Operations Manager

West Michigan Center for Arts and Technology • Grand Rapids, MI

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Operations Manager is an integral member of the team, leveraging systems and cross-organizational coordination to advance WMCAT's mission-based programming and community-facing work. This position manages WMCAT's internal operations — technology liaison and asset management, facilities, financial support (data entry, and trained backup payroll processing), and human resources support — while providing backup front-desk coverage for the Administrative Associate. The ideal candidate brings curiosity, initiative, and a systems mindset to our operations, and thrives in a collaborative environment that advances WMCAT's mission of providing equitable access to opportunity.

Requirements

• Experience managing relationships with vendors or contractors.
• Basic technology troubleshooting skills and comfort supporting others with tech issues.
• Experience with HR functions such as recruitment, onboarding, or benefits administration.
• Comfort with, or willingness to be trained in, payroll processing procedures.
• Strong proficiency in working with computers and various software systems, including but not limited to Microsoft Office suite and QuickBooks Online.
• Comfort working both independently and collaboratively in a mission-driven environment.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and maximize efficiency.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to connect with a diverse group of people.
• Consistent personal transportation will be necessary.
• The candidate should be comfortable working in-person as responsibilities necessitate, with flexibility for remote work at other times.
• Resume and cover letter are required for application.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to communicate in Spanish is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate daily administrative and operational activities across departments, supporting program teams with logistics, reporting, and compliance needs.
• Develop and implement systems to improve workflows and cross-organizational communication.
• Manage relationships with vendors and contractors.
• Create and maintain a welcoming environment for students, families, guests, and staff.
• Provide backup to the Administrative Associate by covering times away from the front desk.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for technology needs experienced by students and staff, managing the relationship with WMCAT's external IT partner (troubleshoot basic issues internally and escalate more complex needs as appropriate).
• Order, inventory, and maintain hardware and software across the organization, including documentation of IT assets and user access credentials.
• Ensure systems remain updated and secure, including antivirus protection and software patches.
• Collaborate with President + CEO to operationalize AI at WMCAT, including use-case identification, ethical and human-centered guardrails, and platform standards.
• Serve as an escalation point for facility needs beyond the Administrative Associate's day-to-day scope.
• Manage facilities-related vendor relationships, contracts and standards.
• Support the hiring process, including posting positions in the talent management software, scheduling candidate interviews, and providing structure and support to hiring managers throughout onboarding and offboarding.
• Coordinate timeline and process for the performance review cycle in collaboration with the President + CEO.
• Administer employee benefits, including facilitating open enrollment.
• Foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture in partnership with the President + CEO.
• Ensure compliance with employment laws and nonprofit standards.
• Serve as a trained backup for data entry and payroll processing, when primary coverage is unavailable.
• Support annual audit and coordinate with WMCAT’s financial partners.
• Maintain a commitment to the mission and vision of WMCAT.
• Demonstrate a willingness and desire to grow professionally, learn new skills, and contribute to a culture of inclusivity and equity.
• Represent WMCAT at occasional designated events throughout the year, which may occur outside of standard scheduled hours.
• Desire to align with WMCAT’s values (listed below).

Benefits

• 15 days of PTO
• 15 paid holidays
• Birthday day off
• Half-day Fridays during the summer
• Simple IRA with employer match of up to 3%
• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental, and Vision), premium 65% (average) paid by employer
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary, and AD&D)
• Paid Family Leave
• Professional development and opportunities for personal growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed