Operations Manager

New Moms•Chicago, IL

23d•$62,000 - $68,000•Onsite

About The Position

Bright Endeavors is a social enterprise of New Moms, a nonprofit organization rooted in the belief that every young family has the potential to thrive. Through paid job training and holistic support, we partner with young moms as they build strong foundations for their families. Every candle we pour lights the path forward for a brighter future. Position Summary Bright Endeavors is seeking a strategic and hands-on Operations Manager to overs ee the daily production, distribution, inventory, and supply chain operations of our growing soy candle and home fragrance social enterprise. T his role is responsible for ensuring that production, fulfillment, and quality goals are consistently met while maintaining efficient systems and strong team leadership. The Operations Manager partners closely with production staff and the finance team to ensure accurate inventory management, cost control, and operational sustainability. This is a highly collaborative role that blends people leadership, systems thinking, and hands-on operational execution all in support of a mission-driven workforce development model. Location: Bright Endeavors (627 N Albany Ave) Schedule: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, M-F 8:30am-4:30pm Starting Salary: $62,000 - $68,000 DOQ What a Day Might Look Like Your day might begin by reviewing production and shipping plans, ensuring your team is set up to meet daily goals. You’ll check inventory levels, troubleshoot any operational challenges, and connect with Operations Coordinators to ensure the production floor is running smoothly. Throughout the day, you may move between reviewing order fulfillment, coordinating with the Finance Manager on inventory and cost tracking, and connecting with vendors to manage supply needs. You’ll also spend time coaching team members, supporting their development, and ensuring systems and processes are being followed effectively. During busy production seasons, you may step in to support hands-on work, ensuring deadlines are met without compromising quality. You’ll also continuously look for opportunities to improve workflows, strengthen systems, and enhance overall operational efficiency.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required, OR Associate’s degree with 5+ years of experience, OR high school diploma/equivalent with 7+ years of related experience
3+ years of experience in manufacturing, operations, or supply chain management
3+ years of experience supervising staff, volunteers, or interns
Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment
Valid driver’s license, safe driving record, and insurance; Daily access to a reliable vehicle
Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed

Nice To Haves

Experience with MRP and/or inventory management systems preferred
Experience with Shopify, Katana, or similar platforms preferred
Experience with Microsoft Office and QuickBooks preferred
OSHA 40-hour certification (or willingness to obtain post-hire)
Forklift certification (or willingness to obtain post-hire)

Responsibilities

Oversee daily manufacturing, shipping, and receiving operations, ensuring production and fulfillment goals are met
Manage production schedules and monitor performance using MRP systems
Coordinate customer orders and invoicing with Sales and Finance partners
Maintain equipment, safety standards, and efficient use of production and warehouse space
Manage purchasing, inventory tracking, and material flow
Ensure inventory accuracy and alignment with cost of goods sold (COGS)
Monitor product costs, resolve discrepancies, and identify margin improvements
Partner with Finance on forecasting and vendor management
Lead inventory counts, audits, and reconciliation processes
Develop and maintain SOPs and operational systems
Improve inventory, warehouse, and production processes, including barcode systems
Train staff on tools, systems, and workflows
Supervise, coach, and develop Operations Coordinators and production staff
Support scheduling, coverage, and ongoing performance development
Ensure effective training for staff and volunteers

Benefits

Medical insurance with generous employer contribution
Dental and vision insurance
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance – 100% employer-paid
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and resources
Generous paid time off, as well as 15 paid holidays and half days on Fridays during the summer
403b retirement plan with employer match
Pre-tax transportation benefits
Professional development support
Free spiritual direction services