Director of Operations, School of Behavioral and Social Sciences

Point Loma Nazarene University•San Diego, CA

7h•$70,304 - $75,000

About The Position

The Director of Operations plays a pivotal role in ensuring the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences runs efficiently and effectively. This role blends analytical insight, operational excellence, and people-centered leadership—supporting the Dean, faculty, and staff to deliver exceptional academic and student experiences. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative setting, balancing strategic oversight with hands-on administrative expertise.

Requirements

Proven ability to manage complex administrative and academic operations in higher education or a similar environment
Strong organizational and project management skills with a keen attention to detail
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities across diverse audiences
Strategic thinker who can anticipate needs and recommend process improvements
Skilled in data management, reporting, and operational analytics (Workday experience preferred)
Experience coordinating across multiple departments and functional teams
Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with faculty, staff, and students
Financial acumen with experience monitoring and tracking budgets
Proactive problem-solver comfortable managing multiple priorities and deadlines
Commitment to the mission and values of the university
A bachelor’s degree in a related field is required
2-3 years of administrative work experience, preferably in higher education
Supervisory experience
High-level proficiency with Google Workspace (Gmail, Calendar, Meet, Chat, Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides) and Microsoft (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel), Coursedog, and Workday.
Familiarity with some artificial intelligence (AI) models and willingness to learn how to effectively use them in the workplace (for instance, an expressed willingness to attend training sessions).
Commitment to the Christian Mission and purpose of PLNU, specifically the integration of faith and learning and high-quality professional education programs.
Ability to compose written materials using correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, syntax, and format.
Strong organization skills, ability to take initiative, work independently, make decisions, handle stress, maintain confidentiality of information, and dependability in follow-through.
Competent multi-tasking skills required, including being able to maintain workflow despite frequent interruptions.
Excellent interpersonal skills to relate to students, faculty, staff, and campus partners (including but not limited to, parents, donors, and alumni), and other members of the public with an affable and flexible disposition.
Willingness to support and enthusiastically engage with people from diverse walks of life, including students, staff, faculty, and School community partners.
Knowledge and skills in the management of budgets, personnel, and facilities.
Commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and shared governance.
Evidence of Christian commitment and active church involvement.
In addition, staff agree to live in agreement with PLNU’s Community Life Covenant .
The job offer is contingent on the successful completion of a background check.

Nice To Haves

Master’s Degree
Five or more years of administrative work experience, preferably in higher education.
Management and supervisory experience (administrative, fiscal, human resources, or a similar field).
Proficiency in Coursedog, Google and Mac products, data management and analytics, Canva, and Workday.
Ability to quickly learn and assist in the implementation of new software.
Accuracy, attention to detail and the ability to work as a team player.

Responsibilities

Oversee daily operations, policies, and processes for the School of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Collaborate with the Dean to manage course scheduling, faculty assignments, and payroll coordination
Support faculty hiring, onboarding, and record maintenance for both full-time and adjunct faculty
Coordinate program assessment and accreditation efforts in partnership with academic leaders
Manage databases and documentation related to curriculum, faculty, and academic records
Prepare and monitor school budgets, providing regular analysis and reporting
Coordinate undergraduate scholarship processes and related communications
Serve as a liaison to university departments such as Records, Admissions, and Institutional Research
Provide administrative and logistical support for meetings, committees, and events
Promote operational efficiency through continuous process improvement and data-informed decisions