Job Opportunity: Operations Administrator Marine Science & Technology

About the Job

The operations manager position is responsible for managing the planning and implementation of a marine science and technology initiative (formerly IMaST). This position will run and coordinate all daily operations and strategic planning activities, including developing operational systems, managing fiscal and personnel workflows, and providing project management expertise to establish the institute’s foundation. In addition, the Operations Manager will coordinate with diverse stakeholders, including University leadership, tribal and federal collaborators, and industry partners, while supervising the initiative's task for meetings and the assembly of the final project implementation report.

This is a full-time position with an annual salary range of $89,132 - $142,000, depending on education, qualifications, and experience.

UMN Job Description. Search for Job ID 371906.

Job Duties:

• Operations and Project Management (60%)
  • Responsible for initiating and implementing strategic and operational plans to support and enhance planning of a potential institute.
  • Oversees all aspects of administrative management of an institute that will have complex and diverse education, research, and business operations including multiple partners across the university, government and industry.
  • This position will eventually have multiple direct reports as the institute grows.
  • Lead planning and tracking of institute initiatives and projects; ensure alignment with the strategic goals of the University and the initiative (formerly IMaST).
  • Develop and implement administrative workflows and procedures that improve operational efficiency and accountability.
  • Lead cross-functional projects and implement new systems for data management and reporting.
  • Interpret and apply University policies and procedures to resolve administrative challenges.
  • Develop practical, innovative solutions to technical, financial, and organizational problems
• Communications, Outreach, and Event Planning (25%)
  • Identify and engage with all stakeholders to ensure proper lines of communication are established.
  • Create a plan for all internal and external communications, including website updates, announcements, and stakeholder engagement and coordinate with the relevant communications team.
  • Coordinate event planning, outreach initiatives, and partner communications that advance the mission of the initiative (formerly IMaST), delegating as needed and able to administratively support the initiative's (formerly IMaST) partner departments. Support the initiative's task force in completing their study to provide a framework for the institute.
• Strategic and Executive Support (5%)
  • Coordinate committees, advisory boards, and leadership meetings; prepare agendas, briefings, and records. Serve as a facilitator for stakeholder meetings.
    Create and present status reports, correspondence, and presentations for internal and external audiences.
• Financial Oversight (5%)
  • Review, approve, and oversee financial transactions for compliance with University and funding agency requirements.
  • Collaborate with the task force and financial offices on annual budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.
  • Conduct financial analyses and prepare summaries to inform decision-making and strategic planning; prepares recommendations based on findings.
• Human Resources Administration (5%)
  • Work with the task force to determine hiring and onboarding plans as the initiative (formerly IMaST) moves out of the planning stage and into the implementation phase.
  • Maintain confidential HR records and ensure compliance with University policies and labor agreements.
  • Recommend process improvements in personnel administration to enhance efficiency and employee experience.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree with at least eight years of experience and prior oversight of a small department of cross-disciplinary team.
• Experience in leading complex, interdisciplinary projects.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize multiple tasks, and exercise sound professional judgement.
   

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated success in project and operational management, including developing operational workflows or systems.
• Strong analytical and financial management skills with attention to accuracy and compliance.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, and enterprise financial or HR systems.
• PMP certification.
• Experience in higher education, research administration, or government operations.
• Familiarity with University of Minnesota administrative, financial, and HR systems (EFS, Chrome River, HRMS).
• Experience with federal and state research funding processes.
• Interest in environmental, marine, or freshwater research missions.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and effective collaboration. 
   

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strategic planner with advanced project management and analytical skills.
• Proficient with project management tools (Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, or equivalent).
• Collaborative and adaptive leader who fosters innovation and teamwork.