunities for cost savings, and submits items for payment according to schedule Maintains project documentation, schedules, maintenance records, reports, and other operational records Collaborates closely with school leadership, including the Head of School, Associate Head of School, Chief Financial Officer, Principals, Athletic Director, and Technology Director, to establish operational priorities and communicate project statuses Ensures appropriate operational and regulatory compliance related to facilities, transportation, safety, and contracted services Team Leadership Supervises a shared Administrative Assistant, a Facilities Director, and a Transportation Coordinator Provides clear expectations, regular communication, accountability, and support for employees within the Operations Department Promotes a responsive, service-oriented culture focused on supporting students, faculty, staff, and families Faith Commitment Because Southwest Christian School is committed to providing a distinctly Christian education, the Director of Operations is expected to: Profess faith in Jesus Christ and demonstrate a lifestyle consistent with biblical principles, including a commitment to prayer, devotional study, and active church involvement Support and uphold the school’s Statement of Faith, mission, and core values Model Christ-like character in relationships with students, parents, faculty, staff, vendors, and community members Recognize that every aspect of campus operations contributes to the school’s ministry and educational mission Actively participate in activities that help build a Christ-centered school community Requirements Education & Experience Requirements High school diploma or GED required; bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Facilities Management, Business, or a related field preferred. Three to five years of experience managing construction, facilities, operations, or commercial projects. Demonstrated experience coordinating contractors and multiple vendors effectively and efficiently. Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects while maintaining operational excellence. Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and project specifications. Working knowledge of building systems and maintenance practices. Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to remain calm and decisive during emergencies. Proficiency with standard computer technology and work-order or facilities-management software. Valid driver’s license and ability to travel between school campuses and project sites. Preferred Qualifications Experience as a general contractor, construction superintendent, owner’s representative, facilities manager, or project manager. Experience managing projects or operations in educational, nonprofit, or church settings. Knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, life-safety, and other building systems. OSHA safety training or other facilities-related certifications, or willingness to obtain appropriate training. Physical Demands While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to walk across campus locations; climb, crouch, crawl, and maintain balance on a ladder; sit; use hands to handle tools, equipment, or controls; and talk or hear. The employee may be exposed to cleaning chemicals and varying indoor and outdoor temperatures. The employee is frequently required to reach above shoulder level and may be required to lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close and distance vision. Work hours require flexibility, including occasional evenings and weekends as needs arise. The Director of Operations may be required to respond to urgent operational or facility-related situations outside of normal business hours. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. Additional Duties & Responsibilities This job description is not intended to contain a comprehensive listing of every activity, duty, or responsibility required of an active participant in the mission of Southwest Christian School. Additional duties may be assigned as operational needs arise. #J-18808-Ljbffr