Operations Manager - Safety Programs

About the OpportunityJob SummaryThe Operations Manager – Safety Programs plays a vital role in leading day-to-day operations, owning compliance obligations, and driving key process improvement initiatives. This position serves as the operational and organizational backbone for the Office of Academic Research Safety (OARS), managing everything from customer-facing services and co-op student programs to digital platforms and compliance systems. The ideal candidate will balance strong organizational skills with a systems-thinking mindset, exercising independent judgment and strategic leadership to shape the direction and effectiveness of OARS operations.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree or equivalent experience in business, operations, safety management, or related field5+ years of experience in operations management, program leadership, or a related role, with a demonstrated track record of meeting deadlines and driving resultsProven ability to lead cross-functional projects and manage competing priorities with minimal oversightStrong analytical and problem-solving skills with a process improvement orientationExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across all levels of the organizationProficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Teams and ExcelCustomer service orientation with a professional demeanorPreferred QualificationsKnowledge of compliance, safety programs, or regulatory requirementsFamiliarity with laboratory or research environmentsExperience with ticketing or operational management systems (ServiceNow or similar)Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities1) Program Operations & Strategic Projects (50%)Develop, implement, and maintain operational policies, procedures, and standards that support departmental needs and institutional objectivesPartner with subject matter experts to improve respiratory protection and lab coat programs, including data analysis, supply chain management, and performance evaluationEstablish and manage reporting frameworks to communicate safety-related metrics and KPIs to leadership and stakeholdersIdentify, prioritize, and drive process improvement initiatives across OARS business operationsServe as project lead for cross-functional organizational efficiency efforts, facilitating stakeholder communications and conducting post-project reviewsTranslate operational insights into strategic recommendations for OARS leadershipProvide administrative and operational support, as needed, to OARS projects and initiatives2) System Management (25%)Lead systems-related projects from initiation through implementation, monitoring risks and delivering against milestonesDevelop and maintain centralized systems for equipment and asset tracking, ensuring adherence to maintenance and calibration schedulesImprove and maintain organizational systems for OARS digital platforms and Teams workspaces3) Operational Support & Customer (10%)Serve as primary point of contact for general front desk customer interactions, including fit-tests and supply pickupsManage OARS inbox correspondence and incoming phone callsProvide administrative and operational support, as needed, to OARS projects and initiatives4) Procurement & Contract Management (10%)Manage vendor relationships and contracts related to safety program operations, including invoice oversight and MSA coordinationDevelop and execute procurement strategy to optimize cost, quality, and service delivery5) Engagement & Team Building (5%)Lead centralized onboarding and offboarding processes for co-ops and staffCoordinate end-of-year activities to highlight co-op projects and successesProvide administrative and operational support for team-building activities and retreatsPosition TypeGeneral AdministrationAdditional InformationNortheastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.   All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.Compensation Grade/Pay Type:109SExpected Hiring Range:$67,855.00 - $95,845.00With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.