Operations Manager

Reports To: Executive Director

Direct Supervisory Responsibilities: Facilities Associate(s) and Facilities Assistant(s)

position Overview
The Operations Manager supports the Endangered Wolf Center through coordination of general day-to-day operations, including facilities maintenance, administrative processes, and proactive safety procedures.

Institutional Summary

Did you know every Mexican wolf in the wild today can trace its roots back to the Endangered Wolf Center (EWC)? Founded in 1971 by Marlin and Carol Perkins, the EWC  continues to lead the pack with pioneering science, pup fostering, reintroduction, and inspiring educational programs aimed to preserve and protect Mexican Wolves, American Red Wolves, and other wild canid species.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Culture

• Support the Endangered Wolf Center’s organizational culture, promoting transparency and collaboration throughout the organization.
• Attract, hire, retain, and develop a diverse and talented staff, both paid and volunteer, to support operational needs.

Organizational Capacity

• Collaborate with the leadership team to create and implement a strategic plan to meet operational needs.
• Maintain a working environment focused on comprehensive well-being for all EWC staff, with focuses on safety, physical facilities, administrative operations, and growth in sustainability efforts.

Operational Capacity

• Collaborate with departmental leaders to identify and prioritize operational projects.
• Lead project teams, including outside contractors, to ensure safe, efficient, and effective day-to-day operations.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop, maintain, and strengthen effective and fruitful relationships with operational partners, including Tyson Research Center staff, outside contractors, and volunteers.
• Represent the organization in a manner that strengthens the brand and communicates the Endangered Wolf Center’s purpose, mission, and vision.

Key Competencies

Collaboration

• Builds & fosters trust with others
• Motivates with compassion
• Contributes to a team-first culture
• Cultivates positive interpersonal interactions
• Establishes & sustains effective communication pathways

Accountability

• Acts with integrity
• Contributes productively to group efforts
• Owns mistakes and uses them as constructive growth opportunities
• Effectively manages workload
• Delivers positive results

Initiative & Innovation

• Shows good judgment with sound decision-making
• Proactively navigates obstacles in workflow
• Successfully adapts to unexpected challenges
• Demonstrates commitment to continuous learning
• Performs duties without unnecessary supervision

Job Ability

• Displays technical skills appropriate to experience
• Work quality meets expected standards
• Demonstrates professionalism with all stakeholders
• Maintains job-related proficiencies
• Stays up-to-date on field-related knowledge

Stewardship

• Exhibits workplace behaviors consistent with the mission
• Contributes to a sense of belonging, community, and wellbeing for all
• Prioritizes service to others
• Upholds the highest professional ethics and standards
• Demonstrates commitment to safe practices

Experience & Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Bachelor’s degree or higher preferred; education preferences may be substituted by an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• 3-5 years project management, process improvement, or related experience; leadership experience a plus
• Animal facility experience preferred
• AZA-accredited institution and nonprofit experience a plus
• Must hold or be able to possess a valid driver’s license within 3 months of hire
• Successful completion of a background check is required prior to employment

Physical Demands

• This is a full-time on-site role, remote work days are considered on an as-needed basis
• Able and willing to work non-traditional hours (weekends, nights, and holidays) and travel (including overnight trips) as needed
• Capable of holding certification in First Aid and CPR
• Frequent exposure to outside weather conditions and a natural environment
• Frequent sitting, standing, bending, walking (including on uneven surfaces), and occasional unassisted lifting up to 50 lbs