Operations Manager

FASTSIGNS®•Grand Rapids, MI

27d•Onsite

About The Position

The Operations Manager provides leadership and oversight for the Installation and Project Management teams at FASTSIGNS of Grand Rapids. This role ensures all installations are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards while driving profitability and customer satisfaction. Rather than a hands-on role helping with installs, the Operations Manager acts as a strategic organizer, facilitator, mentor, and problem solver. They are responsible for setting the installation team up for success, ensuring high first-time quality, along with leading project management to provide fast and seamless support to Sales. All of this is done through building seamless operational processes that provide a world class client experience. Additionally, this position drives long-term workforce development and department strategy to support overall company growth.

Requirements

4–8 years of experience in Operations Management (preferably in signage, construction, graphics, or a related industry)
At least 2–4 years specifically in a leadership/management role.
Proven ability to successfully manage complex installation, production, or project management operations.
Deep understanding of construction installation methods, materials, tools, and safety standards
Demonstrated success in leading, motivating, and developing diverse teams.
Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building skills.

Nice To Haves

Specific experience in the signage industry is highly preferred.
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations Management, or a related field preferred, or equivalent hands-on industry experience.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a strategic roadmap for the installation department to actively drive company growth.
Provide direct leadership, coaching, and mentorship to installers, crew leads, project managers, and subcontractors.
Establish and manage department goals, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and performance standards that align with company objectives.
Partner closely with management and ownership to ensure cross-departmental alignment and operational efficiency.
Oversee and manage all installation scheduling, delivery coordination, and logistics planning for both in-house teams and subcontract installers.
Coordinate freight, equipment rentals, installation material deliveries, and vendor logistics to ensure projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and with minimal disruption to installation activities.
Establish and maintain standardized installation processes, rigorous safety procedures, and quality assurance protocols.
Drive efficiency by improving workflows, adopting new tools/technology, and optimizing labor and material utilization.
Establish and maintain labor standards, installation time benchmarks, and quoting methodologies to ensure accurate labor forecasting, project profitability, and consistency in sales support.
Ensure strict compliance with OSHA, local regulations, and other applicable safety requirements; manage the vehicle fleet maintenance and repairs.
Administer subcontractor agreements, verify certificates of insurance (COI), and negotiate rates to control costs while maintaining high quality.
Ensure the team maintains 5S methodologies and strict cleanliness standards both in the shop and in the field.
Lead the Project Management team to ensure seamless delivery and dedicated support for the sales team.
Oversee permitting compliance, utility marking coordination (including Miss Dig and similar services), and maintain up-to-date permitting and site-preparation reference materials.
Ensure all required site readiness activities are completed, including locating requests (Miss Dig), landlord approvals, and pre-installation compliance requirements.
Ensure consistent execution of critical project milestones, including pre-huddles and pre-install meetings.
Provide leadership and oversight for installation labor estimates, site condition assessments, and project time forecasting to support accurate quoting and scheduling.
Support the team in conducting accurate on-site inspections and field surveys.
Drive continuous improvement into the project management lifecycle and enforce process compliance.
Serve as the secondary point of contact to resolve escalated customer issues efficiently.
Recruit, onboard, and retain skilled installation staff to build a scalable, high-performing workforce.
Design clear career progression pathways for Installers and Project Managers to foster professional growth and long-term retention.
Implement robust training programs focused on technical signage skills, safety protocols, and leadership development.
Continuously cultivate and expand a reliable base of high-quality subcontractors to support business scaling.
Serve as the leadership escalation point for major projects and high-profile clients.
Exceed client expectations by maintaining uncompromising standards of professionalism, timeliness, and installation quality.
Build and maintain strong, lasting relationships with key customers, contractors, and community partners.