Chief Operations Officer

Des Moines Public School District • Chicago, IA

2d

About The Position

Des Moines Public Schools is seeking a Chief Operations Officer for the 2027–2028 school year. The COO supervises the Operations department and provides leadership, vision, and commitment to advancing education through effective organizational operations. As a member of the Superintendent’s Cabinet, the COO provides strategic leadership, fosters collaboration, and ensures effective use of operational resources.

The role provides oversight of custodial, facilities, preventative maintenance, transportation, food and nutrition, district and school security, and warehouse services. It also directs the District’s long-range capital investment program and construction projects, including planning, prioritization, budgeting, scheduling, contractor oversight, and compliance. The position is a 12-month, 8-hour-day, exempt administrator role and reports to the Superintendent.

Compensation is determined based on skills, relevant work experience, and education. The posted salary range reflects the first quartile through the midpoint of the position’s salary range. The position qualifies for a 14% tax-sheltered annuity, and single and family health benefits valued at approximately $35,000 annually are provided at no cost to employees. Relocation assistance of up to $6,000 is available. Candidates offered the position must pass criminal background and child and adult abuse registry checks. Depending on the position, fingerprinting, drug and alcohol testing, a physical capacity test, and/or a motor vehicle record check may also be required.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in operations management, education, business administration, or a related field.
• Five years of previous supervisory experience.
• Five years of experience implementing multiple functions within large organizations.
• Knowledge of federal and state laws related to areas of supervision.
• Ability to analyze facts and make sound decisions based on applicable laws, emerging trends, and the strategic plan.
• Effective written and oral communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and delegate when appropriate.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, supervisory, and leadership skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Excellent time management skills and a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to attend work promptly and regularly.
• Ability to maintain satisfactory and harmonious working relationships with the public, students, and other employees.

Nice To Haves

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is preferred.
• Other aligned license or certification in one of the supervisory areas is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and oversight to custodial, facilities, preventative maintenance, transportation, food and nutrition, district and school security, and warehouse services.
• Direct coordination and supervision of the District’s long-range capital investment program and construction projects, including planning, prioritization, budgeting, scheduling, contractor oversight, and compliance.
• Lead cross-functional teams in implementing initiatives that improve operational efficiency and support student outcomes.
• Streamline processes, improve productivity, and optimize resource allocation through operational solutions.
• Analyze operational performance metrics and results against established objectives and goals, and implement corrective actions for continuous improvement.
• Evaluate existing systems to identify opportunities for growth and improvement in efficiency and quality.
• Leverage the effectiveness of resources, programs, and services throughout the district.
• Oversee annual planning and ongoing monitoring of financial, technical, and human resources to ensure services align with the budget, strategic plan objectives, and best practices.
• Communicate operational objectives, initiatives, and results to internal and external stakeholders.
• Support the Board, Superintendent, and colleagues in achieving district goals and objectives.
• Prepare reports and coordinate record keeping in accordance with district, state, and federal program requirements.
• Attend all Board meetings and serve as a resource person for the Superintendent and Board.
• Maintain professional learning and growth through professional organizations, seminars, coursework, and collaboration.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• 14% tax-sheltered annuity (TSA).
• Single and family health benefits valued at approximately $35,000 annually at no cost to employees.
• Relocation assistance of up to $6,000.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive