Operations Manager

ABOUT DETROIT COLLEGE ACCESS NETWORK

Detroit College Access Network (DCAN) is committed to increasing postsecondary readiness, enrollment, persistence, and attainment among Detroit students and adult learners. Through strategic partnerships, direct services, and community-based programming, DCAN works to ensure Detroit residents have equitable access to educational and career opportunities.

POSITION SUMMARY

Detroit College Access Network seeks a highly organized, proactive, and solutions-oriented Part-Time Operations Manager to support the organization's day-to-day operations and growing community-based infrastructure.

The Operations Manager will oversee facilities coordination, vendor relationships, purchasing, inventory management, and operational systems across DCAN's Westside and Eastside Hubs.

This is a hands-on position requiring strong independent judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to anticipate and resolve operational challenges. The ideal candidate is resourceful, dependable, and comfortable managing multiple priorities in a growing nonprofit environment.

The position reports directly to the Executive Director and does not include staff supervisory responsibilities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Facilities and Hub Operations

• Coordinate operational needs across DCAN's Westside and Eastside Hubs.
• Monitor facility conditions and coordinate routine maintenance, repairs, cleaning, and service requests.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for property management, maintenance providers, and facility-related contractors.
• Conduct regular facility walkthroughs to identify and address operational concerns.
• Ensure facilities are safe, functional, organized, and welcoming to students, families, staff, and community partners.
• Coordinate building access, security, utilities, and general facility readiness.
• Support facility preparation for meetings, programming, and special events.

Vendor and Contractor Management

• Coordinate relationships with vendors, contractors, and service providers.
• Obtain quotes, schedule services, and monitor project completion.
• Maintain vendor records, service agreements, and maintenance schedules.
• Monitor service quality and address performance concerns.
• Identify cost-effective solutions to operational needs.
• Escalate significant contractual or financial matters to the Executive Director.

Purchasing, Equipment, and Inventory

• Coordinate purchasing of office supplies, furniture, equipment, and operational materials.
• Maintain accurate inventory records for organizational assets and supplies.
• Monitor inventory levels and anticipate purchasing needs.
• Coordinate deliveries, equipment installations, furniture assembly, and workspace setup.
• Track organizational equipment and support asset accountability.
• Ensure purchases follow DCAN's established procurement and approval procedures.

Operational Systems and Administrative Coordination

• Develop and maintain operational procedures, checklists, and tracking systems.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and reduce administrative burdens.
• Coordinate logistical needs related to office moves, workspace transitions, and facility improvements.
• Work with designated IT vendors to coordinate technology equipment and service needs.
• Maintain organized records of maintenance requests, vendor activities, and operational projects.
• Support the implementation of operational improvements across DCAN locations.

Budget and Operational Accountability

• Monitor operational expenditures within established budget parameters.
• Obtain competitive quotes and prepare cost comparisons when appropriate.
• Review invoices for accuracy and verify completion of services.
• Maintain accurate documentation of operational purchases and expenses.
• Recommend cost-saving opportunities and operational improvements.
• Obtain required approval before committing organizational funds or entering contractual agreements.

Communication and Reporting

• Provide regular operational updates to the Executive Director.
• Maintain a centralized tracking system for maintenance requests, purchases, and operational priorities.
• Communicate facility disruptions, maintenance schedules, and operational updates to appropriate staff.
• Coordinate with program leadership to support the operational needs of DCAN's programming and events.
• Proactively identify operational challenges and recommend practical solutions.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of three years of relevant experience in operations, facilities coordination, office management, administrative management, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating vendors, contractors, and service providers.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and project coordination skills.
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage competing priorities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and common administrative systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to travel between DCAN locations within Detroit as needed.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and professional experience will be considered.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Postsecondary education or professional training in business administration, operations management, facilities management, or a related field.
• Experience working in a nonprofit, educational, or community-based organization.
• Experience supporting operations across multiple office or program locations.
• Familiarity with purchasing, inventory tracking, and vendor agreements.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Initiative and Problem-Solving: Anticipates needs, identifies challenges, and implements effective solutions.
• Operational Excellence: Maintains organized, efficient, and reliable systems.
• Accountability: Demonstrates ownership, follow-through, and attention to detail.
• Resource Stewardship: Manages organizational resources responsibly and identifies cost-effective approaches.
• Adaptability: Responds effectively to changing priorities and organizational needs.
• Communication and Collaboration: Builds effective working relationships with leadership, staff, vendors, and community partners.
• Mission Alignment: Demonstrates commitment to educational equity and DCAN's mission.

WORK SCHEDULE AND ENVIRONMENT

This is a part-time position requiring approximately 20 to 25 hours per week, with regular on-site presence at DCAN's Westside and Eastside Hubs.

The schedule will be established in coordination with the Executive Director based on organizational needs. Occasional evening or weekend availability may be required to support facility operations or organizational events.

The role may involve occasional lifting, moving supplies, and coordinating equipment or furniture installations. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable law.

MEASURES OF SUCCESS

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Timely resolution of facility maintenance and operational concerns.
• Consistent readiness and functionality of both DCAN Hubs.
• Effective coordination and accountability of vendors and contractors.
• Accurate maintenance of purchasing, inventory, and operational records.
• Responsible stewardship of organizational resources.
• Proactive communication and follow-through on operational priorities.
• Measurable improvements in organizational efficiency and day-to-day operations.

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 25.0 – 30.0 per week

Work Location: In person