Operations Director, Northern Virginia Science Center

Virginia Information Technologies Agency

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The opening of the Northern Virginia Science Center is the largest project in the Science Museum’s history. We are seeking a strategic Operations Director with proven museum or cultural institution experience who will bring our vision to life through exceptional day-to-day execution and a relentless focus on the guest experience. As the on-site operational leader, the Operations Director will shape how guests experience the Science Center. This role will build high-performing teams, establish a culture of accountability and collaboration, and ensure that every interaction reflects our commitment to engaging, relevant and inspiring science experiences. Overseeing the Admissions, Facilities and Exhibits teams, the Operations Director will integrate operational excellence across all areas of the building. In partnership with contracted teams supporting housekeeping, grounds and security, this role ensures the Science Center operates seamlessly, safely and at the highest standard. Working closely with executive leadership, the Operations Director will translate strategy into action, aligning daily operations with agency priorities, continuously improving performance and helping position the Northern Virginia campus as an essential resource for the community. This is a unique opportunity to help launch a major new cultural destination and impact its success from day one. We are looking for a leader who thrives in complexity and is energized by growth. Someone who brings experience in museums, science centers or similar public-facing institutions and understands how to deliver operational rigor and meaningful guest engagement. While the position is primarily weekday-based, flexibility is essential. As part of a vibrant, guest-centered institution, this role requires regular availability on evenings, weekends and holidays to support operations and ensure a consistently exceptional experience. The Science Center is slated for a spring/summer 2027 opening. The position will be based in Northern Virginia, but will participate in robust training in Richmond throughout the summer/fall 2026 until the Science Center is fully constructed. To learn more about the Science Center, please visit https://www.novasci.org/about-novasci. Interested candidates must apply at https://jobs.virginia.gov. All applications should include a cover letter and a detailed resume with the names and contact information of three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled, with priority review beginning May 11, 2026. The selected candidate will begin on or after July 10, 2026.

Requirements

Strong background in leadership, guest services, and operations.
Experience with facilities, exhibits, and technology.
Excellent management, organizational, and analytical skills.
Experience in budget oversight, process improvement, and strategic planning.
Strong communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work effectively with clients, vendors, staff, and stakeholders at all levels.
Proven experience managing people, processes, and projects both independently and as part of a team.
Attention to detail.
Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to provide strategic oversight.
Ability to inspire and motivate staff and volunteers.
Ability to help create a creative and dynamic work environment.
Proven museum or cultural institution experience.

Nice To Haves

Background or interest in education, history, museum studies.
Significant experience in museum, business or hospitality management.
Bilingual Spanish proficiency.
Strong public relations and customer service skills.

Responsibilities

Oversee the Admissions, Facilities and Exhibits teams.
Integrate operational excellence across all areas of the building.
Ensure the Science Center operates seamlessly, safely and at the highest standard in partnership with contracted teams supporting housekeeping, grounds and security.
Translate strategy into action, aligning daily operations with agency priorities.
Continuously improve performance.
Help position the Northern Virginia campus as an essential resource for the community.
Build high-performing teams.
Establish a culture of accountability and collaboration.
Ensure that every interaction reflects our commitment to engaging, relevant and inspiring science experiences.